Youth Program
Our mission is to enrich the lives of native youth and the Tribe through traditions that teach respect, honor and culture by connecting them to the Elders, Cowlitz Tribal people, history, traditions and culture of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe.
Program Eligibility
Youth between the age of 7-17 years old, enrolled in the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and/or direct descendent of a currently enrolled parent. Youth living in the same household, the family joined by marriage and/or adoption with a parent currently enrolled in the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. Youth enrolled or direct descendent of a Federally Recognized Tribe currently receiving services from the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. Employees of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe direct children.
The purpose of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe Youth Council (CITYC) is to foster future generations of strong leaders while honoring culture, tradition, and language; and to promote mental and physical well-being of Cowlitz youth. The CITYC strives to act as a voice while modeling positive attitudes and behavior for Cowlitz youth. CITYC also serves as an ambassador for Cowlitz youth when youth issues are being discussed. The CITYC ensure youth have input with the Cowlitz Youth Board leadership on decisions and policies, guidance on strategic planning, and visioning for the future. The council also works to bring innovative ideas and opportunities to generations of Cowlitz People.
- Attend at least two (2) Tribal Council Meetings yearly.
- Attend monthly Youth Council Meetings, including activities.
- Attend November and June General Council Meetings.
- Agree to serve a complete 2-year term.
- Adhere to deadlines and turn in all paperwork and forms on time.
- Actively participate in Tribal projects, peer discussions, and Youth Program Events.
- Youth Council also plays an advisory role to the Cowlitz Youth Board leadership
- Be a positive influence on friends and community
- Maintain acceptable academic standing, and healthy life choices.
- Behave appropriately as you will be a youth representative of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe.
- Travel to youth conferences and various trainings.
- Report to the Cowlitz Indian Tribe Youth Program and Youth Council Advisor.
First to apply you must meet our elgibility requirements.
- Youth who are enrolled members of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and/or direct descendants of a currently enrolled Member.
- Youth between the ages 13-17.
- Completed application mailed to Cowlitz Youth Program.
Before you apply, please read and understand the duties, and all the eligibility requirements.
https://www.cowlitz.org/docs/Cowlitz_Youth_Council_Application_Form_2020.pdf
Complete and date all required documents and mail the application to the address below.
ATT: Youth Council Adviser
P.O. Box 164
Toledo WA 98591
*Emailed, faxed or hand-delivered applications will NOT be accepted - NO exceptions.
All applicants will receive notice when and if they are selected
OnTrack is a free resource for high school students to prepare them for post-secondary education and help them navigate the application process and financial aspects of their education. There are video curriculums for students in grades 9-12 and an online workshop series for students in grades 7-12. Workshops are currently being scheduled for late Spring and early Summer 2020. Online curriculums have no capacity limitations.
You are not alone. There are adults who care. If you are a child or teenager in crisis and need help immediately, please consult one of the following toll-free national hotlines or contact your local police or emergency services. All hotlines are free.
- Boys Town National Hotline 1.800.448.3000
Crisis and support line for children, youth and their parents, 24/7 and Spanish available. Multi-topic and issue assistance. - Childhelp 1.800.4ACHILD
Provides 24/7 assistance in 170 languages to adults, children and youth with information and questions regarding child abuse. All calls are anonymous and confidential. - National Runaway Safeline 1.800.RUNAWAY
Crisis line for youth thinking about running away, for youth already on the run and for adults worried about a runaway. 24/7 help available. - Loveisrespect.org 1.800.331.9474
Peer advocates are available 24/7 to support teens with concerns about dating violence. Chat available thru their website, or text loveis to 22522. -
Trevor Project Lifeline 1.866.488.7386
Provides 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth. -
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1.800.273.TALK
Support and assistance 24/7 for anyone feeling depressed, overwhelmed or suicidal.
Cowlitz Youth Program
Office Hours
M - F | 8 am - 5 pm