In response to a documented 2022 community needs assessment, the need for the development of a tribal youth program is being proposed

The Department of Justice (DOJ) Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) awarded a $483,038 Project Grant under the Tribal Youth Program (CFDA 16.731) to the Chickaloon Native Village, doing business as Chickaloon Village Traditional Council (CVTC), for the development of a Tribal Youth Program. The 5-year project, which began on October 1, 2023, aims to provide opportunities for mentorship, peer support, and restorative justice healing approaches to support healthy tribal citizens and community members. The program will be implemented in response to a documented 2022 community needs assessment identifying the need for youth development initiatives. As a federally recognized Ahtna Dene tribal government, CVTC will utilize the grant funding to create and deliver the Tribal Youth Program, which will likely incorporate traditional cultural practices and values to promote positive youth development.

The implementation of a tribal youth program will provide opportunities for mentorship, peer support, and restorative justice healing approaches, and support healthy tribal citizens and community members.