Imagine your first experience rappelling down a mountain; or what it feels like to camp in the wilderness for several days. Imagine learning the history and cultural significance of a particular rock formation or plant you’ve seen but never known; or volunteering at a local zoo that features animals from your own back yard.

These are just a few examples of what the National Indian Youth Leadership Project (NIYLP) has been doing for over 25 years to empower the lives of Native American youth. Through year-round adventure-based learning at Laguna Middle School, Project Venture is fostering youth leaders who are culturally sensitive and promoting healthy lifestyles as an example for future generations.