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 Ancestorial Territory Land Removal Federally Recognized Present Day Economic Development CEDCO CVRE CVEE Utility Corporation Careers All Open 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...

We strive to collaborate with the members and departments of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians to protect and restore the environmental health of the reservation in a culturally sensitive manner. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT Katawna Ford Environmental Specialist , EPD (707) 485-8723 x 2261 epdes2@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Israel Pulawa Water Resource Specialist, EPD (707) 485-8723 x 2210 water@coyotevalley-nsn.gov OUR MISSION Din e a mete ma- “Remember Mother Earth” As water is the substance of life so is our beloved Mother Earth. Our responsibilities are to protect the two-legged, four-legged, the winged ones, the ones that crawl on their belly, human health, land, air, and water by developing environmental laws and regulations with a commitment to the tribal membership, sustainability, partnership, and restoration. We strive to collaborate with the members and departments of Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians to protect and restore the environmental health of the reservation in a culturally sensitive manner. The department will collaborate with federal, state, and local agencies as well as other tribes to procure funding for the benefit of the environment and health of the Reservation and to ensure that Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians is made aware of important decisions and issues which may impact the reservation or its members. ABOUT US The Coyote Valley Environmental Protection Department is active in water quality testing, stream monitoring, solid waste planning and implementation, invasive species monitoring, planning for native species protection, environmental health outreach, youth intern training, drought and hazard mitigation planning, as well as collaborating with other departments to meet the needs and concerns of the human and environmental health of the members, residents, guest, and employees of Coyote Valley Reservation. The Environmental Protection Department works within the land base of approximately 78 acres of Federal Trust Land with an exterior boundary to the south by Forsythe Creek with some sections of the creek having Reservation land on both sides, and the exterior boundary to the East is the West Fork of the Russian River with a small section where both banks lie within the Reservation. This section includes the confluence with Salt Hollow Creek. Additionally, outreach programs update members living on and off the Reservation regarding Environmental Protection Department activities on the reservation as well as environmental issues in general. GRANTS BIA Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) DOI Bureau of Reclamation: Riverbank Restoration US EPA Environmental Information Exchange Network Grant Program provides funding to develop an Internet-based, secure network that supports the electronic collection, exchange, and integration of high-quality data. US EPA Performance Partnership: (GAP, WPC 106, NPS 319) General Assistance Program (GAP): EPA provides assistance to the Tribe to develop the capacity to manage our own environmental protection programs and to develop and implement solid and hazardous waste programs. Clean Water Act Section 319 (NPS 319): EPA provides grants and technical assistance to support tribal environmental programs in assessing and managing nonpoint source (NPS) pollution problems and threats. Clean Water Act Section 106 (WPS 106): EPA provides assistance to establish and administer programs for the prevention, reduction, and elimination of water pollution. Follow Us On Facebook

Howling News and Events April 13, 2026 It Takes A Village: BBQ & Family Game Day Join us on April 19th from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM for It Takes a Village: BBQ & Family Game Day, a community event focused on strengthening families and raising awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month. This fun and meaningful gathering brings families, programs, and community partners together to celebrate connection, support, and prevention. Attendees can enjoy a BBQ lunch, interactive family games including potato sack races, Jenga, Connect Four, and cornhole, along with raffles and prize opportunities. More info.... April 13,2026 BIG TIME 2026-Vendor Application The 2026 BIG Time celebration on July 4th is a special community event bringing families, youth, and elders together to enjoy a day of culture, connection, and celebration. The event will feature live entertainment, cultural activities, food, games, and interactive experiences for all ages. This gathering is designed to strengthen community ties while providing a fun and welcoming space for everyone to come together and celebrate the holiday. To make this event successful, vendors are needed to help bring variety and energy to the celebration. We are currently seeking: Food vendors Craft and artisan vendors Community resource booths Cultural demonstrators Youth activity and game vendors Vendor participation will help create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere while also supporting local businesses, artists, and community programs. Apply Now March 25,2026 Trades & Careers Gathering-May 14, 2026 Join us for the Working Hands Job & Career Fair, a dynamic community event focused on connecting job seekers with meaningful employment opportunities, hands-on training, and long-term career pathways. This all-ages gathering brings together local employers, workforce programs, educational institutions, and community organizations committed to strengthening our regional workforce. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore job openings, engage with hiring employers, and access valuable resources that support career readiness and professional growth. The event will also feature live demonstrations, panel discussions, raffle prizes, and food vendors—creating an engaging and supportive environment for learning and connection. Learn more.... March 25,2026 Coyote Valley Market Travel Market & Fuel: Customer Appreciation Day is May 1st! Join us for Coyote Valley Travel Market & Fuel Customer Appreciation Day on May 1st! This special event celebrates our community and customers with a day dedicated to connection, culture, and local entrepreneurship. We are currently seeking vendors, including local artists, small businesses, and Native artists, to be part of this exciting event. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your work and connect with the community—apply today! For more information, call 707-472-2205 or email memberservices@coyotevalley-nsn.gov . 👉 Click here to apply and secure your spot! March 25, 2026 Earth Day Celebration: April 18th Join us for a meaningful and family-friendly Earth Day celebration, “Clean Air is Community Care,” on April 18th from 10 AM to 3 PM at the Coyote Valley Dance Grounds. This event brings the community together to honor the environment, promote wellness, and celebrate the connection between clean air and community health. Throughout the day, guests can explore a variety of outreach booths featuring local programs and resources focused on environmental awareness, health, and sustainability. Families are encouraged to bring their children to enjoy hands-on kid’s crafts designed to inspire creativity and environmental stewardship. Attendees will also have the opportunity to support local vendors offering unique goods, food, and handmade items. Read More... March 9, 2026 Read the First Quarter release of the Coyote Valley Connection Newsletter We are happy to share exciting news from each of our Tribal Government Departments and to celebrate the future of our community, including recreation, culture revitalization, project updates, and more! To advertise your small/local business or share community input, please click here. Read More... March 3, 2026 Positive Indian Parenting Class Starts March 24th Positive Indian Parenting is an 8-week class designed to support Native parents and guardians in reconnecting with traditional Indigenous child-rearing teachings while learning practical tools for today’s parenting challenges. This culturally grounded program strengthens family bonds, builds confidence, and empowers caregivers to raise strong, resilient future generations. Read more about event February 17, 2026 MMIP Feather Alert Community Training Join our Feather Alert Training! Learn how to quickly respond to missing Indigenous persons and help raise awareness about the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis. Dinner provided — all ages welcome! Read more about event February 11,2026 Situational Awareness Defense Class Join us for an empowering free self-defense class designed to build confidence, awareness, and practical skills you can use in real-life situations. This interactive session focuses on strengthening both mindset and movement, helping participants feel more prepared and secure in their daily lives. Read more about event February 5,2026 Elders Bingo Night Brings Community Together at Coyote Valley Coyote Valley Health and Human Services was proud to host our recent Elders Bingo Night at the Coyote Valley Wyndham Hotel, welcoming not only our elders but the broader tribal community for an evening of connection, laughter, and fun. The event brought together more than 50 community members, creating a warm and lively atmosphere filled with friendly competition and shared stories. Read more about event January 9, 2026 Honoring Our Roots: Casino Tent Farewell & Community Park Dedication Join us as we come together to honor and acknowledge the history of our beloved Casino Tent before its demolition and the transformation of the space into a new community park. This meaningful ceremony will include an opening prayer, reflections on the tent’s history, light refreshments, and the presence of Tribal Council and Chief as we respectfully close one chapter and welcome a new beginning for our community. Read more about event November 4,2025 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 by November 11,2025 November 4,2025 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! Register Here! September 22,2025 Coyote Valley Connection Newsletter: Issue #5 Coyote Valley is excited to share Issue #5 of the Coyote Valley Connection Newsletter! This edition is filled with important updates from across our departments, highlighting the great work happening throughout our community. You’ll also find news on upcoming economic development projects that will create new opportunities and growth for Coyote Valley. Stay connected, stay informed, and celebrate the progress we’re making together! Read more September 18,2025 Victims of Crime Resource Day-Hand Game Tournament Join us for the Hand Game Tournament on Friday, October 24th at Coyote Valley! Sign-ups run from 3:30pm–4:30pm, with games starting at 5:30pm and dinner at 6:00pm. Teams of 3–5 players are welcome, with at least one youth required per team. Come enjoy a fun evening of competition, culture, and community—plus a chance to win great prizes! Read more July 23,2025 Coyote Valley Connection Newsletter Issue 4 The latest edition of the Coyote Valley Connection Newsletter — Issue #4 — is now out! This issue highlights some of the most exciting moments from the past quarter, including a vibrant recap of the 29th Annual Big Time Celebration, where community, culture, and tradition came together in a powerful way. We also honor and celebrate the achievements of our 2025 graduates, showcasing their hard work and bright futures. Plus, the Environmental Department shares important updates on ongoing initiatives to protect and preserve our land and natural resources. It’s been a busy and meaningful season — be sure to read the full issue to stay informed and connected with everything happening in Coyote Valley! Read more July 7,2025 Big Time, Big Thanks! Share Your Thoughts & Help Us Grow Thank you all for joining us at our 29th Annual Big Time! We had an absolute blast celebrating culture, community, and tradition together — your presence truly made it a success. We’re always striving to enhance these gatherings and would greatly value your insights. Please take a moment to click the link and complete our quick feedback survey. Your thoughts help us continue to grow, honor our heritage, and make each Big Time even more memorable. Take Survey July 3,2025 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! July 3,2025 Community Input Submissions Due July 15th The deadline to submit your community news for the next Coyote Valley Newsletter is July 15th. If you have any announcements — birthdays, anniversaries, achievements, or other updates — we’d love to include them and help celebrate your special moments. Please reach out and share your news with us by the deadline so we can feature it in our upcoming issue! Inquire March 24,2025 2nd Edition: Coyote Valley Connection Newsletter 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 are thrilled to share the latest developments in our mission to make a positive impact in our community. This quarterly newsletter aims to keep you informed about our initiatives, achievements, and upcoming events that contribute to the well-being and growth of our tribe. We strive to protect our people, land, and resources while fostering a strong, thriving community for future generations. Read More... April 30, 2025 Tribal Member Art Contest **CLOSED **Calling All Coyote Valley Tribal Artists! Showcase your creativity on the Tribe’s official holiday cards and birthday cards this year! Selected artwork will be featured on the cards and highlighted with an "About the Artist" spotlight. Submission Details: Tribal members may submit one entry per category (holiday card and birthday card). Four winners will each receive a $200 prize! Open to enrolled Coyote Valley Tribal Members of all ages. Apply Now Click the image above to submit your artwork or learn more. For questions, contact Member Services at 707-472-2205 or email memberservices@coyotevalley-nsn.gov. We can’t wait to see your creativity shine!

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The Sacred Roots Program at Coyote Valley supports Native youth with education, mentorship, and culturally based activities to prevent substance use. By strengthening cultural identity and resilience, it promotes healthy choices and long-term well-being. Solid Waste, Recycling, and Hazardous Household Waste The Solid Waste, Recycling, & HHW program supports a cleaner, healthier community through coordinated waste management and public education. This includes organizing tribal waste cleanup events, planning safe and accessible options for Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) disposal, and providing ongoing recycling support, education, and outreach. The program also promotes composting and other waste-minimization efforts to reduce environmental impacts and encourage sustainable practices across the community. Services-Family Contact Us Program Details: Tribal waste coordination & cleanup events Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) disposal planning Recycling support, education, and outreach Composting and waste minimization programs Richard Campbell Jr. EPD Director Contact Phone: (707) 472-8950 email: epddir@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Richard Campbell Events No events scheduled

Vice Chairwoman Melinda Hunter of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians is a dedicated leader with 16 years of service. Guided by faith and her mother’s legacy, she champions cultural preservation, community well-being, and tribal development. Coyote Valley Tribal Council Melinda Hunter Vice Chairwoman, Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Elected in 2024 Vice Chairwoman of the Tribal Council Melinda Hunter is a proud member of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, dedicated to the well-being and advancement of her people. She has served her tribe in numerous capacities alongside her role as a Council Member of the Tribal Council for the past 16 years. Melinda draws great inspiration from her mother, Priscilla Hunter, who served as the Tribe’s Chairwoman and was a driving force behind numerous initiatives to improve tribal welfare. Priscilla’s legacy as a courageous and visionary leader lives on in Melinda, who continues to uphold the values and teachings passed down through generations. Central to Melinda’s leadership is her profound faith and devotion to the Creator, which serve as pillars of her strength and resolve. As Vice Chairwoman, Melinda Hunter embraces the responsibility of fostering development, preserving cultural heritage, and advocating for the needs of her community. Her leadership, rooted in experience, faith, and the influence of impactful mentors, ensures that the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians will continue to thrive under her guidance. Back

Breana Merino, Secretary of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, is a dedicated leader deeply rooted in her community. With multiple degrees and years of service since age 13, she champions youth, education, and programs addressing substance abuse, violence, and mental health. Coyote Valley Tribal Council Back Briana Merino Secretary, Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Elected in 2024 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. Growing up on the reservation, Briana developed a passion for empowering her people and creating positive change. Her unwavering dedication has led her to hold various roles within the tribal organization since the age of 13, including summer youth intern in the environmental protection department and youth intern at the casino. Briana's commitment to education is evident in her pursuit of multiple degrees and certificates. She holds an Associate's in Arts in Paralegal Studies, an Associate's in Sciences in Administrative Office Professional, an Associate in Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences, and certificates in Office Assistant, Administrative Assistant, Account Clerk, Business Bookkeeper, General Education, Tribal Leadership and Governance, and White Bison programs. In 2024, Briana was elected as Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Tribal Secretary. Prior to this role, she worked with tribal member youth since 2019 in various capacities, providing support, outreach services, grant programing, and parent engagement. Briana's vision for the future is centered around creating opportunities for tribal members, listening attentively to their needs, finding programs to assist those in need, and raising awareness about programs that address substance abuse, violence, and mental health issues. She is also committed to supporting out-of-area members and elders. Through her work, Briana strives to be a catalyst for positive change within her community, leaving a lasting impact on the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians for generations to come.

The Sacred Roots Program at Coyote Valley supports Native youth with education, mentorship, and culturally based activities to prevent substance use. By strengthening cultural identity and resilience, it promotes healthy choices and long-term well-being. Environmental Education & Youth Workforce The Environmental Education & Youth Workforce program empowers young people to become active stewards of the land through hands-on learning and cultural connection. Youth participate in community cleanups, watershed care, and recycling initiatives while engaging in science-based environmental training that builds real-world skills. The program also supports Earth Day and other community environmental events, fostering awareness and responsibility. Through cultural stewardship and ecological learning, youth gain the knowledge and experience needed to protect the environment for future generations. Services-Family Contact Us Program Details: Youth involvement in cleanup, watershed care, and recycling Earth Day and community environmental events Science-based environmental training Cultural stewardship and ecological learning Richard Campbell Jr. EPD Director Contact Phone: (707) 472-8950 email: epddir@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Richard Campbell Events No events scheduled

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 ICWA (Indian Child Welfare Act) The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) was enacted in 1978 to protect the best interests of Native children and to promote the stability and security of Tribal families and communities. At the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, our Health and Human Services Department carries out the Tribe’s ICWA program to ensure that Tribal children remain connected to their families, culture, and community. Our program works closely with county child welfare agencies, state courts, and families to advocate for the rights of our Tribal children and to make sure that ICWA’s provisions are followed. Services-Family Program Goals Advocacy & Protection: Ensure the rights of Tribal children and families are respected in all child welfare proceedings. Cultural Connection: Maintain and strengthen the connection of our youth to their Tribal culture, traditions, and community. Family Support: Provide resources and referrals that help families stay together in safe and healthy homes. Collaboration: Work with state, county, and federal agencies to make sure ICWA laws are followed in every case involving Coyote Valley children. Prevention & Education: Offer guidance, education, and support to families to prevent child removal and to promote family wellness. Program Details: Representation of the Tribe in ICWA-related child welfare cases. Advocacy for placement preferences that keep children within their family, Tribe, or Native community. Case management and support for families navigating child welfare proceedings. Coordination with social service providers to strengthen family stability and safety. Education for Tribal members and external agencies about ICWA rights and responsibilities. Culturally appropriate resources and referrals for families in need. Why ICWA matters For generations, Native children were disproportionately removed from their homes, communities, and culture. ICWA protects our children and strengthens Tribal sovereignty by ensuring that decisions about our children are made with the involvement of their Tribe and with respect for their cultural heritage. At Coyote Valley, we are committed to ensuring that no child loses their connection to who they are and where they come from. Contact Information If you have questions about ICWA or need assistance, please contact: Coyote Valley Health & Human Services Department – ICWA Program Contact Us ICWA Brochure Download our ICWA Program Brochure to learn more about services, rights, and resources available for families. Interested in becoming a Tribally Approved Home? Click here to learn more Ricky Contreras ICWA Coordinator Nora Frease ICWA Program Assistant Contact Phone: (707) 380-3624 email: icwa@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Ricky Contreras Phone: (707) 472-3000 email: programassistant@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Nora Frease

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 SAHMSA (NATIVE CONNECTIONS) The Native Connections Program is a grant-funded initiative through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) that focuses on suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and substance use disorder prevention among Native youth and young adults (ages 10-24). The program is designed to strengthen Tribal communities by improving access to culturally relevant behavioral health services and creating pathways for healing and resilience. Services-Youth What the Native Connections Program Does Promotes Mental Health Awareness Suicide Prevention & Crisis Support Substance Abuse Prevention & Recovery Support Community & Cultural Engagement Youth Leadership & Empowerment Join us at upcoming events to learn, connect, and grow. Eligibility Federally acknowledged tribal member Ages: 10-24 Contact Us Program Details: Attend Community Events & Workshops Look out for Native Connections events, talking circles, and workshops. Participate in youth-focused activities like culture workshops, sports, and leadership training. Become a Peer Mentor or Volunteer Support youth in their mental health and wellness journeys. Become a mentor by sharing your cultural knowledge and traditions! Partner with us to lead a workshop or talking circle, helping to guide and inspire the next generation in our community. Your wisdom and experience can make a lasting impact—join us today! Seek Support & Resources If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to the Coyote Valley Health and Human Services Department for referrals to counseling, crisis support, or wellness programs. The Native Connections Program is here to support and uplift Coyote Valley youth and families through mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and cultural resilience. Your voice matters, and your participation can create real change in our community! Culture is Prevention! If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts and needs immediate support, please reach out for help: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988 Crisis Text Line Text HOME to 741741 The Trevor Project Text START to 678678 Brochures Suicide Awareness & Prevention for Native Youth Self-Harm Prevention Education Women's Pomo top knot head dress Turkey feathers Turkey feathers among other native birds to the Northern California area are used in traditional top knot head dress. Such as, pheasants, hawks, and geese. student making top knot Women's Pomo top knot head dress 1/6 Danielle Harjo Native Connections Project Coordinator Contact email: ncyal@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Sequoia Whipple Phone: (707) 472-2297 email: connections@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Danielle Harjo Events No events scheduled Mobile: (707) 367-3860