NAFC Aboriginal Youth Council - Conseil des jeunes autochtones

The NAFC Aboriginal Youth Council (AYC) aims to create positive change for Friendship Centre youth through inclusion, empowerment, and culture. Their mission includes increasing communication, training opportunities, and youth involvement within the Friendship Centre Movement. They also focus on developing youth leaders, raising awareness on issues facing urban Aboriginal youth, and supporting their spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical development. The AYC defines youth as individuals aged 14-24. The AYC discusses and addresses priority issues such as education, wellness, suicide prevention, cultural preservation, homelessness, leadership, employment, and youth involvement in decision-making processes. The AYC is part of the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC), which supports urban Aboriginal people by providing culturally enhanced programs and services. The NAFC monitors government activities and acts as a communication center for the Friendship Centres and Provincial/Territorial Associations. The NAFC is governed by a voluntary Board of Directors and actively participates in external committees and associations related to urban Aboriginal issues. The AYC is composed of the Youth Executive, President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretariat, and Regional Reps, and has committees focusing on Programs, Policies & Procedures, and Communications.