The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians Native Nations Youth Council continues to make a strong impact throughout Michigan and the Midwest Region through youth-led service, cultural preservation and community-centered wellness initiatives. Representing the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, the council’s active membership of more than 30 youth brought leadership, energy and care to events throughout 2025, strengthening connections across Tribal communities while honoring Potawatomi traditions and values.
A highlight of the year was the council’s Annual Round Dance on March 1, 2025, in Dowagiac, Michigan. Centered on Mental Wellness, the gathering welcomed approximately 300 attendees for an evening of song, dance and community. Through ceremonial protocols and the participation of invited singers, local Tribal members and guests from across the nation came together to honor ancestors, share in celebration and strengthen community through culture. The event created meaningful space for intergenerational connection while uplifting traditions that continue to bring people together.
The youth council also led projects focused on cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. On October 4, youth members launched the Tribal Graveyard Headstone Restoration Project at Rush Lake Cemetery in Hartford, Michigan. Guided by collaboration with the Tribal Historian, youth began restoring historical headstones while researching the stories and histories connected to each individual. Their work will continue through the creation of short films highlighting the lives and legacies represented in the cemetery—an important effort rooted in Spiritual Wellness and community remembrance. That same day, the council completed an Adopt-a-Highway Clean Up in Dowagiac, collecting more than 30 large bags of trash across a two-mile stretch of roadway. The project supported Physical Wellness while demonstrating care for the land and a commitment to protecting shared spaces.
Community outreach remained a major focus throughout the fall. On October 31, 2025, the youth council organized Tribal Community Villages Trick or Treating across Tribal communities in Dowagiac, Hartford, Paw Paw and Watervliet, Michigan, as well as South Bend, Indiana. Reaching approximately 400 community members, youth purchased and distributed more than 200 bags of candy to families living in Tribal housing communities. The effort created safe and welcoming spaces for children and families while strengthening relationships across communities and supporting Social Wellness.
Looking ahead, the Pokagon Band Native Nations Youth Council shared interest in additional training around communication and navigating change within Tribal, local, state and national governments. Their commitment to learning, service and leadership continues to reflect UNITY’s mission by empowering Native youth to lead with purpose while honoring culture and strengthening community. Through every project—from preserving history to serving families and creating spaces for celebration—the Pokagon Band youth council continues to build a strong future grounded in tradition, leadership and connection.
