7th Annual Community Networking Breakfast

Author: Jordyn Wyman

On Thursday, February 19, the Native American Fatherhood and Families Association (NAFFA) is excited to welcome community members, partners, and supporters to its 7th Annual Community Networking Breakfast. This event brings together individuals and organizations who share a common goal: strengthening families and building healthier, more connected communities.

NAFFA has a unique and deeply rooted mission to “strengthen, keep, and reunite families by responsibly involving fathers and mothers in the lives of their children, families, and communities.” The organization began its work serving families within various Native American tribes, focusing on culturally grounded support, education, and family engagement. From the beginning, NAFFA recognized the importance of family connection and parental involvement as the foundation for strong communities.

As the organization continued to grow, NAFFA saw that its mission and curriculum could benefit many more families and communities. Over the years, they wanted to expanded their outreach. This led to NAFFA beginning building relationships with other groups who shared similar values and goals.

In an effort to reach communities seeking to strengthen families and create a better future, NAFFA initially focused on connecting with faith-based organizations and professionals working within the criminal justice system. These groups often work closely with families in need of support and shared NAFFA’s commitment to families and the community. This led to the creation of the Community Networking Breakfast, an inclusive gathering open to a wide range of community members and organizations.

At the Community Networking Breakfast, attendees are invited to enjoy breakfast while learning more about NAFFA’s programs and services. Participants will hear from Executive Director Karra Papa, Founder Albert Pooley, and representatives from several departments, including the training department, youth programs, and the wellness center. Each department shares an overview of its work, highlighting how their programs support families and contribute to positive change within the community.

This gathering provides a valuable opportunity for attendees to connect, ask questions, and learn how NAFFA’s services can be used as resources within their own work and communities. It also creates space for collaboration, relationship-building, and the exchange of ideas among individuals who are passionate about making a difference.

Every member of the NAFFA team brings a strong sense of purpose and passion to the work they do. They are eager to share their knowledge, experiences, and resources with others. The goal of the Community Networking Breakfast is not only to grow attendance each year, but to strengthen partnerships, deepen relationships, and encourage attendees to take what they learn and apply it in ways that benefit their own communities.

Interest in the event continues to grow. Last year, the Community Networking Breakfast welcomed 40 attendees. This year, outreach efforts have more than paid off. Outreach Coordinator Valerie Hollodaugh shared, “We currently have 75 people coming.” Valerie also emphasized the importance of outreach, stating, “Outreach is always a positive thing because it gives us the opportunity to share the message we have to offer.” She is excited to see how the connections made at this year’s breakfast will continue to grow and impact their efforts.

NAFFA is looking forward to welcoming everyone who is able to attend the 7th Annual Community Networking Breakfast and is grateful for the continued support of the community. 

For individuals who are unable to attend the breakfast, there are still opportunities to connect with NAFFA. Community members are welcome to sign up for a guided tour of the facilities to learn more about the organization and its programs firsthand. The next tour will take place in April, so be sure to watch for upcoming sign-up information.

NAFFA remains committed to strengthening families and communities, and events like the Community Networking Breakfast play an important role in continuing that mission. Through connection, collaboration, and shared purpose, NAFFA looks forward to building a stronger future together.