Help From Us

Program Description: The Youth & Families Program provides opportunities for our community to stay connected, build relationships, and learn about Native American cultural values and traditions. KCIC provides workshops and events for youth and families to actively participate in Indigenous cultural activities. For our non-Native allies, we welcome you to join us and learn about different tribes, their specific cultures and to understand the difference between appropriation and appreciation.

Services Provided:

• Youth Camp KCIC offers a five-day, four-night camp for youth aged 5 to 14 years old that provides an opportunity to connect with area youth and learn about Native American traditions and cultures. It also provides leadership development opportunities for the older youth (ages 14-17) as Counselors in Training (CIT). Senior counselors and members of the American Indian and Alaska Native community work with the CITs and campers to aid in the understanding and appreciation of values, traditions and culture, in addition to swimming, hiking, archery, art and much more.
  Applications are generally available in early Spring each year and space is limited.
• Community Night; this monthly gathering assists in building strong community connections and cultural identity through food, performances, and workshops. Community Night occurs on the 2nd Tuesday of every month, except during the Summer months (June-August).
• Men’s Night The Men’s Group promotes healthy masculinity where members support and mentor one another and encourage physical, mental, and spiritual health. KCIC provides a FitBit and membership at all KC Park & Rec Community Centers. The Men’s Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month.
• Community Outreach: KCIC receives numerous requests each year for powwow dancer demonstrations or other cultural presentations. Our staff are available for a limited number of presentations per year and dance demonstrations are referred to members of the community. Dance demonstrations require an honorarium for the dancers/singers.
• Annual Art Market: KCIC hosts an art market annually to showcase local artisans and their artwork, including performances/dance demonstrations. Artist applications are available in early fall.
• Various classes and gatherings throughout the year.

Program Eligibility:
Family and Youth Program events, such as the Community/Culture Nights, are open to the public. We welcome those who are curious about learning Indigenous cultural values, traditions, and ceremonies and to those reconnecting with their heritage.

• Youth Culture Camp Eligibility:
  • Camper Eligibility
    Between the ages of 5- and 14-years-old.
  • Counselor-in-Training, Counselor, Volunteer Eligibility
    CITs - must be between 15- to 17-years-old.
  • Counselors and Volunteers - must be over 18-years-old.
    Must pass a background check.
• Men’s Group Eligibility
  • Must identify as a man.
  • Over the age of 15-years-old.