Evergreen Magazine - IFMAT-IV October 2023

Emotional Intelligence

nues for candid sharing of experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Facilitators adept in emotional intelligence guaran- tee these interactions are inclusive and respectful, nurturing a safe space where participants can discuss emotional sub- jects without fear of judgment. Portland State University’s Institute for Tribal Government Certificate of Tribal Relation Program has effectively trained over 300 allies from outside the tribal community to contribute to a peer support program. Continuous Engagement: Sus- taining participants’ engagement necessitates the active application of emotional intelligence. Regular check-ins, encompassing assessments of emotional well-being alongside progress, offer vital insights into participants’ experiences. Emotional intelligence equips facilitators to promptly address challenges, proffer resources for stress management, and ensure participants feel cherished and supported in their forestry pursuits. Conclusion: Efforts to recruit un- tapped urban Tribal youth into forestry careers demand a comprehensive strat- egy that pays homage to their cultural heritage while nurturing emotional bonds to the environment. By embed- ding emotional intelligence within every phase of the strategy – from fostering cultural awareness and sensitivity to sustaining continuous engagement – a holistic and resonant approach emerges. This approach not only equips partici- pants with the requisite skills for forestry careers but also fosters a profound sense of identity, pride, and belonging, safeguarding the

gence plays a pivotal role in fostering emotional investment in these undertak- ings. Participants’ emotions are intricately interwoven with their ties to the land and community, and acknowledging these emotions fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment. By involving youth in the planning and execution of these proj- ects, emotional connections are further solidified, leading to a lasting impact. The Wisdom of the Elders, Inc. Workforce Development LLC offers internships and community projects in collaboration with Portland Parks and local county contracts. While the ladders are in place, the time has come to establish the interconnect- ing webs. Celebrating Traditions and Culture: Infusing cultural traditions and practices into forestry activities acknowledges the emotional significance of these elements in the lives of urban Tribal youth. Emo- tional intelligence guides facilitators in navigating these intersections, ensur- ing traditions are treated with respect and celebrated. By highlighting the intergenerational knowledge transfer intrinsic to forestry practices aligned with Indigenous values, participants foster an emotional connection to their heritage and the environment. Networking and Peer Support: Establishing a support network is pivotal for preserving participants’ emotional well-being throughout their forestry journey. Emotional intelligence forms the bedrock of forging connections among peers. Networking events provide ave-

Practical Skill Building: Forestry skill-building workshops offer a hands-on avenue for learning. Emotional intelli- gence empowers facilitators to recognize and address the emotional impact of these activities. Acknowledging partic- ipants’ emotions linked to skill devel- opment nurtures a supportive learning atmosphere where emotional well-being is as paramount as technical competence. By supplying constructive feedback and positive reinforcement, facilitators contribute to participants’ emotional resilience and motivation to excel in for- estry. The Northwest Youth Corps Tribal Stewardship serves as a notable example that warrants expansion and connection with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and other federal agencies. See QR code. Scholarships and Internships: Scholarships and internships pave the way for urban Tribal youth to embark on forestry education and gather practical experience. Emotional intelligence proves invaluable by acknowledging potential stressors and challenges these individuals might encounter throughout their edu- cational and career journeys. Scholarship and internship programs can seamlessly weave emotional support alongside pro- fessional guidance, ensuring participants possess the tools to navigate challeng- es while safeguarding their emotional well-being. Community Projects: Collaborative community projects provide a platform for urban Tribal youth to actively engage in forestry initiatives. Emotional intelli-

sustainable steward- ship of Indian forest land for generations to come.

NUIFC

NW Youth Corp

Don Motanic and Northwest Youth Corps friends, NYC, Eugene, Oregon.

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