2026 Elders & Youth Conference

Koht'aene: Our People Connected, Grateful, and Healthy

Elections will take place at the conference on Day 2 (must be present) for the Honorary Elder Director Seat and Honorary Youth Director Seat.

Free Food, Swag, Door Prizes, and Fun Hands-On Activities
Register Now

Date & Time:

Tuesday, July 14, Conference 2:00-5:00pm
Ahtna Cultural Center at NPS

Wednesday, July 15, Conference 2:00-5:00pm
Ahtna Cultural Center at NPS

Thursday, July 16, Conference 2:00-4:30pm
Ahtna Cultural Center at NPS
Dinner & Sobriety Walk: 4:45-5:30pm
CRNA to Riverfront Property & Back

Date: July 16 - 18, 2024
2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Daily
For Elders and youth (12-24 years old). Youth under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
2026 Elders & Youth Conference

Koht'aene: Our People Connected, Grateful, and Healthy

Elections will take place at the conference on Day 2 (must be present) for the Honorary Elder Director Seat and Honorary Youth Director Seat.

Free Food, Swag, Door Prizes, and Fun Hands-On Activities
Register Now

Date & Time:

Tuesday, July 14, Conference 2:00-5:00pm
Ahtna Cultural Center at NPS

Wednesday, July 15, Conference 2:00-5:00pm
Ahtna Cultural Center at NPS

Thursday, July 16, Conference 2:00-4:30pm
Ahtna Cultural Center at NPS
Dinner & Sobriety Walk: 4:45-5:30pm
CRNA to Riverfront Property & Back

Date: July 16 - 18, 2024
2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Daily | Ages 12+
For Elders and youth (12-24 years old). Youth under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Requirements For Elections

Honorary Elder Purpose: To advise the CRNA Board of Directors and CEO.

Qualifications:

  • Tribal member of one of the 6 compacting villages (Cantwell, Gakona, Gulkana, Kluti-Kaah, Tazlina, Mentasta) who exemplifies the highest of values and qualities important to tribal members.
  • This individual is recognized as a leader, an educator, and preserver of Ahtna Culture whose contributions have benefited Ahtna people throughout his/her life.
  • Must reside in the CRNA service area.
  • Must be able to travel.
  • Age requirement of 62 or older.
  • Must pass background check and drug/alcohol test in accordance with CRNA Board Policy.
  • May attend board committee meetings, must attend regular board meetings.
30
DAYS
7
HRS
11
MINS
31
SECS

Honorary Youth Purpose: To provide this representative with appropriate skills for future leadership in the Ahtna region.

Qualifications:

  • Tribal member of one of the 6 compacting villages (Cantwell, Gakona, Gulkana, Kluti-Kaah, Tazlina, Mentasta).
  • Must reside in the CRNA service area.
  • Must be able to travel.
  • Must be attending school in grades 9-12, ages 14-18 years, and maintain a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
  • Behavior must be demonstrative of CRNA’s Mission Statement (drug and alcohol free).
  • Must pass background check and drug/alcohol test in accordance with CRNA Board Policy.
  • Must maintain confidentiality.
  • Must be chaperoned by an adult during travel at AFN and any other travel outside of the region.
  • Must submit and give oral report of Youth and Elder Conference at CRNA Annual Meeting.
  • Attend CRNA’s Regular Board Meetings, if it does not interfere with school attendance.
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Participate in Hands-On Activities
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Create Lasting Connections

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Share in Cultural Learning
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For Many Years

The CRNA Elders & Youth Conference has bridged the gap between generations, providing an opportunity for learning, sharing, and growing together.

Our team understands the unique challenges of living in a quickly changing world and we are committed to fostering culture and respect.

Group Discussions
Ahtna Language
Sobriety Walk
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Register Now

By signing up, you and all names added will be entered into a drawing for a $50 Amazon gift card. The winner will be announced at the event.

You must be present to win.

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Registration not required to attend event.
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“Today’s youth have the challenge of learning in two directions – traditionally and contemporarily. Supporting this duality in youth means talking about where they came from and where they’re going – about the leaders that we had and the leaders that we need.”

– Lacayah Engebretson
Director, Youth Development and Community Health Grants

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The CRNA Elders &
Youth Conference

Is a transformative event designed to empower Ahtna elders and youth by creating a supportive, culturally rich environment for fostering multi-generational connections. This conference is more than just an event. We are focusing on our connection to culture and each other as prevention.

By participating, you will gain historical knowledge, build lasting relationships, and contribute to the preservation of our cultural heritage.

Register Now
For More Information

Lacayah Engebretson
Director, Youth Development and Community Health Grants