Envisioning the Next 50 Years: A Call to Action for Community Engagement
As we look back on five decades of dedicated service to the Native American community, the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) is filled with gratitude, pride, and a renewed sense of purpose. Celebrating 50 years of empowerment, cultural connection, and advocacy, NAYA has transformed the lives of countless individuals, from Native youth finding their path to leadership to families securing stable housing and thriving in our vibrant community.
Founded in 1974 by passionate parents and community members, NAYA’s mission has always been clear: to uplift Native youth and strengthen Native families through education, cultural enrichment, and community support. While much has been accomplished, the challenges facing our community are far from over. Yet, as we reflect on our past and look to the future, we see tremendous opportunities for growth, healing, and progress.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Opportunity
NAYA’s journey from humble beginnings—meeting in basements and community centers—to becoming a cornerstone of Native American support in the Portland area is a testament to the strength of our community and the enduring vision of those who have come before us. Today, NAYA impacts the lives of more than 10,000 individuals annually with services that span youth education, housing, economic development, family support, and cultural programs.
The stories of individuals like Tawna Sanchez, who rose from a struggling teen to become a respected Oregon State Legislator, and Will Miller, who grew from a youth participant to the Executive Director of the NAYA Action Fund, illustrate the profound and lasting impact of NAYA’s programs. These stories are not isolated; they reflect the broader mission of NAYA to nurture leadership, self-determination, and cultural pride. They are the embodiment of our commitment to Native youth and families, and the proof that our work is making a real difference in the lives of those we serve.
We also acknowledge that the journey ahead is filled with both challenges and exciting possibilities. The need for stable housing, access to education, and community-driven economic opportunities remains critical. However, there is an exciting momentum within the Native American community in Portland—a desire to build a more just and equitable future for our children and grandchildren.
Shaping the Future Together
NAYA’s work is rooted in the belief that when Native communities thrive, everyone benefits. That’s why our efforts are focused on more than just addressing immediate needs; we’re also looking ahead—toward a future where our Native youth grow into strong, empowered leaders who carry forward the values of cultural heritage, family, and community.
In 2024, as we mark NAYA’s 50th anniversary, we are doubling down on our vision for the next generation. We are expanding our programs, strengthening our partnerships, and investing in initiatives that will have lasting impacts on the lives of Native American youth and families.
Our upcoming projects reflect our deep commitment to cultural preservation and community resilience. We are investing in the development of NAYA’s building and property situated on Neerchokikoo, a historic Chinook cultural space along the Columbia River, and expanding our services into Southwest Washington to serve more families in need. In Portland, we are infusing Indigeneity into the Cully neighborhood with a focus on Native representation, cultural expression, and community-centered development. These efforts are not just about creating a better future—they are about honoring our shared heritage and building a legacy for the generations to come.
However, to achieve this vision, we need the support of the entire community. Together, we can ensure that the next 50 years of NAYA’s work will be even more impactful than the last. Together, we can empower our Native youth to lead, to dream big, and to achieve their fullest potential.
Join NAYA’s Monthly Giving Circle: A Powerful Way to Make a Difference
As we continue to build an abundant future, we invite you to be a part of this transformative journey. One of the most meaningful ways to support NAYA and its mission is through our Monthly Giving Circle. Your recurring donation provides a steady and reliable source of funding that allows NAYA to plan and budget for its programs more effectively.
With 2024 marking NAYA’s 50th anniversary, we have set a goal to welcome 50 new monthly donors to join our Monthly Giving Circle in celebration of this milestone. When you become a monthly donor, you are directly contributing to the sustainability of programs that empower Native youth, support families, and strengthen our community. Your support helps ensure that NAYA can continue to offer the vital services that our community members rely on.
NAYA’s work is more than just a set of programs—it reflects our shared values and commitment to building a community where every Native person can realize their dreams. Whether it’s securing affordable housing, providing culturally responsive education, or fostering leadership in the next generation, every donation makes a tangible impact.
Through the generosity of supporters like you, NAYA has been able to expand its reach and deepen its impact. But there is still so much more to be done. We need your support to continue this important work and ensure that NAYA remains a place of resilience and empowerment for Native American families in Portland and beyond.
Join us as we embark on the next chapter of NAYA’s legacy. Become a part of our Monthly Giving Circle and help us celebrate 50 years of impact by ensuring 50 more years of growth, opportunity, and empowerment. Your monthly donation—of any amount—will make a lasting difference in the lives of Native youth and families. Together, we can create an abundant future for all.