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Our Story

Founded in 1961, the Native Professional Advancement Center, operating alongside the National Indian Youth Council (NIYC), has been a pioneering force in advocating for the rights and well-being of Native American communities. Born out of a desire to see a world where Native peoples can freely exercise their rights to self-determination and sovereignty, we have spent over six decades dedicated to the empowerment and advancement of Native Americans across the United States.

Six Decades of Growth

The Native Professional Advancement Center, originally called the National Indian Youth Council (NIYC), started in 1961 to help Native American communities. At first, our main goal was to fight for their rights and make sure they could decide things for themselves. Over the years, we've grown and now do a lot more, like helping people get education and jobs. Today, we keep working for Native rights while also helping people learn and find work, aiming to make life better for Native Americans. Looking ahead, we want to do even more to support Native communities, making sure they have what they need to succeed and be happy. We're all about helping Native Americans stand strong, now and in the future.

Our Impact

The Numbers Behind Our Mission

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A woman wearing a denim jacket with pins on it.

Over the years, our efforts have directly benefited thousands of Native Americans. We have successfully delivered the benefits of the Self Determination Act to over 3,233 Natives, facilitated access to education for more than 4,000 students, provided over $25,000 in supportive services assistance, and contributed over $7.3 million in direct earnings and wages. Our work has not only helped individuals but has also contributed to the strengthening of Native communities across the nation.

Educational Opportunities
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We've made Indian Education accessible to more than 4,000 students.

Work Sites
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We've held workforce grant with the Department of Labor since 1972 and operate 76 work sites throughout the state

Our Community

Clyde Warrior Civil Rights Award

Clyde Warrior was a prominent Ponca activist and a key figure in the 1960s Native American civil rights movement. As a co-founder of the National Indian Youth Council (NIYC), his advocacy for Indigenous rights and cultural pride marked a significant era of activism, including direct actions like fish-ins and contributions to the Red Power movement. In recognition of his pioneering efforts, we've introduced the Clyde Warrior Civil Rights Award. This accolade honors individuals making significant strides in Indigenous civil rights today, celebrating their contributions in the spirit of Warrior's enduring legacy of empowerment and activism.

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Our Team

Our board members and staff are the heart and soul of our organization, bringing their passion, dedication, and expertise to the table every day. We're incredibly thankful for the energy they pour into our mission, truly making a difference in our community.

A woman is standing in a field with mountains in the background
A man in a suit and glasses is sitting in a chair
A picture of cynthia hopi pima and muskogee creek field office manager
A woman named amanda warner is a navajo job developer
A woman named victoria navajo is a field office manager
A woman wearing glasses and a denim jacket stands in a field
A picture of cynthia hopi pima and muskogee creek field office manager
A woman named amanda warner is a navajo job developer
A picture of cynthia hopi pima and muskogee creek field office manager
A woman named amanda warner is a navajo job developer
A picture of cynthia hopi pima and muskogee creek field office manager
A woman named amanda warner is a navajo job developer
A picture of cynthia hopi pima and muskogee creek field office manager
A woman named amanda warner is a navajo job developer
A picture of cynthia hopi pima and muskogee creek field office manager
A woman named amanda warner is a navajo job developer
A picture of cynthia hopi pima and muskogee creek field office manager
A woman named amanda warner is a navajo job developer
A picture of cynthia hopi pima and muskogee creek field office manager

Strength in Unity

Whether through participating in our programs, volunteering your time, or making a donation, your support is vital to our continued success. Together, we can improve opportunities for people across the nation.

Get Involved