The Center for Native American Youth

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About The Center for Native American Youth

The Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) at the Aspen Institute is a national education and advocacy organization based in Washington, DC, dedicated to improving the health, safety, and overall well-being of Native youth ages 24 and under. Operating across reservations, rural villages, and urban spaces throughout the country, CNAY delivers culturally-responsive programs and curriculum designed to empower Native youth as change agents in their communities.

CNAY's comprehensive service model incorporates Indigenous knowledge systems, evidence-based research, and youth-led initiatives. The organization provides leadership training that develops youth competencies while maintaining cultural integrity, creates youth-led policy agendas that amplify Native voices in advocacy spaces, and produces strategic narratives that center Native youth experiences and perspectives. Through cross-sector programming, CNAY ensures that Native youth have access to knowledge, skills, and resources necessary for personal growth and community leadership.

The organization's research and data initiatives prioritize Indigenous best-practices and provide broad access to information reflecting Native youth experiences from across the country. CNAY also facilitates media partnerships that serve as platforms for Native youth to share their authentic stories and truths. By combining education, advocacy, and culturally-immersive methodologies, CNAY works to ensure all Native youth lead full and healthy lives with equal access to opportunity and the ability to draw strength from their culture.