On June 25, 2025, a special kind of sanctuary celebrated its first anniversary in Portland. khwat yaka haws, meaning “Auntie’s Place” in the Chinook language, has spent the past year redefining what shelter can look like for Indigenous families experiencing homelessness. From the beginning, Auntie’s Place was designed differently. Unlike traditional shelters that often separateView Article >
When a Native grandmother lost her daughter to police violence in Nevada in 2021, her world shattered. After taking leave from her job at Intel to fight for justice, she found herself broke and homeless with her son and grandson, living in their car. “I emailed everybody, I think, everybody that worked here for theView Article >
NAYA is ecstatic to share the news that Paul Lumley, Yakama, has chosen to return to NAYA in an exciting new role as Chief Advancement Officer (CAO). Paul has a proven leadership track record and has played a critical role in growing and strengthening NAYA’s programs. Please join us in welcoming his return! “NAYA andView Article >
As we celebrate Earth Day this month, we are reminded of the deep connection between Land, food, and community. At the NAYA Family Center, we take this opportunity to reflect on the importance of Indigenous Food Sovereignty and the work we do to cultivate Native First Foods in our garden, Wapas Nah Née Shaku. TheseView Article >
Recent news regarding eviction notices at NAYA’s affordable housing properties has raised questions from community members. We share the following facts in hopes of clarifying the situation. The difference between non-payment notices and actual evictions is important. Several residents in NAYA housing have recently received non-payment notices, but most of these notices are resolved withoutView Article >
The Portland Youth and Elders Council (PYEC) began as part of a regional effort to reduce poverty in urban Indian communities, to develop greater community ties and advocate for improving the quality of life for Native Americans in urban areas. January’s PYEC meeting was a meaningful time for reflection and forward-looking conversations. It was aView Article >
On December 14, 2024, the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) celebrated a momentous event in Portland’s cultural landscape — the unveiling of a new public art installation, Raven’s Welcome. This stunning sculpture, created by Terresa White, a Yup’ik and mixed European artist from rural Oregon, stands as a symbol of healing, community, andView Article >
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 findingView Article >
Dear Community, As we process the results of the 2024 presidential election, I know many of us are feeling uncertain and even afraid of what the future holds. Our people have faced incredible challenges time and again, including attempts to erase our existence and culture. Yet, we resist, persevere, and continue to preserve our traditionsView Article >
November is National Native American Heritage Month. In the heart of the Cully Neighborhood in Portland, NAYA plays a vital role in creating a space where Native people can gather to practice culture and traditions that span generations. Through culturally specific programs, services, and events, NAYA fosters a sense of belonging, empowering Native youth and familiesView Article >