Turtle Island Resources

Tag: education

  • Family resources

    Family resources

    Federal & Tribal Programs Supporting Families

    Services for Native Americans (OAA Title VI)

    Grants under the Older Americans Act (Title VI) help tribes deliver nutrition programs, caregiver support, home-based services, and assistance for grandparents raising grandchildren—designed to keep families strong and independent.
    ACL Administration for Community Living

    Administration for Children & Families (ACF) Tribal Programs

    Includes:

    • Tribal TANF — Empowering tribes to design welfare and child welfare programs tailored to family strength.
    • Native Employment Works (NEW) — Supports job readiness and employment services for family providers.
    • Child Care & Development Fund (CCDF) via the Office of Child Care — Financial assistance for quality child care that supports working parents.
    • Office of Child Support Services — Helps enforce child support aligned with tribal values.
    • Head Start (Tribal) — Early education and comprehensive services for Native children and families.
      Administration for Children and Families+1Administration for Children and Families

    Cultural & Community-Based Family Support

    NICWA (National Indian Child Welfare Association)

    Provides vital information and resources related to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), supporting parents, caregivers, and service providers navigating child welfare systems.
    NICWA

    NAPPR – Tribal Home Visiting Program (New Mexico)

    A culturally tailored program offering in-home support to Native families with young children. Services include parenting education, child development guidance, socialization activities, and community resource connection for families up to when their child turns five.
    nappr.org+1

    Division of Indian Work (Minneapolis-area)

    Offers in-home parenting support and education for families involved in child protection, delivered by culturally grounded Parenting Capacity Workers or Cultural Home Educators.
    Division of Indian Work+1

    MINNESOTA INDIAN WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER (MIWRC)

    Focuses on family stabilization by providing parenting education, life skills training, prevention, reunification support, housing, and culturally responsive mental health services.
    miwrc.org

    Minneapolis American Indian Center – Family Services

    Programs include:

    • Early Intervention Program — Offers financial aid for essential needs (rent, utilities, clothing) and cultural activities like field trips and family fun nights.
    • Family Stability Program — Prevents crises with case management, resource referrals, and emergency support for families in Hennepin County.
      Minneapolis American Indian CenterMinneapolis American Indian Center

    NAYA Foster Care Services (Portland, OR)

    Provides culturally appropriate foster care support, independent living programs, and assistance in preserving tribal traditions during family transitions.
    nayapdx.org

    United American Indian Involvement (UAII)

    Offers family preservation services in Los Angeles—including parenting education, peer support, fun family activities, financial literacy, home visits, and access to basic needs like food and school supplies.
    211LA

    Healthcare & Special Needs Family Support

    Family-to-Family Healthcare Information Center for Tribal Communities

    Supports families with special medical needs by helping them navigate health benefits, SSI, telehealth, advocacy skills, workshops, and direct assistance—especially in remote tribal communities.
    parentsreachingout.org

    Community Insights & Peer Perspectives (Reddit Voices)

    “Our community… prevention services offering fun activities (baking, tie-dye, beading kits, workshops). I’m setting up a 10-week prenatal & postnatal support group with culturally connected supports…”
    — A Mi’kmaw organizer building long-term, culturally rooted family engagement
    Reddit

    “MIWRC… provides support groups, family services and housing assistance… healing is at the heart of everything.”
    — Highlighting the power of culturally-grounded services for Native families
    Reddit

    Overview Table

    Resource TypeHighlights
    Federal/Tribal ProgramsTitle VI services, Tribal TANF, Child Care Fund, Head Start
    Family Advocacy & Early YearsNICWA (ICWA support), NAPPR home visiting
    Parenting & Cultural SupportDIW (MN), MIWRC, Minneapolis AIC family programs
    Foster & Youth ServicesNAYA Foster Care (OR)
    Family Services & PreservationUAII (LA), community emergency support
    Healthcare SupportsTribal Family-to-Family Healthcare Center
    Community InsightsReddit feedback on program needs, engagement strategies
  • Native American Children

    Native American Children

    🎓 Education & Scholarships

    • American Indian College Fund – Early Childhood Education
      • Supports early learning programs for Native children.
      • 🔗 College Fund
    • National Indian Education Association (NIEA)
      • Advocates for better education for Native children.
      • 🔗 NIEA
    • American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) – K-12 Programs
      • STEM education programs and mentorship for Native youth.
      • 🔗 AISES K-12
    • Johnson O’Malley (JOM) Program
      • Provides funding for academic support, tutoring, and cultural programs for Native students.
      • 🔗 JOM Program

    Several programs and organizations that provide school supplies and related support for Native American children:

    🎒 1. Running Strong for American Indian Youth® – StudyStrong Program

    • What They Do: Distribute thousands of backpacks filled with essential school supplies to Native American students across tribal communities.
    • Impact: In 2024, they shipped 9,000 backpacks to students, helping them start the school year prepared and confident.
    • How to Access: Schools and tribal organizations can partner with Running Strong to receive these supplies. (StudyStrong…9000 Backpacks for 9000 Students – Indian Youth, Native American Youth Programs)

    📚 2. Partnership With Native Americans (PWNA) – American Indian Education Fund (AIEF)

    • What They Do: Provide backpacks filled with school supplies to Native students, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on families.
    • Impact: Collaborate with program partners to distribute supplies, ensuring students have the necessary tools for academic success.
    • How to Access: Schools and organizations can apply to become program partners with PWNA. (School Supplies Relieve Stress on Native Families – PWNA)

    🏫 3. Johnson O’Malley (JOM) Program – Cherokee Nation

    • What They Do: Offer educational support, including school supplies, to eligible Native American students enrolled in public schools.
    • Impact: Enhance student achievement through academic and cultural education initiatives.
    • How to Access: Families can contact their local JOM coordinator or the Cherokee Nation Education Services for more information. (Johnson O’Malley Program – Cherokee Nation Education Services)

    🛍️ 4. Kids In Need Foundation (KINF)

    • What They Do: Provide free school supplies to teachers in underserved schools, benefiting students in need.
    • Impact: Through their National Network of Resource Centers, teachers can “shop” for supplies to support their classrooms.
    • How to Access: Teachers can find a local Resource Center through the KINF website. (Programs and Initiatives – Kids In Need Foundation)

    🌟 5. Heart of America – Indigenous Initiatives

    • What They Do: Distribute essential resources, including school supplies and art materials, to Native American students and families.
    • Impact: Supported over 10,000 students and families, enhancing learning environments and opportunities.
    • How to Access: Schools and organizations can partner with Heart of America for resource distribution. (Native American Initiatives – Heart of America)

    🏘️ 6. Local Tribal Education Departments

    • What They Do: Many tribal education departments offer programs that provide school supplies and support to Native American students.
    • How to Access: Families should contact their respective tribal education departments to inquire about available resources.

    Note: Availability of programs and resources may vary by location and eligibility criteria. It’s recommended to reach out directly to the organizations or local tribal education departments for the most current information and application procedures.

    🌿 Health & Wellness

    • We R Native – Youth Health & Wellness
      • Provides health, mental wellness, and cultural identity resources.
      • 🔗 We R Native
    • IHS Early Childhood Health Program
    • StrongHearts Native Helpline
      • Support for families and children facing domestic violence.
      • 📞 1-844-7NATIVE (1-844-762-8483)
      • 🔗 StrongHearts

    📖 Cultural & Language Preservation

    • First Nations Development Institute – Language & Culture Revitalization
      • Supports Native language programs for children.
      • 🔗 First Nations
    • Native Languages of the Americas
      • Offers resources to help children learn Indigenous languages.
      • 🔗 Native Languages
    • National Museum of the American Indian – Kids’ Resources
      • Online learning materials about Native cultures and history.
      • 🔗 NMAI Kids

    💡 Child & Family Support

    • Boys & Girls Club of America – Native Services
    • Center for Native American Youth (CNAY)
      • Leadership programs and support for Native youth.
      • 🔗 CNAY
    • Native Wellness Institute
      • Programs focused on mental health, wellness, and family support.
      • 🔗 Native Wellness

    🚀 Fun & Learning Activities

    • Indigenous STEAM
      • Hands-on science, technology, and cultural learning activities for Native kids.
      • 🔗 Indigenous STEAM
    • PBS Kids – Molly of Denali
      • An educational show with Native storytelling and culture.
      • 🔗 Molly of Denali
    • NASA Indigenous Education Resources

    Here are several enriching summer programs and activities available in 2025 for Native American youth, focusing on cultural education, outdoor adventures, STEM, arts, and leadership development:

    🌿 Cultural & Outdoor Adventure Camps

    • Robert Sundance Summer Camp (Los Angeles, CA)
      Hosted by United American Indian Involvement (UAII), this free camp offers activities like horseback riding, archery, swimming, and cultural events for Native youth aged 5–12. Teens aged 13–18 can participate as Counselors in Training. (Robert Sundance Summer Camp for American Indian)
    • Camp Rise (Portland, OR)
      Organized by the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA), Camp Rise is a free program for 2nd–8th graders. Activities include STEAM projects, Indigenous games, archery, hiking, gardening, and cultural arts. (Camp Rise | Native American Youth and Family Center)
    • Camp Tonkawa (Texas)
      This camp explores the traditions of the Tonkawa and other Plains Indian tribes through engaging activities, fostering respect for Native American heritage. (Native American Indian Camp – Camp Tonkawa)

    🧬 STEM & Leadership Programs

    • Summer Youth Practicum (Nationwide)
      Offered by the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society, this program provides high school students (incoming 10th–12th graders) with hands-on experience in natural resource management and Indigenous knowledge. (Summer Youth Practicum – Native American Fish and Wildlife Society)
    • National Native American Youth Initiative (Washington, D.C.)
      Organized by the Association of American Indian Physicians, this program selects AI/AN students aged 16–18 interested in health careers for a week-long experience in Washington, D.C. (National Native American Youth Initiative)
    • IndigeChoice Programs (North Carolina)
      The Lumbee Tribe offers various camps, including Biomedical Camp, Historical Events Camp, and university tours for rising 9th–12th graders, focusing on STEM education and cultural enrichment. (IndigeChoice Programs – Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina)

    🏀 Sports & Cultural Preservation

    🎨 Arts & Cultural Enrichment

    🌱 Additional Resources

    • Association on American Indian Affairs (AAIA)
      AAIA offers funding for summer camps that connect Native youth with cultural experiences while teaching subjects related to physical and emotional well-being. (Association on American Indian Affairs)
    • Seattle Public Schools Native American Education Program (Washington State)
      Provides a comprehensive list of summer camp opportunities for Native students throughout Washington State, including health sciences camps and cultural programs. (Summer Camp Opportunities 2025 – Seattle Public Schools)

    Also consider exploring local tribal organizations, community centers, or educational institutions that may offer or have information on regional programs tailored for Native American youth. Additionally, many national programs offer virtual participation options or travel assistance. Local libraries often offer youth programs and the availability to check out local zoo, aquarium, and other passes for card holders.

  • Education Resources

    Education Resources

    Here are several educational programs specifically designed to support Native American and Indigenous students:

    American Indian College Fund

    • Website: www.collegefund.org
    • Provides scholarships and financial support for Native students pursuing higher education.

    Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)

    • Website: www.bie.edu
    • Supports education initiatives for Native students from early childhood to college.

    Native Forward Scholars Fund (formerly American Indian Graduate Center)

    • Website: www.nativeforward.org
    • Offers scholarships, fellowships, and support for Native students pursuing higher education.In addition to the previously mentioned resources, here are several organizations and programs dedicated to supporting Native American students in their educational pursuits:
      Scholarship Opportunities
      American Indian Services (AIS) Scholarships
      Overview: AIS offers scholarships to Native American students pursuing higher education.
      Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled members of a federally recognized tribe and maintain a minimum GPA as specified by AIS.
      Application Details: Scholarship applications are typically accepted annually; specific deadlines and requirements can be found on their website.
      More Information: American Indian Services
      DAR American Indian Scholarship
      Overview: Offered by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), this scholarship supports Native American students of any age, tribe, and state with financial need.
      Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate financial need and academic achievement.
      Application Details: Applications are typically due by February 15 each year.
      More Information: DAR American Indian Scholarships
      Sallie Mae Native American Scholarships
      Overview: Sallie Mae provides a curated list of scholarships available to Native American students, including the Sallie Mae Scholarship and others.
      Eligibility: Varies by scholarship; generally requires proof of Native American heritage and academic achievement.
      Application Details: Deadlines and award amounts vary; detailed information is available on their website.
      More Information: Sallie Mae Native American Scholarships
      Educational Organizations and Resources
      American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC)
      Overview: Established in 1973, AIHEC represents Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) and provides a support network to influence federal policies on American Indian higher education.
      Services: Advocacy, policy development, and educational support for TCUs.
      More Information: AIHEC
      American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES)
      Overview: AISES supports Indigenous students and professionals in STEM fields through scholarships, internships, and professional development opportunities.
      Services: Educational resources, networking opportunities, and career support in STEM.
      More Information: AISES
      National Indian Education Association (NIEA)
      Overview: Founded in 1969, NIEA advocates for improved educational opportunities for Native students, providing resources and support to educators and communities.
      Services: Policy advocacy, professional development, and educational resources.
      More Information: NIEA
      Office of Indian Education (OIE) – U.S. Department of Education
      Overview: OIE provides leadership and funding to meet the unique educational and culturally related academic needs of American Indians and Alaska Natives.
      Services: Grant programs, policy guidance, and educational resources.
      More Information: Office of Indian Education
      Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)
      Overview: BIE’s mission is to provide quality education opportunities from early childhood through life in accordance with a tribe’s needs for cultural and economic well-being.
      Services: Operates schools, provides scholarships, and supports tribal education departments.
      More Information: Bureau of Indian Education
      Additional Resources
      Native Education Collaborative
      Overview: This initiative connects state education agencies, tribal education agencies, and local education agencies to improve educational outcomes for Native students.
      Services: Provides resources and support for collaborative educational efforts.
      More Information: Native Education Collaborative
      Scholarships.com – Native American Scholarships Overview: A comprehensive directory of scholarships available to Native American students, including eligibility criteria and application deadlines.
      Services: Searchable database of scholarship opportunities.
      More Information: Scholarships.com – Native American Scholarships
      These resources offer a range of support for Native American students, from financial assistance to educational advocacy and professional development. For personalized guidance, consider reaching out to the educational departments of your respective tribe or local educational institutions.

    Here are additional education resources specifically designed to support Native American students and their communities:

    Scholarship Opportunities

    1. Cobell Scholarship
    • Overview: A scholarship fund designed to support Native American students pursuing higher education.
    • Eligibility: Open to enrolled members of federally recognized tribes.
    • More Information: Cobell Scholarship
    1. Indian Health Service (IHS) Scholarship Program
    • Overview: Offers financial support to Native American students pursuing careers in health professions.
    • More Information: IHS Scholarship Program
    1. Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF) Scholarships
    1. Catch the Dream Scholarship
    • Overview: Provides financial assistance to Native American students to achieve their educational goals.
    • More Information: Catch the Dream

    STEM Programs

    1. Indigenous Education, Inc.
    • Overview: Focuses on supporting Native American students in STEM fields. Offers mentoring, scholarships, and internships.
    • More Information: Indigenous Education, Inc.
    1. NASA’s Tribal Colleges and Universities Program (TCUP)
    • Overview: Provides grants and research opportunities for Native students in science and technology.
    • More Information: NASA TCUP

    College Access and Readiness Programs

    1. College Horizons
    • Overview: A nonprofit organization that provides college and graduate admissions workshops for Native American students.
    • More Information: College Horizons
    1. Pathways to College Network
    • Overview: Offers resources and support for Native students preparing for higher education.
    • More Information: Pathways to College Network

    Cultural and Language Programs

    1. Language Revitalization Programs
    • Overview: Federal and state programs aimed at preserving Native languages and cultures through education.
    • More Information: Check with the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) or local tribal councils.
    1. Native American Language Grants

    Resources for Teachers and Educators

    1. National Indian Education Association (NIEA)
      • Overview: Provides resources, advocacy, and support for educators working with Native students.
      • More Information: NIEA
    2. Teach For America’s Native Alliance Initiative
      • Overview: Partners with tribal communities to recruit educators for Native students.
      • More Information: Teach For America

    Additional Scholarship Search Tools

    1. Native American Scholarships Search Database
      • Overview: A free tool for identifying scholarships and grants for Native students.
      • More Information: Scholarships.com
    2. Fastweb Scholarships for Native Americans
      • Overview: A database of scholarships specifically for Native American students.
      • More Information: Fastweb

    Online Tutoring Services

    1. Indigenous Tutoring & Mentoring Program (ITMP)
      A volunteer-run organization offering free remote tutoring and mentoring to Indigenous students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 across Canada.
    2. Indspire’s Free Online Tutoring
      Provides personalized online tutoring to Indigenous high school students in Grades 9 through 12.
    3. Chapter One Canada
      Offers free virtual one-to-one reading tutoring for First Nations and Inuit children through Jordan’s Principle.

    Community and School-Based Programs

    1. American Indian Education Program – San Juan Unified School District
      Provides free after-school tutoring services at several school sites, along with cultural events and resources for students and teachers.
    2. Eagle Feather Tutoring Program – Colorado State University
      Offers free in-person tutoring services open to all CSU students, with a focus on supporting Native American students.
    3. Anishnabeg Outreach’s Tutoring & Sports Program
      Supports self-identifying Indigenous youth from Kindergarten to Grade 12 seeking additional academic support.

    University-Based Support

    1. University of New England (UNE) – Oorala Aboriginal Centre
      Provides Indigenous students with tutors to help them excel in their university studies.
    2. Simon Fraser University – Indigenous Tutoring & Mentoring Program
      Offers free tutoring and mentoring to Indigenous students both on and off-reserve, aiming to close educational gaps.

    Specialized Programs

    1. Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s ACE Program
      Provides free online tutoring through the Accessing Choices in Education (ACE) Program for any tribal-affiliated student within the MCN jurisdiction.
    2. Free Online Math Tutoring for Native American Students
      Offered by the Chicago Public Schools American Indian Education Program, providing education services to Native American students within the CPS system.

    These programs are dedicated to supporting Native American and Indigenous students in their academic journeys. For more localized services, consider reaching out to your school’s counseling office or local educational organizations, as they may offer additional resources tailored to your specific needs.