Hello everyone, my name is Amber Means, and I am a proud member of the Hopi Tribe from the village of Walpi. I graduated with my Bachelor of Social Work in May 2025 and am currently completing my Master of Social Work at Arizona State University, specializing in Policy, Administration, and Community (PAC). I am on track to graduate in May 2026. I am also a single mother to my teenage daughter, and everything I do is to build a stable, meaningful future for both of us.
This summer, I was honored to be selected for the Udall Foundation Native American Congressional Internship, a highly competitive program that places Native students in Washington, D.C. to gain hands-on experience in federal policy and leadership. The internship runs from May 25 through August 2, and it is an incredible opportunity to grow professionally and advocate for Indigenous communities at the national level. While I am in Washington, D.C., my daughter will be safely staying with our family, who love her deeply and will take great care of her. Their support allows me to fully commit to this opportunity. However, during this time, I will not be earning income. Even while I am away, I still need to maintain my household so my daughter and I can return to stability. Covering rent and basic living expenses during these months has become a significant financial challenge.
This support will allow me to focus on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity without risking the stability I’ve worked so hard to build. This internship is a major step toward my long-term goal of working in policy and community advocacy. After I return, I will be entering my field with the education, experience, and determination to create a better future for my family and give back to my community. Any support—no matter the amount—would mean so much to us. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser is equally appreciated. Thank you for your support, encouragement, and belief in my journey. Askwuli (thank you), Amber Means
This summer, I was honored to be selected for the Udall Foundation Native American Congressional Internship, a highly competitive program that places Native students in Washington, D.C. to gain hands-on experience in federal policy and leadership. The internship runs from May 25 through August 2, and it is an incredible opportunity to grow professionally and advocate for Indigenous communities at the national level. While I am in Washington, D.C., my daughter will be safely staying with our family, who love her deeply and will take great care of her. Their support allows me to fully commit to this opportunity. However, during this time, I will not be earning income. Even while I am away, I still need to maintain my household so my daughter and I can return to stability. Covering rent and basic living expenses during these months has become a significant financial challenge.
This support will allow me to focus on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity without risking the stability I’ve worked so hard to build. This internship is a major step toward my long-term goal of working in policy and community advocacy. After I return, I will be entering my field with the education, experience, and determination to create a better future for my family and give back to my community. Any support—no matter the amount—would mean so much to us. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser is equally appreciated. Thank you for your support, encouragement, and belief in my journey. Askwuli (thank you), Amber Means
Organizer
