Urban Native Education Alliance

Urban Native Education Alliance has served the Seattle, WA community since 2008 as a grassroots organization dedicated to empowering Native youth through education, culture, and tradition. Born from the passion of individuals committed to Native educational advancement, UNEA has grown into a mature, community-led organization that brings together elders, educators, students, families, and volunteers in a supportive network. The organization's mission centers on engaging all generations to uplift urban Native youth, recognizing that educational success requires not just academic support but also cultural connection and community belonging. UNEA's leadership, including Chair Sarah Sense-Wilson and board members with deep roots in Seattle's Native communities, brings decades of experience in advocacy, community organizing, and education equity work. What distinguishes UNEA is its intergenerational approach—the organization honors the wisdom of elders while amplifying student voice and centering youth leadership in all decision-making. Operating from a deep understanding of the specific challenges facing Native students in urban settings, UNEA creates spaces where young people feel seen, valued, and connected to their culture and community. The organization's commitment to its core values of Integrity, Interconnectedness, Inclusion, and Service reflects a holistic vision of what it means to support Native youth in thriving academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.