Running Strong for American Indian Youth has profoundly shaped education in tribal communities through educational programs that span generations and communities across more than 30 states, creating sustainable change in Native schools and families.
Since 2015, with Running Strong support and mentorship, dozens of Native youth and young educators have launched and expanded community-driven and school programs that strengthen culture, language, STEM, and environmental education.
From Cherokee and Hupa language immersion programs to Wailaki social media teaching and Catawba language apps.
nitiatives like Warriors After-School Computer Science (Rosebud), Pathways College Readiness program (Inter-tribal) and REPRESENT (Navajo Nation) teach coding, robotics, and college readiness and exploration.
Souksavanh Keovorabouth (Navajo/Laotian) is elevating intersectional Indigenous scholarship at Northern Arizona University through this first-of-a-kind initiative.
Tara Rouillard’s Indigenous Science Lab at Pine Ridge Girls School integrates Lakota knowledge into science curriculum.
launched by Rose Quintana (Navajo Nation), bridging traditional healing with modern healthcare education.
These projects not only engage thousands of Native students but also model culturally grounded education—centering identity, community, and traditional ecological knowledge.
Recognizing the vital role of educators, Running Strong created the Dreamstarter Teacher® program in 2017.
To date, we has supported over 140 educators in 91 schools, impacting more than 23,000 Native students through classroom innovation, cultural enrichment, and academic support.
Fostering Native identity and college pathways through “Nurturing Native Voices,” connecting students with Haskell Indian Nations University.
Integrating STEM and cultural knowledge through classroom projects and cultural activities.
Leading Nebo School District’s Title VI program, where cultural curriculum increased Native graduation rates from 90% in 2017 to 96.5% in 2024.
Using Native-centered history and math curricula to reconnect students to their ancestors and community values.
At the start of each school year, we equip Native youth with brand-new backpacks filled with school supplies to ensure they are set up for academic success!
Funded hundreds of classrooms and youth projects, directly impacting tens of thousands of Native students.
Funded hundreds of classrooms and youth projects, directly impacting tens of thousands of Native students.
Increased graduation rates through culturally responsive education.
Distributed thousands of school supply backpacks annually to tribal communities across the country.
Supported the professional training of Native educators, mentors, and researchers.
Empowered youth to become community leaders rooted in identity, resilience, and pride.
Nurtured intergenerational mentorship networks linking elders, educators, and youth.
