05/30/2026
Form an All Haudenosaunee Cultural Sports Activators Alliance and travel across our Territories to uplift the young people 😀
That would be similar to the White Roots of Peace movement back in the late 60's and early 70's
Former Nike executive and N7 founder Sam McCracken has launched the Sam McCracken Youth Project (SMCYP), a new Native-led nonprofit dedicated to supporting Indigenous youth through culturally grounded wellness, leadership, and mentorship programs.
McCracken, a citizen of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, announced the initiative in March 2026 following his retirement from Nike after helping lead Indigenous-focused programs for decades.
The organization aims to serve more than 5,000 Native youth across 30 tribal communities within its first five years. Leaders say the project will focus on mental, physical, and cultural wellness while addressing challenges facing Indigenous youth, including mental health disparities and access to opportunity.
Rather than requiring young people to travel long distances, the project plans to bring programs directly into tribal communities through sports camps, leadership summits, outdoor experiences, traditional activities, and mentorship opportunities.
The first major activation is scheduled for June 2026 at the University of Montana and will feature Indigenous athletes and mentors working directly with Native youth.
Supporters say the initiative reflects a growing movement of Indigenous-led solutions designed to strengthen communities by investing in the next generation.
What do you think is the most important way to support Indigenous youth today?
Sources:
• Sam McCracken Youth Project
• National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED)
• Reservation Economic Summit (RES)
• Native News Online
