PHOENIX– The Tribal Leadership Council (TLC) is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s prestigious Impact Awards, recognizing two outstanding organizations whose dedication to Tribal communities has made a profound and lasting difference across Indian Country.
President’s Community Impact Award: Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation
The President’s Community Impact Award is presented at the discretion of the TLC President and recognizes an organization for going above and beyond in their support of Native-led nonprofits and organizations, while advancing priorities that are important to the TLC community.
This year, TLC President Justin Barrett has selected the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation (YSMN) as the recipient of this distinguished honor. YSMN has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to uplifting Tribal nations, Native-led nonprofits, and educational institutions through its San Manuel Cares Program, a robust philanthropic initiative that channels resources and support directly into communities that need it most.
Beyond the San Manuel Cares Program, YSMN’s community impact extends throughout the Inland Empire region of California and Las Vegas through the work of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino and the Palms Cares initiative for the Palms Casino in Las Vegas, further amplifying their reach and reinforcing their long-standing commitment to the wellbeing of Native peoples and surrounding communities.
“YSMN exemplifies what it means to be a true partner to Native communities,” said TLC President Justin Barrett. “Their consistent, generous, and visionary support of Tribal nations and Native-led organizations makes them a worthy and inspiring recipient of this award.”
Chair’s Circle of Impact Award: Indigenous Pact
The Chair’s Circle of Impact Award is presented by the TLC Foundation Chair and recognizes an organization for its sustained and broad support of Tribal initiatives.
TLC Foundation Chair Dr. Crystal Miller has selected Indigenous Pact as the recipient of this year’s Chair’s Circle of Impact Award. Indigenous pact has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to strengthening the Native nonprofit ecosystem by providing meaningful support to numerous Native-led organizations that are driving change and self-determination across Indian Country.
“Indigenous Pact has shown what it means to be a true advocate for Native communities at scale,” said TLC Foundation Chair Dr. Crystal Miller. “Their work touches countless organizations and the people they serve. We are honored to recognize their tireless commitment.”
About the Tribal Leadership Council
The Tribal Leadership Council (TLC) is a national organization committed to advancing the sovereignty, leadership, and long-term sustainability of Tribal nations across the United States. Founded with a mission to build capacity and strengthen Tribal governance, TLC provides dynamic programs, professional development opportunities, and practical tools that empower Tribal leaders, administrators, and policymakers to create lasting, positive change within their communities.
TLC serves as a hub for leadership training, strategic planning, and intergovernmental collaboration, offering a variety of in-person and virtual events throughout the year – including its signature Annual Tribal Leadership Conference and a series of hands-on regional trainings and workshops. These gatherings provide Tribal officials and staff with access to industry experts, peer-to-peer networking, and proven strategies for addressing today’s most pressing challenges in areas such as economic development, governance, public health, infrastructure, and community engagement.
To learn more about TLC’s programs, resources, and upcoming events, visit: www.TribalLeadershipCouncil.com
About the Tribal Leadership Council Foundation
The TLC Foundation serves as the charitable giving arm of the Tribal Leadership Council, dedicated to investing directly in the growth and development of Native leadership across Indian Country. Through its scholarship programs, the Foundation provides Tribal leaders and staff with access to critical training opportunities, professional development, and travel support – ensuring that the next generation of leaders has the resources they need to lead with strength and vision. The TLC Foundation is committed to building capacity within Tribal nations by removing financial barriers to learning and empowering those who serve their communities every day.
Media Contact: communications@triballeadershipcouncil.com

