A letter from BGCA National Vice President, Native Services Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
Today, we celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, honoring the rich histories and lasting contributions of Indigenous peoples across the United States. At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we are proud to recognize the strength, resilience and leadership of Native communities and the profound impact they have on our nation and the next generations.
For thousands of years, Indigenous peoples have been caretakers of the land, protecting the future while respecting the past. Across more than 600 federally and state-recognized Tribes, Native Nations continue to preserve unique languages, traditions and ways of life that enrich our collective understanding of identity, stewardship and belonging. Their wisdom and heritage inspire us to be better neighbors and stronger partners.
As we celebrate these achievements, we also recognize the resilience of Indigenous peoples who have endured generations of challenges while continuing to protect and strengthen their cultures. Today, Native Nations are leading with innovation, determination and pride, creating brighter futures.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we are committed to standing alongside Tribal communities and supporting Native youth through safe, welcoming spaces where identity and opportunity thrive. Through Native Services, we work with Clubs across Indian Country to create pathways that help young people reach their full potential while honoring the traditions and values that make each of them unique.
Since opening our first Club on Native lands in 1992, Boys & Girls Clubs of America currently serves more than 100,000 American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian and American Samoan youth annually through approximately 260 Clubs in Indigenous communities. Together, we are helping Native youth develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to succeed.
This commitment comes to life through the 2026 Native Summit theme: Be Better, Be Bigger, Be Bolder. It’s a call to increase our collective impact, expand opportunities and boldly invest in the future of Native youth. That spirit will be on full display at the 2026 Native Summit, taking place November 17-19 in Orlando, Florida, where Native Club professionals from across the network will gather to share knowledge, celebrate wins, strengthen Native youth programs and learn from one another.
Together, we can honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day not only as a moment of recognition, but as a commitment to action. By being better partners, building bigger opportunities and taking bolder steps forward, we can help ensure every Native young person has the chance to achieve a great future.
Woliwoni (many thanks),
Carla Knapp
National Vice President, Native Services
Boys & Girls Clubs of America