Leadership Development
The Cherokee Leadership Development initiative supports lifelong, culture-based learning that gives members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians opportunities to develop strong leadership abilities and to serve successfully in leadership roles. The goal of the youth and adult leadership programs is to produce generations of strong Cherokee leaders who draw on tribal culture and values.
As the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) has improved the quality of life of its members, new leaders have been needed to join the ranks of those already serving as leaders in the tribal government, the casino owned by the EBCI, community organizations, local businesses and Cherokee Preservation Foundation. The Foundation convened members of the community to develop leadership programs that are grounded in traditional Cherokee values. The purpose of these culture-based leadership programs is to introduce the concept of selfless leadership and encourage emerging leaders to draw on Cherokee traditions in their decision making process.
For example, the Foundation encourages community members to work in the spirit of ga-du-gi, which in the Cherokee language means “working together for a common goal” and is a Cherokee tradition in which community members help neighbors in need. Members of traditional ga-du-gi work groups give a great deal to their community without seeking recognition for their actions.
Cherokee Youth Council
The mission of the Cherokee Youth Council (CYC) is to bring back the valued voice of youth that was the tradition in the days of the Cherokee Grand Council and enable youth to serve their community and develop leadership skills.
Costa Rica Eco-Study Tour
In 2005, Cherokee Preservation Foundation and the EBCI Cooperative Extension Program partnered to develop a cross-cultural eco-study program involving EARTH University in Costa Rica.
Jones-Bowman Leadership Award
The Jones-Bowman Leadership Award Program makes financial awards to undergraduate college students committed to developing their leadership skills. The program honors the memory and leadership of Principal Chief Leon Jones and Mr. James Bowman, who were founding members of the Board of Directors of Cherokee Preservation Foundation.
The Right Path
The Right Path, “Du-yu dv-i,” program provides unique leadership learning that tailors contemporary leadership development competencies from the wisdom of Cherokee ancestral cultural leadership.
Cherokee Day of Caring
For many centuries, the Cherokee have assisted members of their tribe who have needed help—tending gardens, fixing roofs, rebuilding fire-damaged houses, etc. In 2005, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Cherokee Preservation Foundation and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and Resort built on this ga-du-gi tradition of community service by organizing and sponsoring a new annual event called Cherokee Day of Caring.