The Firekeepers Youth Council (FYC) is an Indigenous student organization dedicated to uplifting Native youth through education, cultural and leadership development, and community service. FYC was formerly known as the Native American Club, the group was renamed around 2017 after a vote by that year’s officers. They chose the name Firekeepers to honor the Potawatomi people, known as the Keepers of the Fire. Over the years, the council has grown into a space where students can strengthen their identities, explore their futures, and give back to their communities. Joanna Mitchell, who has served as the advisor for the past eight years, shared that the group has remained active and consistent in its goals each school year. These goals include:
Visiting colleges and exploring career paths
Participating in community service projects within the tribal community
Organizing fundraisers to support youth activities
Attending both national and local leadership conferences, such as the annual UNITY Conference
In the first meeting held at the High School on September 11, students discussed the following:
Boys & Girls Club Membership Forms
Code of Conduct Forms
Future Meeting Dates & Teen Nights
Officer Applications and Upcoming Interviews
There was also a discussion about the upcoming We-Ta-Se Veterans Powwow, a significant cultural event honoring Native veterans. This year’s Powwow will be on Saturday, September 27. The event is free and open to the public. FYC is working a taco truck to raise funds for our youth activities, come out to support us, everyone is encouraged to attend the Powwow!
