MHA Champions for Change

The Tribal Education Department is partnering with the Casey Family Programs and the Center for Native American Youth to offer the MHA Champions for Change youth leadership program. We are have extended our deadline and will be accepting applications and nominations until Friday, May 18th. If you know an outstanding MHA youth (ages 14-23) in one of the segments or Bismarck/Mandan, please encourage them to apply or nominate them!  Please contact Ruth Swaney with any questions at 701-627-4113 or rswaney@mhanation.com.

The MHA Champions for Change program is a Native youth leadership initiative designed to highlight positive stories of impact from the MHA Nation. The program is modeled after the Center for Native American Youth’s Champions for Change program that was inspired by a 2011 White House initiative, which develops young Native leaders through experience-based learning and tailored advocacy training.

The MHA will select seven inspirational Native youth (one from each segment and one from Bismarck/Mandan, ages 14-23) to join the CFC leadership network. All applicants, regardless of acceptance, are named Youth Ambassadors. Champions are Native youth who initiate programs, events, or other efforts that are improving the lives of fellow youth in Indian Country. Champions enter a close working relationship with the MHA Education Department and the Center for Native American Youth benefit from a variety of resources that enhance their advocacy skills. (EXTENDED DEADLINE: May 18, 2018. All application materials must be submitted to MHA Education Department, 404 Frontage Rd, New Town, ND 58763)
A complete application will include the following:

  • Youth Leader Application (with essay attached)
  • Two Recommendation forms from Adults familiar with your work
  • One Peer Recommendation form completed by someone around your age who can speak to your leadership.

MHA Champions for Change Youth Leader Application

MHA Champions for Change Peer Nomination Form

MHA Champions for Change Adult Recommendation/Nomination Form