Our Team
Passionate People Committed to Empowering Indigenous Youth
At the Alliance for Indigenous Children, our dedicated team brings together diverse skills, experiences, and a shared passion for uplifting Indigenous youth through arts, culture, and education. Each member plays a vital role in driving our mission forward and creating lasting impact.
Carolyn Robertson is a passionate advocate for Indigenous youth empowerment with years of experience in nonprofit leadership and cultural preservation. She leads AFIC with a vision to nurture creativity and heritage among the next generation.
Carolyn Robertson
Executive Director
Charles Smith builds strong partnerships with local communities, volunteers, and organizations to expand AFIC’s reach and resources. His focus is on fostering collaboration and support for Indigenous youth initiatives.
Charles Smith
Community Outreach Manager
Wanda Wolf oversees the design and implementation of our arts and cultural programs, ensuring they are inclusive, impactful, and engaging for youth from diverse Indigenous backgrounds.
Wanda Wolf
Program Coordinator
Robert Cook brings deep cultural knowledge and experience as an Indigenous educator. She mentors youth, leads traditional arts workshops, and helps preserve ancestral teachings within our programs.
Robert Cook
Youth Mentor & Cultural Educator
Testimonials
Hear From Those Whose Lives We’ve Touched
At the Alliance for Indigenous Children, our greatest reward is seeing the positive impact on the youth and families we serve. These stories reflect the heartfelt experiences, growth, and inspiration brought about through our programs in arts, culture, and education. Their voices fuel our mission and motivate us every day to do more.
Parents share how our programs have given their children confidence, a sense of belonging, and opportunities to express themselves creatively in a safe and supportive environment. They witness firsthand the positive changes in self-esteem and academic motivation that come from reconnecting with cultural roots.
Karen Hammond
Parents
Youth participants speak proudly about rediscovering their heritage and identity through dance, music, storytelling, and traditional crafts. Many describe how these experiences have helped them overcome challenges, build friendships, and envision brighter futures.
Richard Cole
Youth participants
Volunteers and community leaders reflect on the impact of our programs in strengthening community bonds, preserving important traditions, and nurturing the next generation of leaders. Their stories highlight the deep connections formed and the shared commitment to cultural continuity and empowerment.
Shirley Bowen
Volunteers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the mission of the Alliance for Indigenous Children?
Our mission is to empower, educate, and uplift Indigenous youth through arts, culture, and education, helping them preserve their heritage and build brighter futures.
2. Who do you serve?
We serve Indigenous children and youth, primarily in the Los Angeles area, providing programs that nurture creativity and cultural pride.
3. How can I get involved or volunteer?
You can join us by volunteering your time, skills, or resources. Visit our “Get Involved” page or contact us at info@afic.site to learn about current opportunities.
4. How can I donate to support your programs?
Donations can be made through our website via the “Donate” button. Your support helps us provide workshops, mentorship, and cultural programs for Indigenous youth.
5. Are your programs open to all Indigenous communities?
Yes, we welcome children from all Indigenous backgrounds and work to be inclusive and respectful of diverse traditions.
Why It Matters
Indigenous children face unique challenges—often including limited access to educational resources, cultural disconnection, and social barriers—that can hinder their growth and potential.
At the Alliance for Indigenous Children, we understand that arts, culture, and education are not just programs—they are lifelines. Through creative expression and cultural preservation, Indigenous youth gain a sense of identity, pride, and belonging, which are critical for their mental, emotional, and social well-being.
Our work helps break cycles of marginalization by:
- Empowering youth with confidence and skills that foster academic success and personal growth.
- Reconnecting children with their heritage, strengthening community ties and cultural continuity.
- Providing mentorship and education opportunities that open doors to brighter futures.
By supporting Indigenous children today, we are nurturing resilient leaders, artists, and changemakers of tomorrow — individuals who will carry forward their culture while shaping inclusive, vibrant communities for generations to come.