Kenaitze’s Kya Ahlers competes in the one-hand reach event during the Tribe’s annual Native Youth Olympics Invitational meet.
Our Yaghanen Language and Cultural programs provide a space where youth come to develop life skills, learn culture, make friends and stay on track academically. We are an education, prevention and early intervention program open to kindergarten through 12th-grade students, offering a wide range of fun and educational activities. All programs include Dena’ina language learning and a focus on Huch’ulyeshi, the Dena’ina concept of “living in the outdoors.
We have academic year (September-May) programs after school where Yaghanen learners have access to cultural activities such as our Jabila’ina Dance Group, Del Dumi Intertribal Drum Group and Ggugguyni Native Youth Olympic Team. The curriculum includes archery skills, learning healthy eating habits and highlights the risks of using drugs and alcohol. We also offer study time and basic tutoring during the school year.
During summer, we offer daytime camps for youth ages 5-13 where participants learn fishing, harvesting, water safety, outdoor survival, healthy eating, Leave No Trace and other skills in different locations across Yaghanen, the good land of the Kenai Peninsula. We offer Susten Archeology Camp for youth ages 14-17.
Yaghanen Youth Academic Year Opportunities
Young campers use microscopes during a Harvest Camp outing to Kachemak Bay State Park.
Del Dumi Drum Group – Returning September 7, 2022
This group encourages sobriety, respect and pride through traditional drum songs. The group performs at significant Tribal gatherings and travels to non-local events. All students in seventh through 12th grades are encouraged to participate.
Jabila’ina Dance Group – Returning September 7, 2022
This group has a rich and deep tradition and has performed at many local and state events. Jabila’ina means “People of the Rainbow.” Tribal Elder Peter Kalifornsky gave us this name, and the group works to preserve his legacy.
Native Youth Olympics – Returning September 7, 2022
One of our most popular programs, members of the Ggugguyni Native Youth Olympics Team practice traditional sports and learn the importance of sportsmanship. Participants develop strength, balance, endurance and coordination, and compete in events across the state. The junior team is open to youth in first through sixth grades, while the senior team is open to those in seventh through 12th grades.
Contact – Location
Kahtnuht’ana Duhdeldiht Campus
12271 Kenai Spur Highway
Kenai, AK 99611
