Two Feathers Native American Family Services is excited to share our highlights from June, 2025 youth programming!
New 2025/2026 Youth Leadership Development Program Cohort
We’re thrilled to welcome 34 high school youth and 14 transitional-aged young leaders into our Youth Ambassador Program! This inspiring group will spend the year building leadership and job-readiness skills through powerful cultural experiences, wellness and healing workshops, college and career exploration, and hands-on community advocacy. The journey starts now—and the impact will be lasting!
Rainbow Extravaganza 2025
The 5th year of the Rainbow Extravaganza in Hoopa, California marks a powerful milestone—not only as a celebration of Two Spirit/LGBTQ+ people but as a testament to the strength of community, consistency, and cultural resilience. In a rural area where such visibility is vital, the continued presence of this event underscores the importance of creating safe, affirming spaces year after year. Each annual gathering reinforces a sense of belonging, uplifts queer voices, and nurtures intergenerational connections. Longevity in events like the Rainbow Extravaganza is more than tradition—it’s a declaration of endurance, love, and the right to thrive, reminding everyone that pride is not a moment, but a movement rooted deeply in community.
The first Rainbow Extravaganza in 2021 came into existence through youth voices and advocacy. As the years have progressed we have grown in support with collaboration from Queer Humboldt and many gratuitous and caring community at KTJUSD and beyond. We hope that this event and spaces like it continue in these times and that we can all grow stronger as a community together.
“Swimming Against the Current” 2025 KTJUSD Fish Fair Collaboration
On Friday, June 6th, the Klamath-Trinity Joint Unified School District, Hoopa Fisheries, and Two Feathers Native American Family Services proudly hosted the 21st Annual Fish Fair, themed “Swimming Against the Current.” Nearly 700 students joined over 100 professionals, educators, and community members for a vibrant day of laughter, curiosity, and hands-on learning.
The event began with an opening ceremony led by two new members of the Fish Fair committee: Justin Alvarez, Deputy Director of Hoopa Fisheries, and Rachel Fusi, Outreach and Events Manager for Two Feathers. During the ceremony, we honored Leroy and Teresa Cyr for their 20 years of dedication to this annual event, and shared our commitment—through Hoopa Fisheries and Two Feathers—to continue their legacy for years to come.
Following this, the committee welcomed Hoopa Police Lieutenant Issac Bussel, who offered a traditional opening prayer to start the day. Keynote speaker Danielle Frank of Rios to Rivers then delivered an inspiring message about youth activism, sharing her team’s upcoming kayak descent of the now free-flowing Klamath River, set to begin in early June.
We are deeply grateful for the continued support and thrilled to see so many smiling faces at this year’s Fish Fair. Here’s to 21 years of celebrating fish, culture, and community!
Youth Ambassadors Take on UNITY!
Fifteen of our Youth Ambassadors and seven staff members had the incredible opportunity to attend the nation’s largest Native youth leadership conference—UNITY—in sunny San Diego, California! Surrounded by hundreds of passionate young leaders from across the country, our youth were inspired, empowered, and equipped with new tools to lead change in their own communities. Beyond the workshops and powerful conversations, we made unforgettable memories—soaking up the sun at the beach, exploring the city, and tasting some amazing local eats!
Young Bucks
On June 9, we proudly celebrated the completion of another successful cycle of the Young Bucks program with an end-of-cycle gathering and traditional salmon cook.
This special event served as a meaningful opportunity to honor the young men who participated in the program, recognizing their growth, commitment, and the cultural teachings they embraced throughout the cycle. The salmon cook, rooted in tradition, symbolized community, resilience, and shared values—offering both nourishment and reflection as we closed this chapter together.
We extend our gratitude to the families, mentors, and community members who continue to support the Young Bucks. We look forward to the continued journey of leadership, identity, and cultural connection in the cycles ahead.
Big Lagoon Summer Camp
Our ur team had the privilege of supporting Big Lagoon Summer Camp, where youth gathered for an unforgettable week filled with cultural learning, outdoor adventure, and community building.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Big Lagoon, the camp provided a unique opportunity for youth to reconnect with nature, culture, and one another. Our team offered hands-on support throughout the week—from leading traditional beading workshops to facilitating games and activities that encouraged teamwork, laughter, and new friendships.
One of the most memorable highlights was fishing along the lagoon’s edge, where youth had a chance to slow down, practice patience, and celebrate their catches—some for the very first time. We also joined in paddling the Redwood dugout canoes, offering a powerful reminder of the deep traditions and histories that continue to shape and guide our communities today.
Through every shared meal, story, and song, the spirit of connection was clear. We are honored to have played a role in supporting this camp and creating space where youth could explore identity, strengthen cultural pride, and simply enjoy the beauty of summer.
Sue-Meg Brush Dance Wood Gathering
Our interns had the chance to help prepare for the Sumeg Brush Dance. They spent the day out on the land gathering wood that would be used for ceremony.
It was hard work, but they showed up with great energy and a willingness to help however they could. It wasn’t just about hauling wood but it was about supporting a tradition that’s been carried for generations. For many of the interns, this was their first time being part of something like this, and they got to witness firsthand how much care and preparation goes into these ceremonies.
Being out at Sumeg Village, surrounded by redwoods and culture, offered time for reflection, learning, and connection. We’re so proud of the way our interns represented themselves and our program; with respect, humility, and heart.
These are the kinds of experiences that stick with you and remind us all why it matters to keep showing up for culture and community.