LAWTON, OK – The Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation has announced more than $13.5 million in grants to support impactful programs across the region and the nation. Among the recipients is the Tribal Leadership Council (TLC) that was awarded $50,000 through the 2025 San Manuel Cares grant cycle to strengthen its training programs and expand opportunities for new tribal leaders.
“We are deeply grateful to Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation for their generous support and belief in our mission,” said Justin Barrett, TLC President. “This grant will allow us to expand training programs about governance for new tribal leaders, and to continue building partnerships with tribes, universities, and organizations for specialized instruction. These new leaders are responsible for economic development, health, education and the welfare of their communities, so investing in training helps create good leadership.”
The goals of the Tribal Leadership Council align with the San Manuel Cares “Empowering Lives” giving pillar, which supports underserved and at-risk communities through essential services such as food, housing, legal aid, senior care, and workforce development.
“For over two decades, the call of Yawa’ – a Serrano value meaning ‘to act on one’s beliefs’ – has guided our giving programs and community efforts,” said Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation. “We are proud to support organizations like the Tribal Leadership Council that uplift our communities by reaching some of the most vulnerable populations to provide critical services.”
The Tribal Leadership Council is a national organization committed to advancing the sovereignty, leadership, and long-term sustainability of tribal nations across the U.S. Founded with a mission to build capacity and strengthen tribal governance, TLC provides dynamic programs, professional development opportunities, and practical tools that empower tribal leaders, administrators, and policymakers to create lasting, positive change within their communities.
