It emphasizes the value of staff modeling the stability and wholeness they want to teach the kids. Social change is the explicit focus of NAYA s work. NAYA throws open many doors to draw children into the center according to their needs and interests. Tutoring, a hugely popular basketball program, and space to hang attract the kids. A youth leadership development program focuses on job development and community service, building skills for long-term community involvement.
Some young people come to the center searching for their identities.
Others already know who they are and are looking for a place to be together with other Native people, perhaps with the goal of exploring Native spiritual paths. Community members respond by passing on traditions from a variety of tribal backgrounds. The new world of urban Indian culture that NAYA is helping to create is a multicultural one, in conscious rejection of the intra-tribal conflict that is part of the legacy of oppression. In addition, NAYA strives to heal isolation by building connections. The emphasis is on youth as members of their families and a wider community.