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Learn about the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians and the Coyote Valley Tribal Office — dedicated to preserving Pomo culture, supporting community well-being, and driving economic growth in Mendocino County, California. sho:wdaxa:y (Coyote Valley) Yaʔ kapel Tribal News Youth Substance Prevention Basketball Tournament Get ready for an exciting weekend of community, competition, and connection! Coyote Valley Health & Human Services invites you to our Youth Substance Prevention Basketball Tournament, happening November 22–25 at the Coyote Valley Gym. This event brings together youth and families to promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles through teamwork, sportsmanship, and culture. Join us as we celebrate resilience, wellness, and the power of positive choices — both on and off the court. There will be great games, prizes, and community resources to support our youth in staying active and substance-free. Come cheer on your teams and be part of this inspiring event! Click Register your team! Triple P – Positive Parenting Program Coyote Valley Health & Human Services and First 5 Mendocino is proud to offer the Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) — a free, evidence-based course designed to help parents and caregivers build strong, healthy relationships with their children. Over eight weeks, families will learn practical strategies to manage common parenting challenges, encourage positive behavior, and reduce stress at home. Each class includes a family-style dinner, childcare, and supportive discussions in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Join us to discover small changes that make a big difference — creating more smiles, less stress, and stronger families. Register here before Nov. 11 Coyote Valley Connection Newsletter: Sign Up Click the link to sign up and get the Coyote Valley Connection Newsletter delivered straight to your email inbox. It’s an easy way to go green while staying connected — you’ll never miss the latest community news, events, and important updates. Sign up today and be in the know! Sign up today! Our History About yaʔ dakhe The Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians is a sovereign Tribal Nation committed to preserving our culture, traditions, and self-governance. Located in Redwood Valley, California, we strive to protect our people, land, and resources while fostering a strong, thriving community for future generations. Our Government Tribal Council Our History Our Culture Departments The Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians is dedicated to serving our community through a variety of departments that provide essential programs and services. Each department plays a vital role in supporting the well-being, growth, and prosperity of our Tribe. Administration & Finance Housing Department Gaming Commission Education Department Health & Human Services Environmental Department

Native Connections at Coyote Valley is a SAMHSA-funded program focused on suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and substance use disorder prevention for Native youth ages 10-24. It strengthens Tribal communities through culturally relevant behavioral health services and pathways to healing Tribally Approved Homes Services-Family What is a Tribally Approved Home? A Tribally Approved Home (TAH) is a safe, supportive, and culturally connected environment for Tribal children in need of care. When children cannot remain in their parent’s home, ICWA prioritizes placement with relatives, extended family, or Tribal members to ensure children remain within their community and connected to their traditions. Why become a Tribally Approved Home? Provide a loving, stable home for Coyote Valley children Keep children connected to their family, culture, and community Strengthen the Tribe’s ability to care for our own children Support the future of the next generation The Approval Process We will walk you through each step of the process to make sure you feel supported and prepared. Becoming a TAH generally includes: Application & Orientation – Learn about the program, requirements, and expectations. Background Checks – Ensuring the safety and well-being of our children. Home Study – A supportive review of your home environment to ensure it meets safety standards. Training – Guidance on caring for children, trauma-informed support, and cultural connection. Approval & Ongoing Support – Once approved, families receive continued resources, training, and support from the Tribe. Support for Families Our program provides ongoing assistance to Tribally Approved Homes, including: Case management and advocacy Access to community resources and services Cultural resources to share with children Training opportunities to support your role as a caregiver Get Started Are you ready to open your heart and home to a Tribal child? Becoming a Tribally Approved Home is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen our community and protect the future of our children. Contact Us Bernadette Mora HHS Director Contact Phone: (707) 472-3000 email: hhsdirector@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Bernadette Mora Events No events scheduled

The Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians is a federally recognized Tribe located in the heart of Mendocino County, Redwood Valley, California, USA. The reservation is approximately 82.36 acres of trust land. yal jit̪ekana:meʔ (Government) Welcome to the Government page of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Government RFP's Tribal Police Member Services Culture Art Foods Housing Language History European Contact Removal Indian Territory Turn of the Century Present Day Economic Development CEDCO CVRE CVEE Careers Employment Information Open Casino Positions Open Tribal Positions The Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians is a federally recognized Tribe located in the heart of Mendocino County, Redwood Valley, California, USA. The reservation is approximately 82.36 acres of trust land. For the purpose of governing ourselves, under our own laws, customs and traditions, free from state regulation and control, and for the purpose of establishing a legally recognized Tribal government and secure the rights and powers inherent in our sovereign status, guaranteed to us by the laws of the United States, the Tribe adopted the Document Embodying the Laws, Customs and Traditions of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians as its governing document; the Tribe’s Constitution. In accordance with the Tribe’s Constitution, the powers of the Tribe are divided into three distinct branches: the General Council, the Tribal Council, and Tribal Judiciary. The Tribe is comprised of over 300 members. All persons whose name appears on Tribal Base Roll (adopted October 30, 2012) or are lineal descendants of any person whose name appears on the Tribal Base Roll shall be members of the Tribe provided they have first made an application for membership according to the Tribe’s enrollment code. Duly enrolled members 18 years of age and older make up the General Council. Elected from the General Council is a Chief of the General Council and the Tribal Council. Yaʔ Ja:ʔxaleʔ (Our Leaders) Tribal Leadership Jason Brown Tribal Chief , Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Jason Brown grew up on the Coyote Valley Reservation, where he was heavily influenced by Tribal leaders who contributed to his Tribal Government education. He actively participated in youth leadership training and traditional cultural practices. At the age of 15, he worked in Tribal summer intern programs offered by the Education and Environmental Protection Departments. His natural leadership and quick learning aptitude contributed to his ability to quickly rise through the job ranks of the Tribal Education Department. Read More... Jennifer Feliz Chairwoman , Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Tribal Council Chairwoman Feliz is a dedicated leader, lifelong community member, and passionate advocate for the health and well-being of the people of Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians. Born and raised on the Coyote Valley Reservation, she grew up deeply connected to her culture, traditions, and the values of community service. Read More... Melinda Hunter Vice Chairwoman , Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Tribal Council The Coyote Valley Vice Chairwoman supports the Tribal Chairperson in leading the Tribal Council and advancing the goals of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians. She plays a key role in governance, policy development, and community engagement, while also representing the Tribe in intergovernmental affairs. In the Chairperson’s absence, she assumes leadership responsibilities to ensure continuity and strong Tribal representation. Read More... Briana Merino Secretary , Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Tribal Council Briana Merino is a dedicated and accomplished tribal leader with a deep commitment to serving her community. As the great-great-granddaughter of Angelina and Henry Campbell and the great-granddaughter of Thelma Pollard, Briana's roots run deep within the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians reservation. Read More... Amanda Pulawa Treasurer , Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Tribal Council The Coyote Valley Treasurer is responsible for managing the Tribe’s financial resources with integrity and transparency. This includes overseeing budgets, ensuring accurate financial reporting, maintaining compliance with tribal and federal regulations, and supporting the economic well-being of the Coyote Valley community. The Treasurer works closely with Tribal leadership to ensure sound fiscal planning and accountability. Read More... Margaret 'Markie' Olea Tribal Historian , Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Tribal Council Margaret “Markie” Olea, elected in 2022 to the Coyote Valley Tribal Council, is proud to serve as the Tribal Historian. Mrs. Olea has served the Coyote Valley Band in many capacities for over 25 years. She will truly attest that she started from the bottom, and with her hard work and dedication, and support from our people she is honored to represent the Coyote Valley people as the Tribal Historian. Read More... John Feliz Sr. Member at Large , Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Tribal Council Elected in 2014 to the Coyote Valley Tribal Council, John Feliz, Sr. serves as a Tribal Council Member to the Tribal government of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians. Council Member Feliz served the Tribe in prior leadership positions as a Tribal Historian and Tribal Secretary to the Tribal Council. Read More... Patrick Naredo Member at Large , Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Tribal Council Patrick Naredo is a seasoned executive board member with over 18 years of success in tribal government and economic development. He is currently a member of the Coyote Valley Tribal Council and serves on the boards of several tribal enterprises, including Coyote Economic Development Corporation (CEDCO), Coyote Valley Entertainment Enterprise (CVEE), Coyote Valley Hospitality Corporation (CVHC), Coyote Valley Retail Enterprises (CVRE), and Coyote Tribal Holdings Corporation (CTHC). Read More... Elders Council The Coyote Valley Elders Council is a body within the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, comprising respected Tribal Elders. While specific details about the Council's structure and functions are not publicly detailed, such councils typically serve as advisory groups, offering guidance on cultural preservation, traditions, and community matters. They often play a crucial role in mentoring younger generations and ensuring that the Tribe's heritage is upheld. Learn More... Tribal Executive Team Tribal Administration for the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians is the central governing body responsible for managing and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Tribe. It supports the Tribal Council by implementing policies, programs, and services that promote the well-being, self-determination, and cultural preservation of the Coyote Valley community. Tribal Administration coordinates departments such as Health & Human Services, Education, Housing, Environmental Protection, and more—ensuring that Tribal members receive essential services while honoring traditional values and sovereignty. Learn More... Department Directors Tribal Department Directors oversee the daily operations and strategic direction of their respective departments within the Coyote Valley Tribal Government. They are responsible for managing programs, staff, and resources to ensure the effective delivery of services that support the health, welfare, and advancement of the Tribal community. Directors collaborate with Tribal leadership to align departmental goals with the broader vision of the Trib Learn More... Gaming Commission The Coyote Valley Gaming Commission has been delegated the responsibility of enforcing all applicable tribal, state, and federal laws, and the regulations promulgated by the Gaming Commission for the purpose of carrying out its duties under the Compact and the Gaming Ordinance. Learn More...

As members of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians , we hold a deep commitment to our children—the heart of our future. In times when our young ones need extra care and protection, it's essential that they remain connected to their roots, surrounded by the love and traditions of our community. That's where becoming a Tribally Approved Home (TAH) comes in. If you've ever considered opening your home to a Tribal child in need, this could be your opportunity to make a profound difference. In this blog, we'll explore what a TAH is, why it's so important, and how you can get involved. What is a Tribally Approved Home? A Tribally Approved Home (TAH) is a safe, supportive, and culturally connected environment for Tribal children in need of care. When children cannot remain in their parent’s home, the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) prioritizes placement with relatives, extended family, or Tribal members to ensure children remain within their community and connected to their traditions. By becoming a TAH, you're not just providing shelter—you're offering a space where our children can thrive while staying tied to their Pomo heritage. This approach honors our ancestral values, ensuring that the next generation grows up knowing their stories, language, and customs. Why Become a Tribally Approved Home? The importance of TAHs cannot be overstated. They play a vital role in preserving our Tribal sovereignty and cultural continuity. Here's why stepping up as a TAH is so meaningful for our Coyote Valley Band: Provide a loving, stable home for Coyote Valley children : Every child deserves a nurturing environment where they feel secure and valued. As a TAH, you become that anchor for kids facing challenges. Keep children connected to their family, culture, and community : Separation from one's roots can be deeply traumatic. TAHs help maintain those essential bonds, allowing children to participate in Tribal events, learn traditional practices, and stay close to loved ones. Strengthen the Tribe’s ability to care for our own children : By building a network of approved homes within our community, we reduce reliance on outside systems that may not understand our ways. This empowers us to handle child welfare matters internally, aligning with ICWA principles. Support the future of the next generation : Investing in our children today ensures a stronger, more resilient Tribe tomorrow. TAHs help break cycles of trauma and foster pride in our Pomo identity. Becoming a TAH isn't just an act of service—it's a way to weave the fabric of our community tighter, protecting our legacy for generations to come. The Approval Process We understand that the idea of becoming a TAH might feel overwhelming at first, but rest assured, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. The process is designed to be supportive, ensuring you're fully prepared to welcome a child into your home. Here's a general overview: Application & Orientation : Start by learning about the program, its requirements, and what to expect. This is your chance to ask questions and see if it's the right fit. Background Checks : Safety is our top priority. We'll conduct thorough checks to ensure the well-being of our children. Home Study : A compassionate review of your living space to confirm it meets basic safety standards. Think of this as a helpful assessment, not an inspection. Training : You'll receive guidance on topics like trauma-informed care, supporting children's emotional needs, and fostering cultural connections. Approval & Ongoing Support : Once approved, you'll join our network of TAHs and gain access to continuous resources, additional training, and Tribal support. Throughout, we'll walk beside you, making sure you feel confident and empowered. Support for Families We don't just approve homes and leave it at that—our commitment extends far beyond. As a TAH, you'll have access to a robust support system tailored to help you succeed: Case management and advocacy : Dedicated assistance to navigate any challenges that arise. Access to community resources and services : From health care to educational support, we'll connect you with what you need. Cultural resources to share with children : Materials and activities to reinforce Pomo traditions, language, and history. Training opportunities : Ongoing workshops to enhance your skills as a caregiver. This wrap-around support ensures that you're never alone in this journey, allowing you to focus on what matters most: providing love and stability. Get Started Are you ready to open your heart and home to a Tribal child? Becoming a Tribally Approved Home is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen our community and protect the future of our children. If this resonates with you, reach out to our Health & Human Services Department today to begin the application process. Together, we can ensure that every Coyote Valley child grows up surrounded by the warmth of our people. For more information, contact us Let's build a brighter tomorrow, one home at a time. Yahweh (thank you) for considering this vital role in our Tribe.

As the Sacred Roots Tobacco Prevention Program comes to a close, we reflect with gratitude and pride on the journey we’ve taken together. What began as an effort to reduce commercial tobacco use has blossomed into a movement grounded in culture, education, and community healing. Sacred Roots has been more than just a program—it’s been a space to reclaim tradition, empower youth, and open up real conversations about health and wellness in Native communities. Honoring the Sacred, Challenging the Harmful At the heart of Sacred Roots has been our commitment to honoring the traditional and sacred use of tobacco while addressing the dangers of commercial tobacco use. We educated our youth and families about the deep spiritual significance of traditional tobacco—how it’s used in ceremony, during Big Times, and as a sacred medicine—not to be confused with harmful commercial tobacco products that have led to generations of health issues like emphysema, heart conditions, and second- and third-hand smoke exposure. "It has been my honor to work on behalf of the Sacred Tobacco program and the Coyote Valley membership. Our time together has been effective in all aspects of understanding how sacred tobacco is used. Working with the young adults has been refreshing and getting to know each of them assuring that commercial tobacco is not apart of their lives."-Jaime Boggs, Youth Engagement Coordinator Community at the Center Over the life of the program, we hosted impactful, culturally grounded workshops and events that brought the community together. One of the highlights was our Community Family Wellness Forum , which offered: Interactive games and raffles Engaging presentations  on tobacco-related health risks Free lunch and dinner Space for dialogue  about smoke exposure in homes, especially how smoke can travel through ventilation and impact entire families, but more than that, we celebrated culture through hands-on workshops including: Drum-making Wreath making Acorn necklace crafting Yoga and wellness sessions Community gardening Slim bar workshops These gatherings created opportunities for open, honest conversations about commercial tobacco's harm while highlighting the beauty and resilience of our traditions. Youth in Action: Youth Quest 2025 One of the most powerful moments from this year was when several of our youth and staff attended Youth Quest in Sacramento  this past March. Over three days, our youth joined hundreds of others from across the state to march in a rally at the Capitol , raising their voices about the importance of public health and standing up to the tobacco industry from a youth’s perspective. California has made meaningful progress in reducing youth tobacco use, but the fight is far from over. Big tobacco companies continue to target youth  through creative marketing tactics and products designed to ensure easy access. Closing these gaps is crucial for protecting the next generation—and our youth learned firsthand how to make their voices heard. Through this experience, they not only became advocates for change but also learned about the lobbying and legislative process , gaining tools that will serve them well into adulthood. Empowering Youth & Building a Tobacco-Free Future Sacred Roots prioritized youth engagement  through mentorship, peer education, and culturally relevant prevention efforts. Young people learned not only about the risks of commercial tobacco but also about their identity, heritage, and the importance of making informed, empowered choices. By centering Indigenous values and voices, our youth were not just participants—they were leaders. As We Wrap Up: The Roots Are Still Growing Though this chapter is closing, the seeds planted by Sacred Roots will continue to grow. The knowledge shared, the connections made, and the cultural pride rekindled will live on in the families, youth, and elders who took part. We are grateful for every person who attended a workshop, shared their story, or simply showed up with an open heart. Thank you for walking this journey with us. Together, we are reclaiming our sacred roots and paving the way for a healthier, stronger, tobacco-free generation. Stay connected. Stay empowered. Stay rooted.