Search Results

Margaret “Markie” Olea, Tribal Historian and Council Member of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, has served her tribe for over 25 years across education, health, gaming, and fiscal departments. Dedicated to preserving history and empowering her community. Coyote Valley Tribal Council Back Margaret 'Markie' Olea Tribal Historian, Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Elected in 2022 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. Margaret began her career with the tribe in 1992, when she was hired as a Fiscal Clerk through the CIMC Work Program. She has worked with numerous people who have taught and mentored her into being the leader and representative that she strives to be. Throughout her 25+ years with Coyote Valley, she has served in the Tribe’s Fiscal, Education, Gaming Commission, and Health departments. On several occasions, she has worn many hats in the efforts of keeping tribal operations running smoothly and serving the tribal people and our external partners. After taking a brief break from serving the tribe from 1996 – 1999, she relocated to her home-town in Southern California to be near her mother, at which time she worked for a construction company based in Lake Elsinore, California. Her return back to Coyote Valley occurred in October 1999, when she was offered a position in our Tribal Education department. Mrs. Olea also serves as member of the Tribe’s Coyote Economic Development Corporation. Not only is Margaret dedicated, compassionate and empathetic to our community our people’s needs, she is a driving force on the Tribal Council helping lay the foundation for our continued success. When not tending to her tribal duties, Margaret appreciates spending quality time with her family, and keeps busy enjoying her grandchildren and supporting community activities.

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. Department Directors Bryant Hererra Education Director Hello everyone, my name is Bryant M. Herrera, and I’m the Education Director for your Tribe. I’d like to take a moment to share a bit about myself. My passion for education began more than twenty-five years ago when I was a freshman in high school. I was given the opportunity to work with children in after-school programs across the Ukiah Unified School District, an experience that sparked my lifelong commitment to helping children in education. After high school, I began working with the Coyote Valley Tribe as their middle and high school tutor. Through dedication, persistence, and a genuine passion for helping students, I was entrusted with opportunities to take on new roles and greater responsibilities. Nearly two decades later, I am honored to serve as the tribe’s Education Director. I am deeply grateful to the Coyote Valley community for their trust and support throughout my journey. It has truly been a privilege to watch the youth grow and see how far their journeys have taken them. Here’s a little about me outside of work. I was born and raised in the Ukiah/Redwood Valley area, and at a young age me and my family were blessed to adopt my two nieces and nephew, a decision that has had a huge impact on who I am today (love you guys!). I’ve always had a passion for sports, whether it was playing or watching, I never miss a chance to support my favorite teams (Go Giants & 49ers!) and watch them live. Music is another big part of my life; I love going to concerts and music events with my cousins and friends, discovering new artists, and being open minded to new genres. When I’m not immersed in sports or music, I’m usually deep into a Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) campaign, exploring new worlds, creating characters, and enjoying the friendship and camaraderie the board game brings. Richard Campbell Environmental Protection Director/Interim Plant Operations Director Richard H. Campbell Jr. is a dedicated Tribal Government professional and environmental leader, deeply rooted in the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians community. The grandson of Walter Henry Campbell and Margaret Beeson Campbell, a proud Hopi, and the son of Richard Campbell Sr., affectionately known as “Chief,” Richard proudly carries forward a family legacy of leadership, cultural pride, and community service. With four years of service on the Tribal Council, Richard currently serves as the Director of the Environmental Protection Department, where he leads initiatives to protect local streams, rivers, and natural resources. He is a key contributor to several major tribal projects, including casino and hotel development, low-income housing, and water infrastructure. His work reflects a strong commitment to sustainability, regulatory compliance, and the future well-being of his community. Richard’s path began with his first summer job as a youth worker under EPA Tom Ramos—a formative experience that sparked his passion for environmental stewardship. Over the years, he has been mentored and inspired by respected leaders, including the late Chairman Bubba Feliz, whose dedication to the tribe continues to influence Richard’s work and values. A proud father of five children, ranging in age from 30 to 9, Richard’s personal and professional lives are guided by a deep love for family, heritage, and community. He believes in empowering future generations through service, tradition, and resilience, and remains dedicated to preserving the land and culture of Coyote Valley for those to come. Bernadette Mora Health and Human Services Director For those who may not know me, my name is Bernadette Mora. I am a member of the Hopland Band of Pomo Indians, the daughter of Ronald Knight, Sr., and the great-granddaughter of Alice Connor-Elliott. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a double major in Economics and Gaming Management from the University of Nevada, Reno. Since 1994, I’ve had the privilege of working with Tribal communities, gaining deep insight into the unique needs, priorities, and the complex challenges we face. Over the years, I’ve developed expertise in policy development, needs assessments, event planning, and—most notably—in successfully managing millions of dollars in grant funding. I’m known for my strong leadership, commitment to seeing difficult projects through, and my ability to build cohesive, high-performing teams. But beyond the professional, I am first and foremost a mother to six incredible boys—Joel, CJ, Sammy, Marcus, Elijah, and Legend. I am a fierce competitor with a lifelong passion for basketball, both as a player and coach. Raising my sons, coaching them, and staying active in sports has brought me great joy and also taught me invaluable lessons in humility, patience, and maintaining a work ethic that pushes me—and those around me—to go the extra mile. As I look ahead, I remain committed to serving our people with integrity, passion, and purpose. I believe that our communities deserve bold, thoughtful leadership—grounded in tradition and focused on sustainable growth. Whether it’s through continued service, new initiatives, or collaborative partnerships, I’m ready to take the next step forward with you. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I’m excited for what comes next, and I invite you to join me in building a stronger future for our Tribal communities—together. Government Mission, Vision, & Core Values RFP's Tribal Police Tribal Court Culture Art Foods Housing Language History Migration Story Homeland 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 Thomas Hernandez Facilities and Lands Director Tomas Hernandez Facilities & Land Administrator – Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Tomas Hernandez serves as the Facilities & Land Administrator for the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, where he oversees the planning, development, and maintenance of Tribal lands, facilities, and infrastructure. With more than 25 years of professional experience in finance, project management, and community development, Thomas brings a strong business foundation and a deep commitment to the Tribe’s long-term sustainability and self-determination. Before joining Coyote Valley, Thomas served as Grants Director for the Pinoleville Pomo Nation, where he secured and managed critical funding opportunities and improved operational efficiency across departments. His professional history also includes two decades in mortgage lending and real estate throughout Northern California, where he earned recognition as a top-producing loan officer and built a reputation for integrity, accuracy, and client-focused service. A graduate of Skidmore College with a degree in Biology, Thomas applies analytical insight and collaborative leadership to every project he undertakes. His work continues to reflect a commitment to stewardship, economic growth, and improving the quality of life for the Coyote Valley community.

The Tribal Nutrition Assistance Program at Coyote Valley provides nutritious food, nutrition education, and culturally relevant support to eligible Tribal members and families, promoting health, wellness, and food security within the community. TRIBAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (TNAP) The Tribal Nutrition Assistance Program (TNAP) is dedicated to ensuring that Tribal families have access to healthy, nutritious food. We provide culturally relevant food assistance, nutrition education, and support services to promote overall well-being and food security within our community. Through TNAP, families can receive essential food resources while learning about traditional and modern ways to maintain a balanced, healthy diet. Our program is committed to strengthening our community by fostering health, wellness, and self-sufficiency for all members. Services-Health & Wellness The Tribal Nutrition Assistance Program (TNAP) is dedicated to improving food security, promoting healthy eating habits, and supporting the overall well-being of Tribal families. By providing access to nutritious foods and educational resources, we empower our community to make informed choices for a healthier future. Eligibility: Tribal member of Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Apply Program Details: Food Assistance & Distribution Monthly food packages featuring healthy and culturally relevant foods Access to fresh fruits, vegetables, proteins, and pantry staples Special support for elders, families with young children, and individuals in need Nutrition Education & Wellness Cooking classes and workshops on preparing balanced meals Guidance on traditional and modern nutrition practices Tips for meal planning, budgeting, and making healthy choices Community Support & Outreach Family and community meal events to encourage wellness and connection Resources for gardening, food preservation, and traditional food knowledge Eligibility & Enrollment Assistance Support in determining program eligibility and completing applications Assistance with accessing additional food resources and services One-on-one guidance to ensure families receive the support they need Sara Basaldua Outreach Coordinator Contact Phone: (707) 472-2242 email: outreach@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Sara Basaldua Events No events scheduled

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. RFPs CLICK TO VIEW FILE

Our purpose is to give students the best opportunity to thrive and succeed in life. We’re committing ourselves in providing guidance, encouragement, and confidence that will empower students to successfully attain their greatest potential in academics. SCHOLARSHIPS BIA - Higher Education Grant Application Requirments Students should make application for admittance to an accredited college or university while applying for grant assistance. Students are to be directed to the Financial Aid Officer of the college they plan to attend or are attending to have their financial need evaluated. A student should request that an official financial needs analysis be forwarded by the Financial Aid Officer to the Coyote Valley Tribal Education Department. This analysis will include all sources of financial assistance, which are to be applied toward meeting the student’s total needs. The Tribal Education Director will review the official analysis and base the amount to be granted on the established need, and on the amount of available funds. APPLICATION DEADLINES : All applications will be considered on a first come, first served basis, based on the availability of funds. First priority will be given to applicants who summit their application no later than the following deadline dates: Late application will be considered only if there are remaining funds available. Eligibility Requirements Must be a member of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Must be accepted for admission to a nationally accredited institution of higher education, which provides a course of study conferring the Associate of Arts or Bachelor’s degree Must demonstrate financial need Universities and Colleges The college or university a student elects to attend must be accredited by a nationally accredited agency or be an institution whose credits are accepted on transfer by not fewer than three institutions that are accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency. Required Application Documents Students must have completed grant application to be considered for the semester/quarter. After all application documents are submitted, an acknowledgement letter will be mailed to the student notifying them if their application was completed or incomplete. A complete application package must include: Coyote Valley’s BIA Higher Education Grant Application Tribal Enrollment Certification High School Transcript, GED Financial Needs Analysis (Student Budget) Current College Transcripts Reasons for Denial: Application not submitted in a timely manner Incomplete application Must demonstrate financial need. Student not an enrolled member of the Coyote Valley band of Pomo Indians Student not attending school, dropped out, or did not register Student in default with school financial aid or Coyote Valley BIA Higher Ed. Program Award Process: Awards will be made on a semester or quarter basis. Once an award has been determined, an award letter will be sent to the students and the financial aid office notifying them of the award amount and semester funded. Conditions for Continuation of Grant: Students receiving grants must maintain acceptable academic standing at college or the university; maintain social conduct within the policies and rules of the institution attended, demonstrate satisfactory progress toward degree requirements, submit a written request (application) in advance for the next year’s scholarship in a timely manner and successfully complete the school year or grant period specified by the college. Grade reports of each student are to be reviewed at the end of each semester or quarter. Students earning less than a “C” average grade (GPA 2.0) may be continued on a probationary grant, providing the college recommends their continuance. The recipient shall agree to the following conditions set forth by signing and dating the application form. Grantee shall submit a new application each academic year. Grantee shall submit their transcripts of the last semester/quarter attended. Grantee shall be responsible for keeping the Coyote Valley Education Office informed of his/her status once he/she has entered college. A change of address, change of income, intent to transfer to another institution and academic progress shall be made known as soon as possible to the Education Director. All changes must be made in writing for documentations. A new budget (Financial Needs Analysis) must be submitted every academic year. ACADEMIC PROBATION PROCEDURES Students currently receiving funding will be put on probation IF THE FOLLOWING EVENTS OCCUR: Student’s GPA falls below the minimum 2.0 requirement Student is not enrolled full-time (minimum 12 class units) or taking less than the full time unit requirement for the institution attending. FORM | BIA Higher Education Grant Application BIA Current Award Levels All awards are based on the availability of funds, eligibility criteria, and student need. Scholarships awards are administered on a first come, first served basis. Eligibility Definitions Part–time: Students in good standing enrolled in less than 12 units of study at an accredited post-secondary institution Full–time: Students in good standing in 12 or more unites of study at an accredited post-secondary institution Resident Students: Living at home while attending school Non–resident students: Living away from home to attend school Scholarship probation: Students who have received funding to attend school who did not complete their classes, or whose grade point average falls below 2.0. Students will be placed on probation for the semester of enrollment following being placed on scholarship probation. While on scholarship probation, if the student does not successfully complete classes, or fails to improve GPA (Grade Point Average), that student will be ineligible for future funding. A Tribal member who has lost his/her scholarship eligibility may appeal to Tribal Council to show cause for being reinstated for funding. Scholarship award eligibility Part–time: Up to $500 per semester to cover the costs of registration, books, supplies necessary for classes. Full–time: Community College Level: Up to $750 per semester to cover the costs of registration, books, supplies necessary for classes. State College/University level: Up to $1,000 per semester to cover the costs of registration, books, supplies necessary for classes. Full–time non–resident students: Community College Level: Up to $1,000 per semester to cover the costs of registration, books, supplies necessary for classes and living expenses. State College/University level: Up to $1,500 per semester to cover the costs of registration, books, supplies necessary for classes and living expenses. BIA - Adult Vocational Training Grant Application Eligibility Definitions Part time: Students in good standing enrolled in less than 12 units of study at an accredited training program leading towards a certificate to become employed in a vocational field. Full time: Students in good standing enrolled in 12 or more units of study at an accredited training program leading towards a certificate to become employed in a vocational field Resident Students: Living at home while attending school Non-resident students: Living away from home to attend school Adult vocational training (AVT) grant probation: Students who have received funding to attend school who did not complete their classes, or whose grade point average falls below 2.0. Students will be placed on probation for the semester of enrollment following being placed on adult vocational training grant probation. While on AVT grant probation, if the student does not successfully complete classes, or fails to improve GPA, that student will be ineligible for future funding. A Tribal member who has lost his/her AVT grant eligibility may appeal to Tribal Council to show cause for being re-instated for funding. AVT Grant award eligibility Part time students: Up to $500 per semester to cover the costs of tuition, books, supplies necessary for classes. Full time resident students (living at home): Up to $1000 per semester to cover the costs of tuition, books, supplies necessary for classes. Full time non-resident students (living away from home): Up to $1,500 per semester to cover the costs of tuition, books, supplies and living expenses. Adult Vocational Training Grant (For students attending a trade school, college or university program/s for a vocational certificate or degree) In addition to completing the attached application, please submit the following: Letter in writing stating why you need the grant, and how it will be used; Certification of Tribal Enrollment in the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Copy of letter of admission from vocational technical school, with certification from school that you are enrolled as a full-time student; Transcript from last school attended, or verification of G.E.D.; Verification that APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID has been completed. Provide this office with a copy of your Student Aid Report. If you do not complete this Application for Federal Student Aid, you are not eligible for this grant program. The Vocational/Technical School you will be attending must submit a Financial Needs Analysis to this office, showing the cost of schooling (tuition, books, fees, supplies), and what other financial aid you will be receiving (PELL grant, student loans, scholarships, etc.) EVERYTHING LISTED ABOVE MUST BE RETURNED TO OUR OFFICE IN A TIMELY MANNER FOR YOU TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR EACH SEMESTER OR BEGINNING OF AN APPROVED TRAINING COURSE FORM | BIA-AVTG Application 2015 – FINAL – AA Student Recognition Award Application MISSION The Coyote Valley Tribal Council recognizes the importance for its tribal members to achieve success throughout their educational career and the importance for tribal members to be recognized for superior academic achievements. PURPOSE The Student Recognition Award Program is hereby developed in effort to recognize superior academic achievements every semester. ELIGIBILITY To be eligible a student must be a Coyote Valley Tribal Member and attending an accredited elementary, junior high, high school, or higher education institution. General Education Diploma’s (GED’s) are not eligible). It is the student’s or parents responsibility to present eligibility documents for award consideration. Original documents must be presented. Original documents must be presented. PROGRAMS STUDENT RECOGNITION AWARD PROGRAM (SRAP) – Recognition is for the following achievements (amounts are subject to available funding) 4.0 GPA or higher $400 award 3.0 – 3.99 GPA $200 award Perfect attendance $100 award Student of the Month $50 award GRADUATING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD PROGRAM (GAAP) – (amounts are subject to available funding). High School Graduate $500 award Graduation with an AA Degree $1,000 award Graduation with a Bachelor’s Degree $2,000 award Graduation with a Master’s or a Doctorate’s Degree $4,000 award FREQUENCY Recognition will be addressed based on official grade report or official graduation notification directly from the accredited education institution each semester (Fall, Spring and Summer) and will be presented at the subsequent General Membership meeting. Other Scholarship Resources The American Indian Graduate Center The AIGC is a national private 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico providing fellowships to American Indian and Alaska Native graduate students throughout the United States. Students will find Native American Scholarships, upcoming events, and current news in Indian country. American Indian College Fund The American Indian College Fund provides Native American student scholarships and programmatic support for the nation’s 34 accredited tribal colleges and universities located on or near Indian reservations to provide access to an affordable, quality higher education to all Native students. American Indian Science & Engineering Society The American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) is a representation of American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, First Nations and other indigenous peoples of North America in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) studies and careers. Students will find scholarships that pertain in field areas of mathematics, science, and engineering. Educationgrant.com EducationGrant.com helps students find financial aid resources they need to pay for their college education. This site brings you the latest financial aid news and resources, including information and deadlines for federal and state education grants, scholarships, and student loans. NCIDC The Northern California Indian Development Council, Inc. is a private nonprofit corporation that annually provides services to 14,000 to 15,000 clients statewide. NCIDC research, develop and administer social and economic development programs designed to meet the needs of Indian and Native American Communities. The Phoenix Scholars Program The Phoenix Scholars is an independent 501(c)(3) organization based out of Stanford University. They connect high school seniors with Stanford undergraduates to help those low-income, first-generation, minority students navigate the college and scholarship application process. At the end of student’s junior year, they are invited to join The Phoenix Scholars class and matched with their mentors. Throughout the summer and school year, the Phoenix mentors and Core Team help our Scholars put their best foot forward by encouraging them to apply to highly-selective universities and scholarship programs, editing their personal statements, and helping them manage the complex application process. Coca-Cola Foundation The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation helps more than 5,550 students annually. In high school, these students began their journey of academic excellence, positive leadership and dedication to service. The organization connects and continually nurtures an extended family of passionate, motivated, service-oriented leaders. Hispanic Scholarship Fund The Hispanic Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to Latino students, as well as related support services. HSF seeks to give students all the tools they need to apply to college, do well in their course work, graduate, enter a profession, excel, help lead our nation going forward, and mentor the generations to come. Indian Health Service (Nursing Program) Students considering a career in health care, they invite you to explore and discover a comprehensive array of student opportunities in Indian health. If students have the motivation and the desire to pursue an Indian health career, they have a road map to achieve it. Scholarships for Women Scholarships that recognize women in all fields of study. These scholarships are third party grantors across the United States. The Siemens Foundation The Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology rewards promising high school students for their original research projects by offering scholarship opportunities and national recognition. Any high school student may apply, individually or as part of a team. Scholarship awards range from $1,000 to $100,000 as students advance in the competition. Student Science – Intel STS The Intel Science Talent Search is a scholarship contest in which the best and brightest high school seniors can demonstrate their research projects for the chance to win a $100,000 college scholarship. Each year, 40 finalists are selected to present their research at a week-long national conference. Finalists receive $5,000 scholarships and have a chance to compete for the grand prize award. The Gates Millennium Scholars The Gates Millennium Scholars Program, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, awards scholarships to minority students who are eligible to receive Federal Pell Grants and have achieved academic excellence in high school. The scholarship helps students cover the portion of their college costs not funded by other grant and scholarship awards. Scholarship applicants must be nominated by an educator familiar with their academic backgrounds. Dell Scholars Program The Dell Scholars Program, sponsored by the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation, carries an award of $20,000 to help students complete their college education. High school seniors who have financial need and plan to enroll immediately in bachelor’s degree programs can qualify by enrolling in approved college readiness programs as high school students and completing a Dell Scholars scholarship application online. Other College Resources FAFSA Federal Student Aid U.S. News – Education California Career Café California Career Resource Network CSU Mentor Website

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 Bernadette Mora HHS Director Contact Phone: (707) 472-3000 email: hhsdirector@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Bernadette Mora 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 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...