Native American Youth and Family Center

The Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) operates a comprehensive network of over 40 culturally-specific programs serving the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area's Native American community. NAYA provides wraparound services spanning the entire lifespan, from infant care through elder support, designed to foster healing, cultural connection, and strong community relationships. Their service offerings include youth education support and afterschool programs, early childhood Head Start and preschool services, elder activities and meals programs, housing stabilization and rental assistance, college and career preparation including FAFSA and scholarship support, foster care services with independent living programs, Many Nations Academy high school, and food and clothing assistance. Each program is grounded in cultural empowerment and traditional tribal values, addressing critical community needs including education, family stability, housing security, and workforce development. NAYA's approach integrates youth-centered, family-driven, and elder-guided principles throughout all services. The organization operates with a commitment to eliminating poverty, hunger, family violence, and homelessness while building economic security for Native families across the Portland region. With more than 50 years of community leadership since its founding in 1974, NAYA continues to expand and modernize its services to meet evolving community needs while sustaining diverse tribal traditions and cultural practices.