Native American Services Program
Connecting Youth to Culture
Our Native American Services Program supports healing and cultural connection for Native youth in our care at the Ranch.
The program is rooted in relationships and offers wraparound, culturally responsive mental health care. We partner with families, community members, and the broader treatment team to provide holistic support during each youth’s stay—care that continues as they transition back to their home communities.
Participation is optional and available to youth who are enrolled in a tribe or have knowledge of their tribal lineage. Youth must also express an interest in participating in the program’s cultural activities, which are designed to promote belonging, growth, and well-being.
Cultural Connection in Action
Smudging
Smudging is a traditional practice of prayer and cleansing using sacred plants like cedar or sweetgrass. Offered during the school day and open to both youth and staff.
Wellbriety
Blending Native teachings with 12-step recovery principles, Wellbriety supports youth facing substance use challenges. Offered in collaboration with our Chemical Dependency team, it provides a culturally supportive space for healing and reflection.
Mustang Nation
Mustang Nation is a cultural club for Native youth featuring traditional games, crafts, guest speakers, and educational activities that celebrate and strengthen cultural identity.
Honoring Heritage in the Classroom
Our Native American Services program creates meaningful opportunities for Native youth to connect with their culture, strengthen their identity, and build a sense of belonging.
While centered on supporting Native youth, the program enriches the entire Yellowstone Academy community at the Ranch—infusing Native heritage into everyday learning, guiding staff year-round, and offering schoolwide cultural presentations.
Understanding History to Support Healing
As part of onboarding at YBGR, all incoming staff watch the video “History of Native Americans & the Montana Reservation System” to support culturally competent care.
This video was made possible through a SAMHSA grant in partnership with Bill Snell, CEO of the Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council (MRTLC), and features Georgette Boggio of Elk River Law Office, P.L.L.P.
We’re proud to share it with families, community partners, and others seeking a deeper understanding of the history that shapes the experiences of many of the youth we serve.
Funding & Access
Our Native American Services are funded through a generous grant from the Gianforte Family Foundation. We integrate programming into PRTF care at the Ranch and coordinate educational activities in partnership with Yellowstone Academy.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us online or call (406) 606-4075 to learn more about getting a child enrolled in our services.