"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Youth Leadership Intern Program Offered

This summer Cherokee Nation will allow the opportunity for young Native Americans to learn more about their tribal government and administrative functions, by participating in a special Youth Leadership Intern program.

The Youth Leadership Intern program will introduce participants to various aspects of Cherokee Nation’s government, including its judicial, legislative and executive branches. It will also provide participants the opportunity to acquire decision-making and leadership skills, as well as acquire knowledge about Cherokee history, language and culture. The program begins June 1 and will go through July 31, 2009.

“This is a really great way to learn about your heritage, learn about who you are as a Cherokee and learn about leadership,” said George Roach, Cherokee Nation Career Services, program coordinator.

The internship is sponsored by Cherokee Nation Career Services group and is a paid, 40 hours per week position. Only twelve positions are available and will be filled based upon a review of applications. To qualify, applicants must be Cherokee Nation citizens between the ages of 18 and 21, and reside within the tribe’s 14-county jurisdictional service area. In addition, applicants must submit two letters of recommendation, meet income eligibility, maintain a 3.0 GPA or above for the current school year, and not have interned with the Youth Leadership Intern Program before. Other eligibility requirements may apply.

Applications are available at all area Cherokee Nation offices. Applications must be completed and submitted to Cherokee Nation by April 30. For more information regarding the Youth Leadership Intern program, or to locate an office in your area, please call 918-458-0577.