Tribal Council Resolution Recognizes New Youth Council

HAYWARD, WI – A new Lac Courte Oreilles (LCO) Youth Council has been established by special resolution adopted by the LCO Tribal Governing Board February 6, 2012. The new Youth Council will give voice to tribal youth and provide them opportunities to develop as leaders in their community.

Part of LCO Tribal Chairman Gordon Thayer’s “Mission: Possible” theme to build stronger infrastructure and provide opportunities for LCO tribal members to contribute to their community, the new Youth Council already has elected officers and began holding meetings last September.

“The newly-formed Lac Courte Oreilles Youth Council builds hope for our future as we see leadership in the making. The Tribal Governing Board is most encouraged by these young people who are highly motivated, focused and determined on producing results. We extend them our congratulations and full support,” said Thayer.

The LCO Youth Council started as a project under the LCO Ojibwe Community College Extension Youth Development Grant funded by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

In an effort to get the resolution adopted, Youth Council Members Ryan Bunker, Josh Martin and Reyna Wemigwans appeared before the Tribal Governing Board to state why the resolution should pass and how it will help the youth of the LCO community. Their comments focused on the importance of addressing the needs of LCO youth so they may better serve their community, stay involved in positive activities, and recruit others to join in these efforts. Their desire to put a best foot forward by planning community events for youth and families will leave a legacy for the future and prepare the way for future Youth Councils.

Youth Council members are currently working on establishing their charter and bylaws, which will direct the conduct of the Council. They will periodically report and advise the Tribal Governing Board on business involving the youth of the Lac Courte Oreilles Band. Jennifer Cadotte, Youth & Community Educator at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe Community College, and Kim Lambert, LCO Truancy Prevention, helped to formulate the LCO Youth Council.

Lac Courte Oreilles youth are encouraged to participate in meetings, which are held each Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Tribal Governing Board Conference Room.