Prevention and Recovery: A Multi-Agency Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Collaboration: A Quarterly Newsletter: 2014 Spring, V2(7)

2014·1.2 MB·English

Volume 2, No. 7
Spring 2014
“Humankind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread within it. Whatever we do to the
web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together. All things connect.” — Chief Seattle, 1854
A Quarterly Newsletter n A Multi-Agency Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Collaboration
Strengthening Federal-Tribal Partnerships
INSIDE Perspectives From
Director’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
SAMHSA Regional Administrators
Steven D . Whitehorn,

Public Health Advisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

SAMHSA’s leadership team includes Regional The Value of Partnerships
Juanita Mendoza —

Administrators (RAs) in each of the 10 Both Dr. Perez and Dr. Smith emphasize the
A Voice for Native Children . . . . . . . . . . .4

Department of Health and Human Services complexity of substance use, abuse, and
Drug-Free Communities Funds
(HHS) Regions. In their work to advance addiction and the need to address the problem
Help Chariho Tri-Town Task Force

SAMHSA’s mission and implement its with holistic and integrated programs. Such
Substance Use Prevention Efforts . . . . . . .4

strategic vision, RAs develop and lead collab­ programs ensure safe and stable housing;
The Eastern Band of Cherokee

orations to improve the delivery of behav­ enhance connections to positive and healthy
Indians Employ Juvenile Justice

Treatment Continuum . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
ioral health services. They are a critical part communities (families, employers, friends, and
of SAMHSA’s communication, connection, extended communities); and support jobs (or
Suicide Prevention: A Culture-Based

Approach in Indian Country . . . . . . . . . .6
and collaboration with regional, state, and education for young people), activities, and a
local communities. Because RAs are engaged sense of purpose.
OJJDP’s Online University Offering Tribal

with community partnerships, Prevention
Community Partnerships Training . . . . . .8

& Recovery asked two—Dr. Jon T. Perez of “Multiple agencies have roles to play and
Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Region IX and Dr. Charles Smith of Region resources to share,” says Dr. Perez. “In my
Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
VIII—for their perspectives on strength­ experience, trying to tackle substance abuse
Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
ening tribal-federal partnerships to address alone is simply not effective because no single
substance use, abuse, and dependency. agency has all the resources necessary to
Office of Tribal Justice Support

Assists Tribal Justice Systems . . . . . . . . .1 0
effect useful change,” he says.
(continued on page 3)
Director’s Corner It is never too late to start! In fact, rather than The following are some helpful hints to
waiting for someone else to be the change consider when building partnerships for
agent and get the ball rolling, why not take change;
Rod Robinson a risk and be the one to begin proactively
• Perspective – are we able to identify
Northern Cheyenne creating partnerships that will have the
the root cause or real issue(s)?
Director, Office necessary momentum when opportunity
of Indian Alcohol comes around the corner, rather than wait­ • Passion – do we have that deep down
ing until we have to react to a situation? belief that serving others is worth the
and Substance Abuse,
effort?
SAMHSA In Indian Country, we are all painfully aware
of how substance use, abuse, and depen­ • Principled – are we willing to do only
dency contribute so heavily to health the right thing for the right reason(s)?
Greetings all my relatives! concerns, crime and violence issues, child • Persistent – are we willing to go
The theme for the spring issue of the abuse and neglect, domestic abuse, suicide the distance needed to see change
Prevention and Recovery newsletter is fatalities, etc . When we look at the over­ happen?
“How to Strengthen Tribal-Federal Part­ whelming results stemming from alcohol
• Patient – am I able to allow others to
nerships”, with the intent being to more and drug use, it is easy to slip into a feeling
change at their own pace?
effectively address substance use, abuse, of hopelessness, thinking nothing will ever
and dependency” . change . Well the truth of the matter is, “if • Professional – am I giving my best
nothing changes, then nothing will change” . effort, without forcing change?
There is so much happening today in such
a fast-paced hectic manner that it is diffi­ In this issue and last issue you will read about • Performance-based – as a tribe are
cult to make the time to think about who the many people and communities in Indian we willing to measure our efforts to
we can partner with to increase the effec­ Country that refuse to give up or give in to ensure that we are on the right track
tiveness of our efforts and to improve the hopelessness . These champions and healers to helping our communities in the
outcomes for those we serve . Often, we in our communities need our support . It is most effective way possible?
think it is just easier and quicker to “do it the time to start thinking about and look- In closing, a wise person once said, “Be the
myself”, but later realize, “I wish I would ing for others that want healthy change to Change that you Wish to see in the World” .
have taken the time to include partners, occur in our community? Are you that one
Peace and safe travels .
as had I, things would have worked out so person who will begin a process for change
much better .” that could help one person or an entire
community?
Steven D. Whitehorn, Public Health Advisor, Indian Health Service

The Office of Clinical Whitehorn is Ponca, Otoe Missouri, and an Whitehorn has worked in American Indian
and Preventive Services’ enrolled member of the Muscogee “Creek” and Alaskan Native (AI/AN) communities with
Division of Behavioral Nation. He earned a Masters of Social Work a primary focus on substance abuse, suicide,
Health, Indian Health from Western Carolina University and is a board and children’s trauma. Away from work, he
Service is pleased to certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) enjoys spending time with his family in activ­
announce their newest and Licensed Clinical Addiction Associate ities such as camping, hiking, cycling, and
Steven D. Whitehorn team member, Steven (LCASA). In addition to his licensures, he holds kayaking.
D. Whitehorn. He will serve as a Public Health certifications in Trauma Focused Cognitive
Advisor working on the Methamphetamine Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Parent Child
and Suicide Prevention Initiative. Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
ANNOUNCING AN UPDATED TRAINING CURRICULUM
Will They Turn You Into a Zombie?
What Clinicians Need to Know about Synthetic Drugs (2nd Edition)
The purpose of this introductory educational training presentation is to provide clinicians from a variety of work and educational backgrounds
(including, but not limited to physicians, dentists, nurses, other allied medical staff, therapists and social workers, counselors, specialists, and case
managers working in substance use disorders, mental health, and other health-related settings) with a detailed overview of synthetic drugs, most
notably synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic cathinones (known on the street as K2, Spice, and Bath Salts). The curriculum defines key terms,
describes the effects and neurobioligy impact of the main classes of synthetic drugs commonly available, presents available data on the extent of use
in the United States, provides information on identifying and assessing individuals who are using synthetic drugs, and concludes with some clinical
implications of synthetic drug use. The duration of the presentation is approximately 3-3 ½ hours.
What Does the Training Package Contain?
„ Training Slides (PPT) Trainer Guide (PDF) Synthetic Drugs Reference List (PDF)
To view and download the full tracking package, please visit:
http://www .uclaisap .org/slides/synthetic-drug-training-package .html
Prevention & Recovery 2 Spring 2014
Perspectives From SAMHSA Regional Administrators (continued from page 1)
“Collaboration among federal agencies has “We need quantitative measures as well as ously available. Now, reimbursable prevention
increased. SAMHSA has a regional presence qualitative evaluations from key members of services offer much better access for everyone,
and collaborates with HHS agencies and a partnership to assess the degree of connec­ and he stresses the importance of getting
other federal departments (e.g., Housing and tivity, value, and change,” he says. all tribal members covered. “There are now
Urban Development, Agriculture, Labor, and too many options and too many benefits for
Social Security Administration) on initiatives It is also critical to evaluate whether the everyone not to be covered,” he says.
that take holistic approaches to addressing partnership’s goal is addressing the needs of
substance use,” says Dr. Smith. “Such collab­ the community and corresponds to the invest­ Forming Partnerships
orations enhance innovation and creativity, ments made, he adds. Strengthening partner­ is a significant first step
allow agencies to coordinate resources to ships may entail changing the overall goal,
meet a single aim, and help local commu­ focus/initiatives, or the individuals involved to because it acknowledges
nities see a way to bridge federal and other better match the needs of the community. Dr. that one agency, group,
resources,” he says. Perez adds that partners should derive direct
benefits from their collaborative efforts. or individual cannot do
Partnerships between federal agencies and
it alone.
tribal communities can build on existing Affordable Care Act Important
agency collaborations. There is no single The goal of tribal-federal partnerships is to Seeing Changes in Communities
approach to developing tribal-federal partner­ improve the overall health of communities.
Although people have differing perceptions of
ships, according to Dr. Smith. “Having an That can seem like a huge task, and forming
change, Dr. Smith says he has observed several
ongoing relationship with the RA beyond the partnerships is a significant first step because
changes during more than two decades in the
annual consultation is of great value. These it acknowledges that one agency, group, or
behavioral health field. “There is a different set
relationships are built on trust and a good individual cannot do it alone. “Leaders often
of ears listening to tribal communities now,
understanding of what regional HHS agencies need help asking for help,” says Dr. Smith. He
with a desire to address substance use with
can do to addresses the tribe’s needs,” he says. stresses that RAs are available to assist tribal
a fresh approach,” he says. More generally,
leaders in identifying needs, developing strat­
people recognize that substance abuse,
A good example is an ongoing partnership egies to address substance use, and forging
addiction, and mental health problems are
among federal agencies and tribes in Region commitments.
public health concerns for all communities
VIII to address prescription drug abuse. The
and are more willing to talk about them. The
regional pharmacy consultant and behavioral “Tribal memberships create their own destiny,
voice of youth is also stronger than it has been
health liaison from the Health Resources and but RAs can help tribes gain access to all
in the past.
Services Administration and the SAMHSA RA HHS resources. Tribal action plans provide
(Dr. Smith) are working with the Great Plains a structure to help communities address
The key to making immediate and long-term
Area Indian Health Service to develop clinical substance use. They are a vehicle for identi­
changes is a true and lasting commitment to
protocols that address chronic pain as well as fying a community’s particular needs and
addressing an issue, says Dr. Smith. Part of
an overall strategy for reducing prescription resources for improving overall health—and
maintaining a community commitment that
drug abuse. Great Plains works with their reducing substance use is a big part of that,”
has lasting impact is strong leadership—
tribal communities to help incorporate these he says.
which involves multiple roles, consensus
protocols and approaches into individual
building, taking in the perspectives of all
The resources for communities to strengthen
tribal strategies to address the problem.
community members and representing them
their overall health—and importantly, for
to others, and creating an infrastructure for
Assessing and Strengthening substance use prevention and treatment—
the long-term commitment. Strong partner­
Partnerships have expanded considerably. “I believe
ships grow from this commitment. “A forti­
the Affordable Care Act is the single most
Strong tribal-federal partnerships can help
fying commitment positions communities
important and positive change in the
communities reduce substance use, abuse,
to coordinate and collaborate with others to
substance abuse prevention and treatment
and addiction, but how do those involved
address the issue,” he says.
field in a generation,” Dr. Perez says. “That
know when the relationships are working
coverage, along with promoting a greater
well? Dr. Perez notes that a high level of Essentially, tribal-federal partnerships are
ability to bill and be reimbursed for prevention
participation, engagement, and activity about good people with a common mission
and treatment services, could hold great
usually accompanies successful partnerships. coming together to do great work. These
promise for increasing resources for tribes
Although there is no standard way to measure critical collaborations benefit from the unique
and tribal communities,” he adds. Dr. Perez
partnership success, it is important for all key knowledge and experience that different
explains that the Affordable Care Act expands
members—including people whose lives participants bring—strengthening efforts to
insurance options for all tribal members, who
are influenced by collaborative efforts—to address substance use, abuse, and addiction
can access off-reservation programs directly
examine these relationships continuously and improving the overall health of tribal
using insurance resources that were not previ­
over time, Dr. Smith emphasizes. communities.
Prevention & Recovery 3 Spring 2014
Juanita Mendoza — A Voice for Native Children

As the primary post-secondary contact at BIE, gaps in the system and a lack of communi­
Mendoza works with tribal colleges and univer­ cation across agencies.
sities, helping them gain access to resources
at the Department of Interior. She also meets She also serves as the lead representative
with schools and tribal constituents regarding for a Department of the Interior (DOI)
education laws, regulations and departmental memorandum of understanding initiative,
policies, and graduate programs for tribal which serves to advance the opportunities for
scholarships and fellowships. tribal colleges to access and obtain valuable
DOI bureau resources. Mendoza also serves
Mendoza also focuses on policy issues. She as the BIE representative on the Task Force on
has worked with experts in the field to help AI/AN Children Exposed to Violence Federal
develop and process BIE polices that required Working Group, and the OIASA Prevention
review and vetting. She was actively involved & Recovery newsletter work group, a multi-
in drafting several polices for the agency, agency alcohol and substance abuse
including policies regarding student suicide prevention collaboration.
prevention, intervention, and post-inter­
vention; addressing and responding to sexual Prior to working at the BIE, Mendoza served
Juanita M. Mendoza violence, dating violence, and stalking on as an advocate for tribal clients. She has also
BIE post-secondary institution campuses; worked at several federal agencies in the
Juanita M. Mendoza, a program analyst in zero-tolerance for fire arms and other Washington, D.C., area, the Indian Health
the Policy, Evaluation and Post-Secondary weapons; and the prohibiting alcohol, drugs Service and the D.C. National Indian Gaming
Education at the Bureau of Indian Education and tobacco at BIE schools. Commission.
(BIE), is a committed voice for Native American
children. She has been working in Indian In addition to her BIE policy work, Mendoza Mendoza received her education at the
affairs and tribal issues for more than 20 years engages in numerous federal partnership University of Maryland where she earned her
and has comprehensive knowledge of tribal initiatives, which include serving as the bachelor’s in anthropology, and a master’s in
government structure and organization, tribal chair of the federally-mandated Tribal Law management with an emphasis in health care
consultation directives, Native American laws, and Order Act Native Youth and Educational administration at the University of Maryland,
and policies and regulations. Her knowledge Service interagency working group. There, University College. While attending the
is a proven asset with the BIE and with inter- she led the development of a comprehensive University of Maryland, Juanita served as the
agency work groups, where she represents listing of education resources across federal President and Vice President of the Native
the Department of the Interior. agencies that are available to tribes, noting American Student Union.
Drug-Free Communities Funds Help Chariho Tri-Town Task Force

Substance Use Prevention Efforts

The Office of National Drug Control Policy’s
Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support
Program funds community coalitions that
prevent youth substance use. The primary
purpose of the DFC Program is to establish
and strengthen collaboration among commu­
nities; and reduce substance use among
youth. Chariho Tri-Town Substance Use Task Force collaborates with the Narragansett Tribe on programs
and projects that address youth substance abuse with support from Drug Free Communities.
Community coalitions that receive DFC Program is that local drug problems require DFC support to develop and enhance a
funding bring together multiple sectors of the local solutions. number of programs and projects, especially
community to address youth substance use, in collaboration with the Narragansett Tribal
including youth, parents, business, media, Among DFC coalitions engaging tribal Community.
law enforcement, health care professionals, communities in prevention work is the
religious organizations, youth serving organi­ Chariho Tri-Town Task Force on Substance The Task Force works closely with the Narra­
zations, state/local government, schools, Abuse Prevention in Wyoming, Rhode Island. gansett Tribal Police Department, including
and others. The philosophy behind the DFC The Chariho Tri-Town Task Force has used engaging a representative to serve as a
(continued on page 5)
Prevention & Recovery 4 Spring 2014
Drug-Free Communities Funds Help Chariho Tri-Town Task Force Efforts for Substance Use Prevention (continued from page 4)
coalition sector member. The Task Force Tribal Police in preventing underage alcohol For more information on the Chariho Tri-Town
has established an effective link with the use at powwows. Task Force, visit www .charihotaskforce .com.
Narragansett Tribe, providing substance use Tribal communities interested in learning
prevention materials for the Tribe’s recent “I The Task Force is encouraged by the oppor­ more about the DFC Program should visit
Am Sacred” health fair; developing a brochure tunities to help educate tribal youth on ONDCP’s DFC webpage at http://www .white­
that distinguishes between unhealthy substance use and support the community as house .gov/ondcp/Drug-Free-Communi­
tobacco use and the use of tobacco in tribal they work to reduce substance use. ties-Support-Program.
ceremonies; and supporting the Narragansett
The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Employ Juvenile

Justice Treatment Continuum

With the support of a four-year Tribal Youth 2. Create and strengthen relationships 42 percent in 2010; these are youth who,
Program grant from the Office of Juvenile within families; after exiting the Juvenile Services system,
Justice and Delinquency Prevention, the but still under the age of 18, had new delin­
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indian (EBCI) Tribe 3. Attend and participate together in child quent charges. Since the first year of imple­
has employed the Juvenile Justice Treatment and family teams; mentation, the delinquent recidivism rate has
Continuum (JJTC). This system addresses averaged 13 percent (years 2011, 2012 and
4. Address out-of-school suspension
delinquency utilizing a multi-agency team 2013).
periods creatively so that youth are not
approach, comprehensive clinical services,
joint management and supervision structure, unsupervised and can continue to meet Based on their success with the Juvenile
and an online integrated database to monitor educational and treatment goals; Justice Treatment Continuum approach to
processes and track outcomes. Juvenile Services, the EBCI now intends to
5. Design and maintain treatment goals
base their child welfare program on this
that address risk and protective factors
The JJTC is a process framework for service model, integrating behavioral health staff with
to support the youth in avoiding future
delivery and a very specific structure for child protective services and foster care. The
involvement with the court system; and,
practice change and improvement for Tribe will use a results-based accountability
critically,
agencies involved in the care and supervision structure that will involve other programs
of juvenile justice involved youth. Services such as the schools, law enforcement, and
6. Respond to crisis situations in home,
include evidence-based programs, which hospitals in developing strategies and
school and community settings.
incorporate structure, oversight, and multiple associated performance measures specific to
service types spanning across three primary The JJTC is dependent on collaboration and child welfare involved families.
areas: juvenile justice supervision, restorative support of multiple agencies and resources.
community service, and behavioral health Written agreements and incorporation of The EBCI has attained a Title I-VE planning
treatment. the JJTC processes into formal processes grant and, with other grant dollars, will expand
the Integrated Shared Information System
and procedures of the individual agencies
At the heart of the JJTC design is the multi- (ISIS) to monitor the progress of children and
allow for this mutual support and create the
agency staffing team, a partnership of agency families through an integrated child welfare
long-term sustainability of the model.
staff who collaborate and share in the super­ model modified to the specific needs and
vision and treatment of youth. Comprised Since January 2010, the EBCI JJTC project challenges of children and youth involved in
of direct service personnel from partnering has had promising results, serving approxi­ child protective services.
agencies, the team is directly accountable to mately 200 youth. Of those youth, 70 percent
the court and to the judge-led supervisory have maintained a satisfactory completion Integrated Service Model for Child

team. The continuum drives the work of the rate, which is defined as youth and families Welfare and Juvenile Jus�ce

staffing team to: meeting the requirements of the court or the
diversion contract, including those estab­
1. Develop and support community service JJ BH CW
lished in the JJTC services contract.
projects that provide opportunities
to give back to the community, create Recidivism for JJTC youth has dropped
relationships, and build self-esteem; dramatically since the beginning of the JJTC A Results­Based Accountability Model
project. The baseline rate for recidivism was
JJ = Juvenile Jus�ce  BH = Behavioral Health  CW = Child Welfare
Prevention & Recovery 5 Spring 2014
Suicide Prevention: A Culture-Based Approach in Indian Country

Clayton Small, PhD
“Why are you still holding on to the past? It’s
been a long time ago!”
Most American Indian–Alaska Native (AI/AN)
people, upon hearing this from a non-Indian
say to themselves, “Where do I begin, and
how do I help you understand?!” This cultural
divide is very real and is caused by misun­
derstanding, lack of knowledge, denial, and
unwillingness to hear the truth.
People, for the most part, are capable of
forgetting and forgiving after a traumatic
experience. Unfortunately, many AI/AN
people continue to experience colonization,
racism, and stereotyping. Despite the efforts
of some healing movements in Indian country,
the devastation of losing their land, violation
of their culture, and broken promises by the
government continues to affect the daily lives
of Native people and persists in creating a
feeling of mistrust, betrayal, and doubt. Suicide Rates* Among Persons Ages 10 Years and Older, by Race/Ethnicity and Sex, United States, 2005–2009
Health Disparities Worsening extremely high rates of suicide among AI/AN
Because of these experiences, AI/AN
In May 2013, the Men’s Health Network, in males for the age groups ranging from adoles-
individuals struggle with healing challenges
cooperation with the Office of Minority Health cents to mid-life.
that run deep, resulting in unhealthy
and Indian Health Services, developed a
behaviors that are passed on to the next These contributing social factors in Indian
report, “A Vision for Wellness and Health Equity
generation. Ongoing traumatic incidents Country are a call to action by tribal leaders
for American Indian and Alaska Native Boys
for AI/AN people result in unhealthy coping, and federal agencies to take a more assertive
and Men”, to raise awareness of the growing
which leads to tremendous health dispar- approach in public health prevention, inter-
health disparities among AI/AN males in the
ities for many Natives. Among AI/AN men, for vention, and treatment of health disparities
United States.
example, disparities are rooted in historical among Native populations in the United
trauma, racism, impact of colonization, loss The report suggests that health disparities States.
of traditional roles, loss of connections to among AI/AN men compared with women
cultural ceremonies and spirituality, poverty, and all other U.S. racial and ethnic groups are More research and approaches are needed
and unemployment. extreme and that the situation is worsening. for AI/AN men that will validate the causes
of the health disparities and lead to appro-
Increased Risk for Suicide For example, the CDC reports that AI/AN males priate interventions. President Obama’s
Death rates among AI/AN populations are experience death rates 2 to 5 times greater White House initiative, “My Brother’s Keeper”
nearly 50 percent greater than those of than AI/AN females for suicide, HIV/AIDS, (http://www .whitehouse .gov/my-broth­
non-Hispanic whites (Centers for Disease homicide, unintentional injuries, diabetes, ers-keeper), has potential to meet these
Control [CDC], 2014). For AI/AN youth, suicide firearm injury, and alcohol-related deaths. For needs for AI/AN men.
fatalities and related risk factors––including cancer, heart disease, and liver disease, AI/AN
A beginning would be to fund a national AI/
substance abuse, violence and bullying, coping males experience death rates 10 percent to 50
AN men’s resource and training center that
with trauma, and depression––have reached percent higher than AI/AN females (CDC, 2014).
could provide awareness, technical assistance,
a crisis point. According to CDC, suicide rates
were nearly 50 percent higher for AI/AN people Barnes, Adams, and Powell-Griner (2010) and training for AI/AN males throughout
compared with non-Hispanic whites, and they documented that, overall, AI/AN males Indian Country, as well as assist in the devel­
were more frequent among AI/AN males and experience greater disparities in health status opment and implementation of programs
persons younger than age 25. CDC concluded and general well-being than any other group for AI/AN men at the reservation and urban
that patterns of mortality are strongly influ- by race and gender. In their survey, AI/AN community level.
enced by the high incidence of diabetes, males indicated often feeling “hopeless” and
In an effort to address some of the problems
smoking prevalence, problem drinking, and “worthless,” thus highlighting the tragic and
facing AI/AN people, Native PRIDE, a national
health-harming social determinants. disturbing state of all disparities, including the
(continued on page 7)
Prevention & Recovery 6 Spring 2014
Suicide Prevention: A Culture-Based Approach in Indian Country (continued from page 6)
AI/AN nonprofit organization based in identify at-risk behavior that needs immediate
New Mexico (www.nativeprideus.org), has follow-up, for example, suicide, violence, or
developed two curricula: Native HOPE abuse and neglect. Great care is taken to
(Helping Our People Endure) and the “Good create a safe environment for the youth to
Road of Life: Responsible Fatherhood” quickly feel comfortable in an atmosphere
programs. where a sense of belonging is maintained.
Native HOPE During the program, youth share openly
Native HOPE is a suicide prevention, and honestly about their life, family, and
peer-counseling curriculum (youth helping community in the clan groups and large group
youth) that addresses suicide prevention, activities. On the third day, the youth develop
violence prevention, stress and trauma, and a strategic action plan for follow-up activities.
depression. Clayton Small, PhD (Northern This includes organizing a youth council that
Cheyenne), created this curriculum in 2004 conducts ongoing prevention and leadership
when he realized that most suicide prevention activities; conducting fundraising and
programs provided education and awareness sponsoring talking circles (support groups); The Good Road of Life: Responsible Fatherhood
but did not incorporate culture- and strength- conducting presentations to the school curriculum helps address issues that threaten the
well-being of children and families.
based approaches or integrate healing into board, tribal council, and parent groups; and
the process. The interactive Native HOPE conducting peer-to-peer messages (role Pre- and post-tests of AI/AN male partici­
curriculum allows AI/AN people to address playing). This process is effective and validates pants indicated enlightened self-awareness
serious health and wellness challenges while that working with AI/AN youth requires a of the relationships with their own fathers and
having fun learning. comprehensive cultural approach that incor­ families and learning the process of “letting
porates wellness and healing. go” (healing), communication skills, and
The curriculum is delivered to approximately forgiveness. The ANA currently funds “Respon­
2,000 youth per year in school and community The Native HOPE curriculum is endorsed by sible Fatherhood” programs to AI/AN tribes
settings throughout Indian Country. It consists the Indian Health Services and SAMHSA as an and organizations; however, it is not enough
of a one-day training-of-trainers session for effective culture-based prevention program. to meet the tremendous need to intervene
local teachers, counselors, mental health with AI/AN men to help address their personal
Good Road of Life:
professionals, substance abuse counselors, wellness challenges, to eliminate domestic
social workers, spiritual and traditional healers. Responsible Fatherhood violence, the incarceration of AI/AN males and
They practice being a clan leader and assist Dr. The “Good Road of Life: Responsible to promote increased quality family time and
Small in conducting a three-day training with Fatherhood” is a culture-based curriculum family preservation.
youth. This team walks through the program, that uses sources of strength such as spiri­
practices skills in group process and facili­ tuality, humor, and healing to assist Native Men with depression and suicide issues,
tation, and is present during the three days. men and their family members to address the substance abuse, or domestic violence issues
This builds the capacity of the team to replicate impact of colonization, trauma, racism, and were referred for support and counseling.
the training with other youth. The process other challenges that threaten the well-being Participants made commitments to complete
moves fluidly from the large group to small of children and families. The program was follow-up homework, such as joining talking
clan groups. The adult-youth ratio is one adult funded by the Administration for Native circles (support groups), exploring spirituality
to six to eight youth in the clan groups. The Americans (ANA) to develop, field-test, and and sources of strength, researching family
youth know immediately that this is a cultural make available their culture- and strengths- history (behaviors), forgiving parents, and
gathering because of the use of prayer, humor, based curriculum to AI/AN men, women, and increasing quality family time.
songs, dances, artwork, and medicines such as families for four years (2008–2012).
cedar, sage, and sweet grass. Participants worked in a peer-counseling
The “Good Road of Life: Responsible (adults helping adults) approach with at least
The youth and adults are challenged to Fatherhood” program is based upon the one other adult from their community. Several
share their tribal-specific culture during the doctoral dissertation study of Clayton Small tribal colleges, substance abuse programs,
three-day retreat, and evening activities are (Northern Cheyenne) and was completed social services programs, and mental health
encouraged, such as talking circles (support in 1996 at Gonzaga University (Spokane, programs are integrating the Good Road of Life
groups), sweat lodge, and social dances. A Washington). It addresses challenges in into their work with clients. As a result of this
Spirit Room is created where youth can have wellness and recovery for AI/AN men. This project, Native families have more involved
one-to-one conversations with counselors ANA project was implemented by Native spouses, fathers, sons, and brothers who can
anytime during the three days. PRIDE, who delivered 10 trainings in five draw upon sources of cultural strength, as well
tribal communities, reaching 895 Native men, as benefit from other men who are a positive
The adult team conducts a debriefing session women, and family members. role model for their communities.
at the end of each day to review progress and
(continued on page 8)
Prevention & Recovery 7 Spring 2014
Suicide Prevention: A Culture-Based Approach in Indian Country (continued from page 7)
Next Steps References Small, C. (1996). The healing of American
It is essential for prevention trainings to incor­ Barnes, P., Adams, P., & Powell-Griner, E. (2010). Indian/Alaska Native men at mid-life.
porate interactive humor as a means to create Health characteristics of the American Indian (Unpublished doctoral dissertation, Gonzaga
a safe place for learning, address serious risk or Alaska Native adult population: United University, Spokane, Washington).
factors, and promote healing in the context States, 2004–2008. National Health Statistic
of utilizing culture and spirituality. Federal Reports, 20, 1–22.
About the Author
agencies are beginning to acknowledge this
learning process for Native populations and Bauer, U. E., & Plescia, M. (2014). Addressing Clayton Small, PhD, has
endorse culture-based approaches more so disparities in the health of AI/AN people: The been an elementary, middle,
than in the past. importance of improved public health data. and high school principal
American Journal of Public Health. on reservations and in
More funding is also needed for Native urban communities. He has
communities to utilize culture-based Published online ahead of print April 22, 2014: been a faculty member at the University of
approaches, as most do not have the e1–e3. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2013.301602 New Mexico, University of Montana, and
resources to pay for the services on a fee-for­ Gonzaga University and has served as a
Blauner, R. (1972). Racial oppression in America.
service basis. Reducing health disparities CEO for Indian Health Services and directed
New York: Harper and Row. Retrieved from:
among Native populations is not a quick fix, several nonprofit organizations.
http://www .freedomarchives .org/Documents/
and healing can help move individuals from
Finder/Black%20Liberation%20Disk/Black%20 His organization, Native PRIDE, provides
surviving to living a full and joyous life. This
Power!/SugahData/Books/Blauner .S .pdf prevention, wellness, healing, and
renaissance movement is catching fire in
leadership training throughout Indian
Indian Country, and it is exciting and impos­
Centers for Disease Control [CDC]. (22 April
Country. He has developed prevention
sible to resist. It is a demonstration of the resil­
2014). American Indian and Alaska Native
programs for the Bureau of Indian Affairs,
iency of Native people of North America. The
death rates nearly 50 percent greater than
Indian Health Services, SAMHSA, and the
healing movement continues as AI/AN people
those of non-Hispanic whites. Retrieved from:
Department of Justice. He has comprehensive
are thriving and moving beyond surviving.
http://www .cdc .gov/media/releases/2014/
knowledge and experience in community
p0422-natamerican-deathrate .html
In the words used to inspire others, mobilization, strategic visioning, Indian
education, organizational development,
Cry, heal, forgive, Men’s Health Network. (May 2013). A vision
youth leadership, prevention, wellness/
for wellness and health equity for American
healing, team trust building, cultural compe­
and let your tears Indian and Alaska Native boys and men.
tency, and creating positive change.
Retrieved from: www .menshealthnetwork .
be the food that org/library/AIANMaleHealthDisparites .pdf Dr. Small conducts training and facilitation
nationally and internationally. His programs
Parliament of Australia, Department of
waters your future offer leadership and hope for American
Parliamentary Services. (13 February, 2008).
Indian, Alaska Native, and First Nations
Apology to Australia’s Indigenous peoples.
happiness… people. Contact claytonsmall@aol .com.
Retrieved from: http://australia .gov .au/
about-australia/our-country/our-people/
apology-to-australias-indigenous-peoples
OJJDP’s Online University Offering Tribal Community
Partnerships Training
OJJDP’s Online University is offering training for professionals and staff who work in programs for tribal youth. “Introduction to Community Collab­
orative Partnerships” is online training on how to establish and improve collaborative partnerships in Native communities that support tribal youth
programs. A learning certificate is available upon completion of the course. OJJDP’s Online University will release two additional courses later this
year that will look at effective community partnerships to create alternatives to the detention of tribal youth.
Resources:
Register for the Online University to access this course and others:
https://www .nttac .org/index .cfm?event=trainingCenter .traininginfo&eventID=596&from=training&dtab=3
View the marketing video for this course: http://vimeo .com/88020290
Learn more about OJJDP-funded programs for tribal youth: http://www .ojjdp .gov/programs/ProgSummary .asp?pi=52
Prevention & Recovery 8 Spring 2014
Red Lake Nation Highlights Culture as Prevention
Announcements
„ http://captus .samhsa .gov/access-resources/
red-lake-nation-highlights-culture-prevention
CDC Grants
„ Center 4 Native American Youth YouTube Channel
„ CDC-RFA-DP14-1421PPHF14
https://www .youtube .com/
PPHF 2014 Diabetes Prevention and Heart Disease & Stroke
user/4NativeAmericanYouth?feature=watch
Prevention Program A Comprehensive Approach to Good
Health and Wellness in Indian Country financed solely by 2014
„ Webinar on Synthetic Drugs
Prevention and Public Health Funds
http://www .addictionpro .com/webinar/

emerging-drug-trends-2013-beyond-synthetics-and-bath-salts
Department of Health and Human Services

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Events
July 22, 2014 Dates:
1. Letter of Intent (LOI) Deadline: N/A
IHS Sexual Assault Examiner, Domestic Violence
2. Application Deadline: July 22, 2014 11:59 p.m.
Examiner, and Pediatric Sexual Assault Examiner
U.S. Eastern Daylight Time at www .grants .gov
trainings for 2014
„ The Notah Begay III Foundation’s (NB3F) Native Strong
Registered nurses, advanced practice nurses, physicians, and physician
Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures national initiative is accepting
assistants are invited to attend this training. Participants will learn the
proposals for its second round of Promising Program Grants.
“These grants allow NB3F to partner with Native communities to elements of conducting comprehensive adult/adolescent medical
strengthen existing youth focused physical activity and/or healthy forensic examinations in cases involving sexual assault.
nutrition programs and build capacity for program evaluation. For
information on eligibility criteria, the full Request for Proposal (RFP) Registration is free to health care providers from IHS, Tribal, and Urban
and the link to the online application. Deadline is July 14th. Indian health care facilities. Health care providers from referral facilities
that serve American Indian or Alaska Native victims of sexual assault
http://www .nb3foundation .org/promising-program-grant .html are also eligible to attend at no cost. Materials will be provided. Meals
are not provided.
Resources
Visit www .tribalforensichealthcare .org to register today!
The Attorney General’s National Task Force „ Medical-Legal Partnership: Improving Health through
Legal Advocacy Webinar
on Children Exposed to Violence - Final report
July 17, 2014 at 3:30PM (ET)
and recommendations

http://www .justice .gov/defendingchildhood/cev-executive-sum .pdf
Register for Webinar
http://ihs .adobeconnect .com/medical-legal/
SAMHSA News Passcode: Partnership
„ Spring 2014 edition of SAMHSA News that discusses the Circles of
Care grant program and also a mention of the AI/AN Culture Card: „ Sexual Assault Examiner Training – Clinical – All in Colorado
Springs, CO
http://beta .samhsa .gov/samhsaNewsletter/circles_of_care/
• September 11-12, 2014
„ Circles of Care program and the specific work of some • November 6-7, 2014
previous grantees, please refer to the SAMHSA News article • February 5-6, 2015
from November/December 2010
„ Domestic Violence Examiner Training – Classroom Based
http://www .samhsa .gov/samhsaNewsletter/Volume_18_

• September 10-12, 2014 Billings, MT
Number_6/CirclesOfCare .aspx

• November 17-19, 2014 Phoenix, AZ
Native Wellness Institute’s Year Long Approach to community healing
„ Pediatric Sexual Assault Examiner Training – Classroom Based
and wellness will bring about major change and reinforcement in your
• August 4-8, 2014 Anchorage, AK
community. • August 18-22, 2014 Billings, MT
http://www .nativewellness .com/year-long-wellness-project .html • December 8-12, 2014 Phoenix, AZ
„ Department of Justice’s National Indian Country Training Initiative
Database of Public Health Laws
The Department of Justice’s National Indian Country Training
„ The featured databases are state medical marijuana laws and
Initiative is pleased to announce that it is sponsoring the
Naloxone overdose prevention laws, developed by the Public Health
Investigation and Prosecution of Child Fatalities, Neglect, and
Law Research program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
Abuse Seminar. The seminar will be held July 14-18, 2014, at the
Lawatlas .org
National Advocacy Center in Columbia, South Carolina. Travel and
Study lodging accommodations will be provided by the Office of Legal
Education. Investigation and Prosecution of Child Fatalities, Neglect,
„ American Indian and Alaska Native death rates nearly 50 percent
and Abuse Seminar Columbia, South Carolina.
greater than those of non-Hispanic whites
http://www .cdc .gov/media/releases/2014/p0422-natamerican­
deathrate .html
Prevention & Recovery 9 Spring 2014
Office of Tribal Justice Support Assists Tribal Justice Systems

In 1994, the Office of Tribal Justice Support (TJS) Tribal Court Assessments
Assessment Process:
was statutorily created in the Bureau of Indian Tribal Court Assessments are intended to
Affairs to further the development, operation evaluate tribal court needs and provide tribal Step 1: Documentation Gathering
Prior to the initial visit, TJS will request
and enhancement of tribal justice systems courts with recommendations for improving
documents such as the tribal constitution,
and Courts of Indian Offenses. Located within their operational activities, if needed. Assess­
tribal codes, and tribal court procedures.
the Office of Justice Services, TJS assists tribal ments include a five-step process and follow
judicial systems in many ways. It provides the Trial Court Performance Standards (TCPS), Step 2: Initial Visit
TJS will conduct an initial visit to meet
funds to Indian Tribes and tribal organiza­ which have been modified to meet the
tribal officials, review the process, and
tions for the development, enhancement and specific needs of tribal courts.
begin collecting information.
continued operation of tribal justice systems,
including traditional tribal justice systems. The TCPS incorporates a framework for Step 3: 3-Day Onsite Assessment
During this 3-day visit, the TJS assessment
They also oversee the continuing operation of defining and understanding the effectiveness
team observes court proceedings, reviews
CFR(?) Courts; provides training and technical of tribal courts by focusing attention on
case files, and schedules time with key
assistance, and conducts tribal court surveys/ performance self-assessment, and self-im­
stakeholders in the tribal court system.
assessments. provement through a 3-5 year strategic plan, The assessment team will provide prelim­
a guide for Tribes to self-assess and prioritize inary findings on the main themes that
In the past two years, TJS has emphasized the needs. Some of these needs will be funded emerged during the assessment. Should
importance of providing sustainable funding through TJS’s one-time funding process. there be an immediate funding need based
to tribal courts. Thus, the two TJS programs on the preliminary findings, TJS will highly
focus on all the directives. These are: (1) Tribal Possible one-time funding opportunities consider providing one time funding at
this juncture on an as needed basis.
Court Assessments, which provide specific include: court management systems, alcohol
training and technical assistance through a monitoring systems, court equipment, Step 4: Present Findings
strategic action plan and supported through such as computers, printers, cameras, and and Recommendations
one-time funding opportunities; and (2) the recording systems; training opportunities and TJS will then present the report with
findings and recommendations to the tribal
Tribal Court Advocacy Training Sessions, consultant services for the development of
chairman, tribal council, or individuals the
which, to date, have trained over 400 tribal codes; court clerk manuals, bench books, rules
tribal chairman designates.
court personnel throughout Indian Country in for procedures, and training initiatives.
18 training sessions . Step 5: Follow-up and Next Steps
TJS anticipates over 20 assessments will be Thereafter, the tribe and TJS will work
Training sessions are specifically designed for completed before the end of the fiscal year. together based on the priorities of the tribe
tribal court practitioners, tribal judges, tribal For Tribes interested in this opportunity,
prosecutors, and tribal defenders, along with please contact Babette E. Herne, National
other court personnel. They incorporate a Tribal Court Review Coordinator, Office of
“learn by doing” model where students take Justice Services, Trial Justice Support at
an active role in learning trial skills through babette .herne@bia .gov. Brochures about the
performance and constructive feedback from process are available on request.
experienced tribal court personnel serving as
instructors.
Feel free to copy and distribute
Contributing Agencies
Newsletter Contact Information
If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to contribute to this newsletter, please contact:
CAPT Jean O . Plaschke, MSW, LCSW-C
Youth Programs Officer
Office of Indian Alcohol and Substance Abuse
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration/Center for Substance Abuse Prevention
1 Choke Cherry Road, # 4-1064, Rockville, MD 20857
Tel: [phone] | Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Prevention & Recovery 10 Spring 2014