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- By Levi Rickert
Two Feathers Native American Family Services in Humboldt County has been selected as a 2026 Leadership Award recipient by The James Irvine Foundation, receiving a $350,000 grant to grow its culturally rooted youth mental health programs.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Virgil Moorehead Jr. and Program Manager Amy Mathieson, Two Feathers is being honored for reshaping Native youth mental health care in Humboldt County — co-creating programs with young people and putting culture at the heart of healing.
What started with a single therapist has evolved into a countywide initiative providing nearly 7,900 counseling sessions each year to 280 youth across 12 school districts. The organization integrates clinical mental health care with traditional cultural practices and paid workforce development opportunities.
Through its Youth Ambassador Program, participants receive counseling support, reconnect with Native traditions, and build job skills and leadership experience. Graduates have moved on to employment, higher education, and leadership roles within their communities.
The 2026 award coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Irvine Leadership Awards, which recognize forward-thinking leaders strengthening communities across California. Since 2006, the program has invested more than $35 million in 138 leaders statewide.
Two Feathers will join fellow honorees at a February 23 reception in Sacramento, bringing together policymakers and community leaders to celebrate this year’s recipients.
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