The yakama nation is dedicated to strengthening families and empowering youth through a combination of direct support and preventative interventions

The Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs Bureau of Justice Assistance awarded the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation $100,000 on October 1, 2025, under the Tribal Youth Program (CFDA 16.731) to strengthen families and empower youth through direct support and preventative interventions.

The recipient will deliver parenting programs designed to improve communication, conflict resolution, and family cohesion, equipping parents with strategies to strengthen relationships with their children and create stable home environments. The award also funds youth programming including sports, arts, and on-the-job training, and establishes a mentorship program modeled after Big Brothers Big Sisters that pairs youth with adult mentors to provide consistent support, guidance, and encouragement.

Performance occurs in Toppenish, Washington, with a period of performance from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2030. The Tribal Youth Program supports activities to prevent and reduce juvenile delinquency, support services related to tribal youth healing to wellness courts, and strengthen the juvenile justice system response for American Indian and Alaska Native youth.

This initiative focuses on meeting the needs of families experiencing hardship by providing essential goods, while also delivering programs that foster positive family dynamics and healthy relationships. The yakama nation seeks to expand its preventative efforts by implementing accessible parenting programs designed to improve communication, conflict resolution, and overall family cohesion. These programs will equip parents with the tools and strategies needed to strengthen their relationships with their children and create healthier, more stable home environments. The project will also develop youth programming that includes sports, arts, and on-the-job training. A key feature of this initiative is the establishment of a mentorship program modeled after "big brothers big sisters," pairing youth with caring adult mentors who will provide consistent support, guidance, and encouragement. Through these relationships, young people will be empowered to make healthy life choices, build self-esteem, and avoid negative behaviors. Conference activity description: n/a