United Natives partners with Arizona Cardinals for youth mental health fundraiser

United Natives, a Phoenix-based nonprofit, is collaborating with the Arizona Cardinals on a ticket fundraiser for the team’s Nov. 23 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to ICT.

A portion of every ticket sold through a link with United Natives will be donated to the organization to support youth mental health and community outreach. Founded by Dr. Crystal Lee, Navajo, the nonprofit began as a mentorship program in 2010 and expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide tele-mental health services in 26 states. Executive Director Tennalle John, Diné, said the group also hosts youth sports camps across Arizona.

John said the fundraiser could lead to a larger collaboration with the Cardinals, possibly a future Native American Heritage night. “This is more of a starting initiative that could grow into something much larger in the future,” Lee was quoted as saying.