V.I.B.E.S.: Vibrant Indigenous Bonds, Empowerment, and Spirit

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V.I.B.E.S.: Vibrant Indigenous Bonds, Empowerment, and Spirit *

Welcome to VIBES: Our Circle for Kinship, Culture, and Authentic Self

Vibrant Indigenous Bonds, Empowerment, and Spirit (VIBES) is an essential monthly program dedicated to fostering holistic wellness among Indigenous youth in Los Angeles County. Hosted by Indigenous Pride LA, we provide a dedicated, safe space where youth can feel affirmed in their identity, culture, and relationships.

Register for V.I.B.E.S.

What is V.I.B.E.S.?

VIBES is a culturally grounded program designed specifically for Indigenous youth (ages 12-17) in the Greater Los Angeles Area. We place a special focus on creating an inclusive environment for Two-Spirit, Indigiqueer, and Indigenous LGBTQPAI+ youth, ensuring every participant feels a strong sense of belonging.

Our program integrates physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health into every activity. Through expert partnerships, we offer:

Mental Health Workshops:

Culturally congruent support led by Indigenous providers.

Harm Prevention:

Age-appropriate queer sexual health education by experts from our partner org.

Cultural Immersion:

Classes led by knowledgekeepers covering traditional dance, language, and cooking.

Future Planning:

College preparatory counseling and resource workshops.

V

Vibrant

Honoring the energy, life, authenticity, and visibility of our youth.

Our Core Principles: The Six Pillars of Wellness

Vocational, Emotional, Mental, Physical, Social, Spiritual

I

Indigenous

Centering inherent identity and deep cultural roots.

The VIBES acronym represents the core values we instill in every participant to help them lead and thrive:

B

Bonds

Creating strong kinship and connections for mutual health and support.

E

Empowerment

Building the skills and confidence necessary to thrive..

S

Spirit

Honoring Two-Spirit roles and all personal identities, including Indigiqueer and LGBTQPAI+.

Why Enroll Your Youth?

For parents, guardians, and school counselors, VIBES offers a unique support system that addresses the "whole child" while navigating the complexities of urban Indigenous life.

  • We host monthly, confidential group sessions that reduce stress related to identity-based discrimination.

  • We measure impact across four health domains—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual—to ensure real progress.

  • Through our partnership with United American Indian Involvement, Inc. (UAII), we link families to the largest Native American healthcare provider in LA.

  • We collaborate with Indigenous higher education prep organizations to foster higher education attainment and vocational training.

  • Every monthly session serves nutritious food, improving access to healthy options for all participants.

What Sets VIBES Apart?

Unlike general youth programs, VIBES is Indigenous-led and built on a six-pillar model of holistic wellness that directly addresses the Social Determinants of Health.

  • Our curriculum is delivered by a network of specialists, including an Indigenous mental health provider and the City of Angels Two-Spirit Society.

  • We fill a critical gap by providing trauma-informed programming that is specifically tailored for Two-Spirit, Indigiqueer, and Indigenous LGBTQ+ youth.

  • Activities take place at established Indigenous provider venues, keeping youth connected to their community's existing resources.

Addressing a Decades-Long Community Need

Urban Indigenous youth in Los Angeles have long faced unique challenges, including systemic barriers to health equity and cultural isolation. For decades, there has been a profound lack of programming that is both culturally specific and trauma-informed.

Register for V.I.B.E.S.

VIBES is the modern answer to these historical gaps, providing the essential cultural reconnection and spiritual wellbeing that Indigenous families in the Greater Los Angeles Area have urgently needed to ensure the long-term health and success of their children.