Cherokee nation proposes to enhance and expand its existing youth healing to wellness court with an overarching goal of assisting tribal youth who are battling against substance and/or alcohol use…

The Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs Bureau of Justice Assistance awarded Cherokee Nation $400,000 on October 1, 2025, under the Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program (CFDA 16.585) to enhance and expand its existing Youth Healing to Wellness Court serving tribal youth struggling with substance and alcohol use disorders within the Cherokee Nation reservation.

The award funds retention of a Youth Healing to Wellness Court Coordinator and support services to help youth reconnect with their culture, family, and community while pursuing recovery. Project activities include immersing youth in Cherokee Nation culture, reducing family conflict, increasing family connection and protective factors, and promoting community connection. Successful outcomes will be measured through data demonstrating abstinence from substance use.

The recipient is Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribal government based in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Performance takes place in Tahlequah. The period of performance runs from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2030. The assistance type is a Project Grant.

Cherokee nation proposes to enhance and expand its existing youth healing to wellness court with an overarching goal of assisting tribal youth who are battling against substance and/or alcohol use within the cherokee nation reservation. Project activities include immersing youth in their culture, reducing family conflict, increasing family connection, increasing protective factors, and promoting community connection. Successful outcomes will include retaining a youth healing to wellness court coordinator, and supporting youth in recovery so they reconnect with their culture, family, and community. Recovery will be evidenced through data that demonstrate abstinence from substance use.