University of Washington

" Young Adult Health I think that's the kind of thing, in our communities, we don't necessarily say, 'You need to be a soldier. You need to be a teacher.' But we have a knowing in our community, an observation, we look and say, 'You know, that kid is brilliant. They should go to medical school. They should be a pharmacist. That kid is so compassionate, you know, maybe we can encourage them to be in social work or counseling or nursing.' We know their spirits. And so I think it is that encouragement, not necessarily directing — but that's maybe the highest form of mentoring." SUMMARY Young adults are the seedlings of youth grown into young saplings, on the brink of reaching their full potential. Young adults in Native communities will hopefully soon be making their mark –serving on Tribal Council, coordinating community events, and keeping age-old traditions, beliefs and languages alive. However these 19 -24 year olds are often overlooked in regards to programming and services, and it is easy for many to slip unnoticed into unhealthy habits and behaviors. Traditionally for many local communities, multiple generations and families lived together under the same roof; young adults moving away from the family home is a relatively new phenomenon. It is easy for many young adults to feel lost. Summit participants discussed a number of concerns for this age group. Among these were (1) the reality that young adults frequently become disconnected from their home, community and culture when they leave for college or career; (2) many young adults who don't complete college may feel a sense of failure and isolation; (3) potential loss of direction and motivation which leave young adults vulnerable to increased alcohol and drug use; (4) being unprepared to manage per capita funds; (5) some young adults coming home for the wrong reasons (substance abuse, incarceration, unemployment) and later getting kicked out of the home due to dangerous behavior (most often drug/alcohol related); and (6) many young adults don't have the appropriate life skills to transition into adulthood — financial literacy, job seeking skills, work ethic, etc. Community strengths related to young Native adults were also discussed. These included (1) strong family and community bonds and support; (2) community teachings that young adults can build on and learn from as they leave home; (3) community programs that young adults have often 22 participated in since they were born, and which provide opportunities for young adults to give back to the community; (4) events and community infrastructure coming from ideas from young community members who do what it takes to make things happen; (5) tribal schools and education; (6) tribal and Native organizations collaborating with Native clubs at colleges to support students; and (7) tribal employment assistance programs that include clothing and transportation vouchers, resume classes, and payment for certificate programs to assist young adults seeking employment. A number of specific needs for this age group were identified. Young adults need financial literacy, including information about financial aid and loans for college. Equally important is education about health care coverage and how access will change once they turn 19 years old. Education and support for career planning for those young adults who don't plan to go to college is key, as well as education and training to ensure that those going to college will have academic readiness. Young adults need good mentors as they transition into adulthood; mentors who will reach out to them regularly and who can provide support if they are in trouble and needing help. Universities and colleges also need to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for young Native adults, to help ease the transition into university life. Other needs discussed centered on drug and alcohol abuse prevention and treatment. Young Native adults need access to effective, Native-focused treatment and recovery houses on tribal reservations. Culturally sensitive sober living environments, such as transitional housing, are needed, as are Native-based treatment and after-care programs for moms and pregnant women. Communities need programs for families dealing with young adult family members engaging Washington Tribes & Recognized American Indian Organizations (RAIOs) Health Priorities Summit

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