Training Teaches How to Develop a Community Youth Organization
On January 23-24, 2008, community representatives, tribal leaders, and Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) with an interest in starting a community youth organization in Indian Country gathered in Catoosa, Oklahoma for a two-day workshop. This training was designed to provide attendees with the education and tools necessary to successfully open and operate a community youth organization in their community. Inclement weather across the country delayed the arrival of some of our attendees, but certainly didn’t dampen their spirits.
The first day of training began with the history and scope of the HUD/ONAP Boys & Girls Club Initiative including a step-by-step overview for starting and operating a Boys & Girls Club in Indian Country and continued with a summary of the role of the BGCA Regional Service Director, the Native American National Advisory Committee (NANAC), and BGCA resources and funding opportunities. Maggie Gurley, Chief Professional Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Green Country, highlighted BGCA core program areas and shared her experiences implementing these programs. Targeted Initiatives in Indian Country including the National Native American Mentoring Program and the Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.) Program were also discussed. Later in the afternoon, attendees were treated to a virtual tour of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tahlequah, OK, guided by Janice Randall, Chief Professional Officer.
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The second training day kicked off with a discussion outlining the support available through HUD/ONAP and presentations by representatives from various community youth organizations. The youth organizations represented at the workshop included: Boys & Girls Clubs, Boy Scouts, UNITY, and Police Athletic/Activities League. Participants took part in an enthusiastic question and answer session allowing speakers to address concerns specific to individual communities. An afternoon site visit to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Green Country gave attendees the chance to witness a successful Native Club unit in operation.
Throughout the training, participants had the opportunity to gain valuable insight from experienced professionals and first-hand knowledge from other attendees who are interested in starting, or are in the process of opening a community youth organization. Attendees left the training with a greater understanding of the necessary requirements to successfully start and support youth development programs in Indian Country.
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