Indigenous Youth Afterschool Program Support System

We are reclaiming our knowledge and sharing a more Indigenized, heart-centered practice with our youth. We listen to our bodies, honor the land, and protect our culture. Our goal is to support every child in becoming their truest, freest selves—rooted in wellness, joy, and community.

We believe in building a just and free community where every child has the opportunity to thrive. To make our afterschool program accessible to all Black, Native, and Indigenous youth—regardless of financial circumstances—we invite you to join us as a Sustaining Member of our co-op.

By becoming a monthly donor, you directly support sponsored care for youth and single-parent families who need it most. Your ongoing contribution helps us provide equitable access, nurture future leaders, and strengthen our community support systems.

Together, we can ensure that every child has a place to grow, connect, and celebrate their heritage.

Ready to make a difference?
Become a monthly donor today and help us create a more inclusive, empowered future for our youth.

HEART & TLC
Heritage
Empowerment
Attunement
Rooted
Together
Teaching
Love
Care

Heritage:
We honor and celebrate the cultural heritage of our youth by integrating traditional stories, art, language, and practices into daily activities. Elders and cultural leaders are invited to share wisdom, ensuring that ancestral knowledge is passed down and kept alive.

Empowerment:
Our curriculum is designed to uplift every child’s voice, nurture leadership skills, and encourage self-expression. Youth are given opportunities to lead projects, make choices in their learning, and see themselves reflected in the curriculum.

Attunement:
We teach youth to listen to their bodies, emotions, and each other. Mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and healthy relationship practices are woven into daily routines, helping children build self-awareness and empathy.

Rooted:
We create a sense of belonging by connecting youth to the land, their community, and their own identities. Activities like gardening, plant art, and land stewardship help children feel grounded and connected to their roots.

Together:
Community is at the heart of everything we do. Families, mentors, and youth collaborate in shaping the program, and we foster teamwork through group projects, drum circles, and community service, building a strong support network.

Teaching:
We provide holistic, culturally-responsive education that goes beyond academics. Our teaching methods are hands-on, creative, and adaptive to each child’s learning style, ensuring that every youth is engaged and inspired.

Love:
Every interaction is guided by compassion, respect, and genuine care. We create a safe, nurturing environment where children feel valued, accepted, and free to be themselves.

Care:
We support the well-being of each child through self-care practices, nutritious meals, wellness activities, and attentive mentorship. Our care extends to families and the broader community, ensuring everyone feels supported and uplifted.

Find out more about our indigenous youth program at HeartfulRootz.org