A Feasibility Evaluation of the Urban Native Youth Leaders Program.

Abstract

Urban American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth represent a unique and growing population in the United States. Culture and participation in cultural activities is associated with resilience; however, urban AI/AN youth often report limited access to their culture. This paper presents results from a mixed-method feasibility evaluation of the Native Youth Leaders (NYL) program, a culturally-grounded youth program for urban AI youth. The NYL feasibility evaluation sought to answer two questions: (1) is the NYL program feasible and appropriate and (2) what are urban AI youth perspectives on the NYL program? Results indicate the NYL program was feasible and appropriate for urban AI youth. Recommendations may be useful to other tribal organizations as they design and implement culture-based programs for urban AI youth.