Two Feathers Native American Family Services is excited to share our highlights from May, 2025 youth programming!
ACORN: MIS #5
On May 4th, we wrapped up our final ACORN series event at Big Lagoon, centered around the theme Nurturing Nature and Spirit. Despite the strong winds, the day was full of joy, connection, and outdoor fun. Humboats provided kayaks for water adventures, and Big Lagoon Rancheria shared their beautiful redwood canoes. On land, we made the most of the breeze with kite flying, gathered around a fire for s’mores, and enjoyed bike rides led by the awesome MBTTA crew. A special thank you to Brandon Duran for his engaging presentation and for weaving in a perfect Star Wars touch to celebrate May the 4th Be With You!
Young Bucks & Youth Ambassador Brush Dance Demonstration
On May 2nd, our Young Bucks group, along with some of our youth ambassadors, had the honor of performing a Brush Dance demonstration at United Indian Health Services for the California Rural Indian Health Board’s Traditional Indian Health Gathering.
It was incredibly moving to witness some of our young people dress and dance in the house for the very first time. All their dedication and practice truly showed—there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
Many participants shared how powerful the demonstration was, calling it one of the highlights of their weekend and expressing deep pride in our youth. We’re just as proud and look forward to more opportunities to support them in sharing their culture and preparing for Brush Dances this summer.
Keep up the amazing work, Young Bucks!
Young Bucks Programming
A big thank you and shoutout to our friend Jonny Riggs from the Parks Department at Sumeg Village for an incredible hazel burning demonstration!
Our Young Bucks had the opportunity to learn about the process firsthand—burning hazel and twisting it into ties used for redwood plank houses. It was hands-on, meaningful, and a great way to connect with traditional knowledge.
We’re excited to continue this important work with Jonny out at the village throughout the summer!
Youth Ambassador 2024/2025 Wrap Up!
We’re thrilled to share that our 2024/2025 Youth Ambassador Cohort has officially wrapped—and what an incredible year it’s been! 🎉
Over the past twelve months, 34 outstanding youth participated in our yearlong leadership program, growing into confident leaders, developing vital life and job skills, and creating lasting impact in their communities. They built strong peer relationships and mentoring bonds with staff, spoke on panels to advocate for Native youth, shared resources at local events, and took leading roles in organizing and supporting key community celebrations—including the Halloween Block Party & Spooky Walk, Hoopa Community Dinner, Easter Celebration, and more. We are so proud of each and every one of them.
This year, our Youth Ambassadors gained essential skills such as:
- Resume building
- Interviewing & conflict resolution
- CPR & First Aid certification
- Financial literacy
- Food handler certification
Wailaki Big Time Brush Dance Demonstration
On May 31st, some of our Young Bucks and Youth Ambassadors participated in a Brush Dance demonstration at the Eel River Wailaki Second Annual Big Time.
It was truly inspiring to watch our youth step up, represent their roots, and embrace who they are with pride. A few danced in the circle for the very first time, and one of our youth even jumped center for the first time—a powerful moment for everyone there.
Their dedication is clear: practice is paying off, and the progress is beautiful to witness. We’re so proud of their hard work and heart. Until next time, keep it up, youngsters—you’re doing amazing things!