May 12, 2026
WOODLAND — The Native Dads Network earned a $28,465 grant from the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation to support Native students in the Woodland Joint Unified School District, including enhancements to the Native American Resource Center at Douglass Middle School.
Originally applying for a $10,000 small grant to offer cultural restorative justice classes throughout the school year, Native Dads Network received more than double the requested amount following a site visit and review process by the Yocha Dehe Community Fund. Representatives toured the Native American Resource Center, met with program leaders, and learned more about the organization’s vision before approving the expanded award.
The funding will support “Building Cultural Resilience for Woodland Joint Unified School District,” a one-year initiative focused on strengthening cultural identity and supporting the well-being of Native youth and families.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Tribal Citizens serving on the Yocha Dehe Community Fund Board of Directors for their generous support and leadership,” said Mike Duncan, Chair of Native Dads Network. “This investment reflects a strong commitment to uplifting Native communities, strengthening cultural identity, and supporting the well-being of our youth and families. We are truly honored by your trust and partnership and look forward to putting this support to work in meaningful and impactful ways.”
A portion of the grant will fund cultural restorative justice classes for students. The award will fund upgrades to the Native American Resource Center at Douglass Middle School. Plans include purchasing computers, updated furniture, and collaborative workspaces to create a more welcoming and functional environment. The refreshed space will feature improved technology to host virtual meetings, workshops, and community movie nights.
“Supporting Native youth means investing in identity, connection, and opportunity,” said Mia Durham, Secretary of the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation and Chair of the Yocha Dehe Community Fund. “We’re honored to support Native Dads Network and Woodland Joint Unified School District in creating spaces where students feel seen, supported, and connected to their culture.”
In addition, Native Dads Network plans to install a mini-mural to provide a visible Native representation and foster a stronger sense of belonging for students.
WJUSD staff supported Native Dads Network throughout the grant application process.
The expanded investment marks an important step in continuing to build culturally relevant supports and experiences for Native students and families across WJUSD.
“This grant is an investment in our students and in the cultural strength of our community,” said WJUSD Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin. “We are grateful to Yocha Dehe for their partnership and to Native Dads Network for their leadership and advocacy on behalf of Native students.”
The Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation is committed to strengthening communities and supporting those in need. In 2000, the Tribe established the Community Fund to advance this mission. To date, the Community Fund has established partnerships with more than 500 different organizations throughout Yolo County, the state, and the nation, and granted over $45 million in philanthropic aid to support programs and nitiatives dedicated to assisting people in need.