Prevention and Recovery: A Multi-Agency Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Collaboration: A Quarterly Newsletter: 2014 Winter, V2(6)

2014·1.2 MB·English

Volume 2, No. 6
Winter 2014
“ When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life
so that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice.” — White Elk
A Quarterly Newsletter n A Multi-Agency Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Collaboration
The Wisdom of Investing
in Native Youth
INSIDE Native Youth Provide Strong Leadership
Director’s Corner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
For its 40th Anniversary issue in 2010, Smith- work with community planning for mental
Great Plains Area Youth Regional sonian asked experts to forecast what will health and wellness, Dr. Bartgis has witnessed
Treatment Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 happen in arts and culture, environment, first-hand youth engagement and leadership
Fresno Native Youth Support medicine and science, population, and in revitalizing Native cultural and traditional
Development of a System of Care. . . . . . .3 technology during the next 40 years. Chris ways. Of course, as young people of the 21st
Eyre, film director and producer, predicted century, an integral part of their lives and
OJJDP Partners with National Tribal
Youth Organization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 that Native youth will revive their commu- activities involve technology. Native youth are
nities through knowledge of ancient traditions reaching out to their peers and others with
Domestic Violence Prevention Initiative
and cultures learned from their elders (http:// digital storytelling and photo voice projects
Features Youth-Centered Approaches. . . .4
www.smithsonianmag.com/40th-anniver- by taking part in public service announce-
Marcella Ronyak, Ph.D.. . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
sary/a-youth-renaissance-for-native-amer- ments, and by engaging in social media to
SAMHSA’s New Tribal Training icans-1014139/). The future that Eyre renew traditional ways.
and Technical Assistance Center. . . . . . . .5
predicted is happening now—Native youth
Youth Movement
Tribal Action Plans in Motion. . . . . . . . . .7 are already leading change in their commu-
nities and are a critical part of community Youth—people up to age 25—typically
Impact of the Affordable Care Act on
American Indians and Alaska Natives . . . .7 healing. become engaged in community activities
at 14, but can become involved throughout
Announcements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Dr. Jami Bartgis, President and CEO of One Fire adolescence and young adulthood. Their
Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Associates in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, works leadership is changing communities in signif-
Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 closely with Native American youth. In her icant ways, Dr. Bartgis says. The energy and
(continued on page 8)
Director’s Corner ing youth in the decision-making process gives them a voice. We need to invite them
that mostly affects them, we more often than to the table of discussion and listen to
not end up making decisions for them. When their ideas for healing our nations. Young
Rod Robinson budget shortfalls come, the first programs people today not only have amazing ideas
Northern Cheyenne that get cut are youth services. Why does this to share, they also have a sacred mission
Director, Office of Indian happen time and again? and intense passion to apply to this heal-
Alcohol and Substance We could all easily point the finger in one ing process, if only given the opportunity.
Abuse, SAMHSA or more directions; however, rather than go In following with the Administration’s
through this futile and frustrating exercise, lead, more than any other time that I can
we choose to tether ourselves to a renewed remember, “Now Is the Time” to re-com-
Greetings to all my relatives. A new year
commitment to do whatever it takes to reach mit to our children that we will walk with
has begun and it will not be long before the
our young ones with a message of hope and them on their journey of safe passage to a
spring season will begin to show herself.
opportunity, a message that offers attraction healthy and safe lifestyle. We will invest our
This is an energizing time of the year and a
to a healthier lifestyle, rather than promo- time. We will listen to them. We will pray for
crucial time to focus on our young people.
tion to one that they must do or else. them and we will celebrate their successes
In the last two editions of the newsletter,
with them.
The lessons that I have learned from youth
we have been focusing on healthy and
are: walk with me, don’t just work with me; What you will read in this edition of the
safe schools and communities. Now, we
stop assessing me and start listening to me; Prevention and Recovery newsletter are
want to focus on “the Wisdom of Investing
teach me instead of treating me, and please the many ways that we are re-committing
in our Native Youth”.
stop trying to fix me; just guide me by your to investing in our youth. The return on this
My father would always say, “Wishing and
example. When you talk to me in this way, I investment will change our world.
getting are two different things”; mean-
really do hear you, I promise.
For more information, please visit us at
ing, we often fall into the trap of sincerely
Most of us can remember a time when we www.samhsa.gov/tloa or contact the
meaning it when we say, “our children
did not have a voice regarding what was Office of Indian Alcohol and Substance
are our most precious resource, we must
going to happen to us. Therefore, we must Abuse at [phone].
never forget this.” However, when it comes
forever support our youth in a manner that
to allocating financial resources or includ-
Great Plains Area Youth Regional Treatment Center
Provides Holistic Behavior Healthcare
Lavon Booth, Program Director
The Great Plains Area Youth Regional Treatment
Center (GPAYRTC), formerly the Aberdeen
Area Youth Regional Treatment Center, is an
18-bed, open-enrollment, co-ed treatment
center for American Indian adolescents, ages
13-17 (18-year-olds on a case by case basis),
who have a primary diagnosis of substance
abuse or chemical dependency. The GPAYRTC
is accredited through the State of South
Dakota and the Commission on Accreditation
of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Great Plains Area Youth Regional Treatment Center treat adolescents for substance abuse or chemical
dependency.
Located on the Standing Rock Reservation in residential environment integrates tradi- Relations that are specific to American Indian
South Dakota, the GPAYRTC treatment staff tional healing, spiritual values, and cultural adolescents. The goal of the GPAYRTC is to
consists of licensed addictions counselors, awareness. Comprehensive assessments reconnect residents with their culture and
two clinical psychologists, a registered nurse allow staff to tailor individual treatment plans teach healthy choices.
and a family mental health specialist. A to address each resident’s uniqueness.
Special-Education Certified teacher oversees For more information, please call
the Chief Gall Alternative Education Program Residents participate in various cultural [phone] or visit the GPAYRTC website:
where the residents work on credit recovery activities such as daily smudging, morning http://www.ihs.gov/
while in the program. prayer, community meetings, and Inipi/ aberdeen/?module=ab_ao_hf_ayrtc
sweats; attend local cultural events that
The mission of the GPAYRTC is to provide include powwows, hide-tanning, and tours
quality holistic behavioral health care for of historical monuments/sites, and partic-
American Indian/Alaska Native adoles- ipate in groups such as Cultural Values per
cents and their families. The substance-free gender, White Bison (Wellbriety) and Healthy
Prevention & Recovery 2 Winter 2014
Fresno Native Youth Support Development of a System of Care
conducted interviews with elders to
contribute to a community needs assessment.
The youth survey was administered to
over 100 local Native youth and generated
important information about what local youth
experience and need to support their health
and well-being.
While Youth Council representatives helped
facilitate the photovoice project, other youth
volunteers participated through photography
to answer important questions about their
community such as what makes us happy,
what symbolizes our culture, and what do
we want to see in our community? Photog-
raphy reflecting the local environment, family,
concerns, strengths, and culture created a
forum for youth to talk about their thoughts
Gathering of Native Americans (GONA) 2012
and ideas around health and well-being.
The Fresno American Indian Health Project support and contribute to the younger gener- Further, youth were trained to conduct inter-
in Fresno, California has been supporting ations growing up in the community. Youth views with local elders using culturally-based
local youth and families in the planning and have supported the development of a youth methods for engagement through generosity.
development of a children’s mental health wellness tool by adapting an adult version
service system through the SAMHSA Circles of of the Medicine Wheel Wellness Assessment Youth volunteers gained valuable knowledge
Care initiative since 2011. Through an annual and piloting it with local youth to ensure that from local elders by asking questions about
Gathering of Native Americans (GONA), youth the tool is useful, strength-based, and youth the history of the local Native community
are learning about how culture impacts elders’ friendly. This tool is now being disseminated and ways in which culture supports wellness.
wellness as they learn how common indig- to other urban Indian communities to support This information supported a comprehensive
enous teachings apply to their own lives, to the wellness and growth assessments of Native needs assessment for Fresno Native youth
community’s health, and to the future of both. youth, demonstrating the impact of their and families. In the last year of the Fresno
leadership in making contributions beyond Circles of Care initiative, youth and families
Four basic principles—Belonging, Interdepen- their own community. are supporting the development of a System
dence, Mastery, and Generosity—are used to of Care service model that will meet their
teach Native youth cultural values that are now As a part of the Circles of Care initiative, the needs to provide comprehensive, quality, and
being observed in emerging youth leaders. Fresno Native Youth Council also supported culturally respectful services.
For example, one graduating youth partic- the development of a youth survey, imple-
ipant is being trained as a GONA facilitator to mented a youth photovoice project and
OJJDP Partners With National Tribal Youth Organization
To Advance Youth Leadership in Indian Country
On November 22, 2013, OJJDP announced a “The National Intertribal Youth Leadership UNITY is a national organization promoting
new partnership with United National Indian Development Initiative brings needed personal development, citizenship, and
Tribal Youth, Inc. (UNITY). UNITY will receive resources to Indian country to support and leadership among AI/AN youth ages 14–24.
$850,000 from OJJDP to plan and implement enhance tribal efforts to prevent delinquency Its network currently includes 132 affiliated
the National Intertribal Youth Leadership and improve the juvenile justice system for youth councils in 35 states.
Development Initiative. The initiative will American Indian and Alaska Native youth,”
offer training and learning opportunities for said OJJDP Administrator Robert L. Listenbee. This article has been reproduced from the
November/December 2013 issue of OJJDP
American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth “The initiative will build on the successes
News @ a Glance with the permission of the
to increase positive outcomes in their school, of past OJJDP National Intertribal Youth
Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
community, and family environments. Leadership Summits and further expand the Prevention.
leadership development support that OJJDP
offers to tribal youth.”
Prevention & Recovery 3 Winter 2014
Domestic Violence The first step of this program was to educate to create their work. Information on coping
school administration staff on the bullying strategies was provided, including how art
Prevention policy and to provide strategies for success- can be a great tool for working through stress.
fully communicating this information to The showcases provide an avenue to begin
Initiative Features students. The second step was to educate difficult conversations in the home about
students about bullying and its effects, as well violence and making DV a more approachable
Youth-Centered as provide them with coping strategies and topic within the community.
resources.
Approaches Working in conjunction with the athletic
High school students are provided continual director at the high school, the 1Team, 1Cause,
educational sessions on bullying and intimate 1Movement Campaign (1TCM) was created.
Lisa M. Chee, B.A., Pinon Health Center
Indian Health Service partner violence, and included in several Student athletes acted as spokespersons for
different types of services where youth are the
(continued on page 6)
The Pinon Health Promotion (HP) Domestic driving force in the execution of campaigns
Violence Prevention Initiative (DVPI) has and events. For example, students entered a
focused a lot of its work on youth centered poster contest in which the winning posters
approaches through partnerships with the were professionally printed, matted, and
Pinon HP Social Marketing Initiative and local displayed.
schools. The program began introducing
a domestic violence (DV) social marketing The poster contest was the first “Art Gallery
approach through bullying programs at the Show” of its kind. All of the artists incorpo-
elementary and middle schools. rated their perspectives on dating violence
(DV) from a survivor’s standpoint, or
described the cycles of DV in their narratives 2012 October Art Gallery Show
Marcella Ronyak, Ph.D., LICSW, CDP Selected as Lead Public
Health Advisor for Alcohol and Substance Abuse Division
Tribes of the Colville Reservation as the Tribal conducted research to enrich the under-
Psychologist for two separate terms, as well as standing of underutilization of services
an independent contractor providing clinical within the boundaries of the Colville Tribe.
services to children and families within the Her dissertation topic was the Colville Tribal
community. Members’ Views on Mental Health & Wellness:
A Qualitative Investigation.
Dr. Ronyak received her doctorate degree
in Counseling Psychology & Educational Due to the high rates of substance abuse and
Leadership from Washington State University suicides among American Indians, she has
in 2004 and completed her pre-doctoral researched and developed a clinical program
internship with Colorado State University that was implemented at Paschal Sherman
Counseling Center in Fort Collins, Colorado. Indian School in 2005 to address co-occurring
She completed her Master of Social Work issues in an effort to improve the quality of
degree at Walla Walla College (University) life for many young Native American students
in 1998 as a part of the advanced standing and their families.
program and was a recipient of an Indian
The Indian Health Service, Office of Clinical and Health Service Scholarship in 1997-1998. In 2002, she was appointed as the American
Preventive Services recently selected Marcella Dr. Ronyak received her Bachelor’s degree Indian Community Representative for the
“Marcy” Ronyak, Ph.D., LICSW, CDP as Lead in social work from Eastern Washington Institutional Review Board for Washington
Public Health Advisor for Alcohol and Substance University in 1997. State University and was the Graduate
Student Representative for the Research and
Abuse Division of Behavioral Health. Dr. Ronyak
Dr. Ronyak has been instrumental as a Arts Committee.
is a member of the Confederated Tribes of the
proven leader for organizational change,
Colville Reservation in Nespelem, Washington.
enhancement of educational models
She previously worked for the Confederated
within Paschal Sherman Indian School, and
Prevention & Recovery 4 Winter 2014
SAMHSA’s New Tribal Training and Technical Assistance Center
Who We Are AI/AN communities have the cultural Collaborative Partnerships
The Tribal Training and Technical Assistance knowledge, skills, and resilience to address and The Tribal TTA Center partners with other
(TTA) Center is funded by the Substance prevent mental and substance use disorders, TTA providers and federal agencies servicing
Abuse and Mental Health Services Adminis- prevent suicide, and promote behavioral AI/AN tribes and communities to maximize
tration (SAMHSA). We use a culturally relevant, health. Their cultural beliefs and practices resources and efforts in Indian Country that
evidence-based, holistic approach to support provide a foundation for promoting lasting promote mental health and support the
native communities in their self-determi- wellness, solving problems, and taking action. prevention of suicide and substance abuse.
nation efforts through infrastructure devel- Some of these partners are:
opment and capacity building, as well as
Strategic Cultural „ Collaborative for the Application
program planning and implementation.
of Prevention Technologies (CAPT)
What We Do Framework „ Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Center for Excellence
The Tribal TTA Center provides TTA on
mental and substance use disorders, suicide The SAMHSA Tribal TTA Center „ Office of Indian Alcohol and Substance
prevention, and the promotion of mental is based on these principles: Abuse (OIASA)
health. We offer broad, focused, and intensive
„ SAMHSA Regional Administrators
Vision:
TTA to federally-recognized tribes, other
American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) Behavioral health and wellness for tribal „ Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC)
communities begins with acknowledging
communities, SAMHSA grantees, and organi-
the effects of historical trauma, honoring
Need for Services
zations serving Indian Country.
cultural values, and developing of a vision
of success. Suicide rates of AI/AN populations are higher
Who We Serve than any other group in the United States.
Circles of Relationships:
„ Rural and urban tribal nations The National Survey on Drug Use and Health
The quality and authenticity of relation-
and organizations reports that AI/AN populations drink less
ships provides the critical pathway for
overall than the national average, but the rate
„ SAMHSA tribal grantees this work to be effective and sustainable.
These circles of relationships must emerge of binge drinking is higher. Alcohol abuse, and
„ A select group of communities for intensive TTA from the community and be based on the particularly binge drinking, has been shown
successful integration of memberships and to contribute to higher rates of suicide.
„ TTA contractors who serve tribal grantees
responsibilities.
and tribal members
Suicide Deaths: Rates per 100,000 (by age group)
Sense of Hope:
„ Governmental and non-governmental 50
Tribal communities believe spirituality is at
entities 40
the core of their survival. A sense of hope
30
includes interconnectedness (circles of 20
How to Request TTA
relationships), sacredness of inner spirit 10
Tribal communities and SAMHSA grantees (cultural resilience), balance (awareness), 0
15-24 25-34 35-64 65-84 85+
can contact the Tribal TTA Center to submit and responsibility to be lifelong learners
(growth). AI/AN Males U.S. Males
TTA inquiries via:
AI/AN Females U.S. Females
PrettyPaint, I. (2008) Miracle survivors: A grounded
Tribal TTA Center Webpage:
theory on educational persistence for tribal college
http://beta.samhsa.gov/tribal-ttac
students. Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Percent of Suicide Decedents Who Had a
Blood Alcohol Content > 0.08
SAMHSA Tribal Training and Technical
Assistance Center How We Deliver Training and 40%
Phone: [phone]%
Technical Assistance (TTA)
8201 Corporate Drive, Suite 800 20%
„ National and regional trainings
Landover, MD 20785 10%
Email: [email protected] „ Gathering of Native Americans/Gathering 0%
of Alaska Natives White AI/AN
„ Learning communities Data Source: Research Society on Alcoholism (2013)
Following your request, you will be contacted
by Tribal TTA Center staff. „ Assistance with Tribal Action Plans
„ Intensive community engagement
„ Onsite and virtual technical assistance
„ Production and dissemination of resources
(continued on page 6)
Prevention & Recovery 5 Winter 2014
SAMHSA Tribal Training and Technical Assistance Center (continued from page 5)
The Path Ahead
• Provide TTA to federally-recognized tribes, other AI/AN communities, SAMHSA grantees, and organizations serving Indian Country.
• Work collaboratively with governmental and non-governmental entities to leverage resources and address a variety of issues affecting
tribal communities, families, and youth.
• Work with SAMHSA tribal grantees and other TTA contracts that serve tribal grantees and tribal members.
• Assist tribal communities in mobilizing, planning, and implementing community-based and culturally tailored evidence-based interventions.
• Increase protective factors linked to the healthy and safe development of AI/AN children, families, and communities
• Promoting student leadership and indicating that the youth are asking their community to create change.
Domestic Violence Prevention Initiative Features Youth-Centered Approaches (continued from page 4)
volunteer their time at game half-time events, „ Media Madness Tours, which take place
signing commitment posters for visiting during the summer months. This campaign
is a spin-off of the bullying and social
teams, and survey distribution. The students
marketing programs at the schools. At
also participated in making a Public Service
these events, children are provided with
Announcement (PSA) that is played at games.
information (based on age) on either
intimate partner violence or bullying.
The community was involved as well by taking
They, in turn, will either work on posters or
part in a photo booth where they posed with participate in a newly added PSA activity
their “6th Man”. This 6th Man is someone who where the children are engaged in the
has made a positive change in that individ- planning and production.
ual’s relationship. These photos are posted
on the service unit’s social media page along
The work that has been provided to youth in
with a narrative explaining how their “6th
the Pinon area has been created to not only
Man” made that impact.
get their attention, but also to get them to
take action. The community and the youth
The athletic director has played a major role in
look forward to these events, campaigns,
making this campaign possible—addressing
and sessions because they are encouraged to
the community at games during half-time,
take information that has been presented to
promoting student leadership as an indication
them and actively create an end product that
that the youth are asking their community to
Harrick Francis DV Art Gallery Show Participant engages the entire community.
create change.
Title of Work “Love to Leave” 2012
community change. This began by educating Other programs offered by the Pinon HP DVPI
all winter athletes about DV and having include:
„ The evidence-based Safe Dates program,
them commit to being representatives of
which is provided to high school students
positive change on behalf of their schools.
as an after school program. The high school
Winter athletics was chosen due to its
is in the process of getting school board
popularity among the community. Basketball
approval for the program to become a
games are a very popular gathering place for part of the health class curriculum for the Harrison Benally, Jr. Courtney Ben Winner
Winner of of Anti-Bullying Poster
many community members, and basketball 2014-2015 school year.
Anti-Bullying Campaign 2012-2013, SY
players are often seen as role models to Poster Campaign
„ The Center of My Basket, which provides a
younger children. 2013-2014, SY
wide range of maternal, and child health
information and two sessions on DV. These
The 1TCM consists of community education,
sessions were created to address and
media marketing (purple is the indicator of prevent possible child abuse and neglect,
the cause), and voluntarism. This campaign which is often associated with DV. These
encourages students to commit to being sessions are held at the school so that teen
violence free and become leaders of change. parents (with parental permission) may
have direct access to them.
Students and community members volunteer
PHS Cheerleaders Mark Gathmann,
to educate their communities on DV with assis-
at Purple Out Event PUSD Athletic Director
tance from DV health technicians. They also 2012-2013 Addressing crowd
1TCM Campaign during 2012-2013
1TCM Campaign
Prevention & Recovery 6 Winter 2014
Tribal Action Plans in Motion
Marcella Ronyak, Ph.D., LICSW, CDP, Alcohol and Substance Abuse Lead
Division of Behavioral Health, Indian Health Service
The Northwest Portland Area Indian Health began with the STD/HIV Coalition and the plan, all agencies utilized existing resources
Board (NPAIHB) has made great strides in process took approximately 12-18 months, and areas of expertise for successful imple-
the development and implementation of the according to Dr. Rushing. She encouraged mentation of the plan.
Tribal Action Plan (TAP) process. The Tribal Law them to “think realistically in taking the first
Board members of the NPAIHB reviewed the
and Order Act of 2010 (TLOA) has set forth in steps in order to avoid being overwhelming.”
proposed plans, which took approximately 6
motion the collaboration of federal agencies
months or longer, according to Dr. Rushing.
to address the unique alcohol and substance The Development Process—
Feedback was obtained from various stake-
abuse issues faced by American Indians TAPs Taking Shape
holders to finalize the plan to ensure that the
and Alaska Natives. Coordinated efforts for In the initial meeting, the development process plans represented all 43 tribes and the unique
prevention and treatment at the local level focused on collecting background data to issues within the American Indian and Alaska
can be addressed through the development identify priority populations and health issues. Native communities.
and implementation of a comprehensive TAP. A community readiness assessment was
Determination and Passion
adapted from the Community Readiness Model,
The NPAIHB has developed and imple- developed by Plested, Thurman, Edwards, Catalysts for Success
mented the Northwest Tribal Suicide Action and Oetting at Colorado State University: According to Dr. Rushing, the determination
Plan (2009-2013), STD/HIV Tribal Action Plan http://www.nccr.colostate.edu/. The adapted and passion from area health advocates and
(2009-2011), Northwest Tribal Substance community assessment was discussed at their commitment to address sensitive topics
Abuse Action Plan (2011-2015), and the length with regional partners to enhance the were catalysts for the successful development
and implementation of the TAPs. Given the
Adolescent Tribal Action Plan (2014-2018). exploration of a broad array of related topics,
large representation of tribes within the
The plans incorporated representation of 43 including prevention activities, treatment
Pacific Northwest, it was important to take a
tribes within the Pacific Northwest (Idaho, services, and perceptions about community
regional approach for guidance within local
Oregon, and Washington) and took coordi- knowledge, action, climate, and concern. The
communities in order to address evolving
information gathered was used to collabora-
nation, commitment and determination by all public health concerns.
tively select and design culturally appropriate
multi-disciplinary agencies involved.
intervention strategies that were responsive
“We wanted to ensure that regular activities
Dr. Stephanie Craig Rushing, Project Director, to the current level of community capacity and were meeting the readiness level of tribes and
NW Tribal EpiCenter, has been an integral readiness within the Northwest tribes. communities as well as tailoring the needs and
part of the development and implementation activities for the tribes,” Dr. Rushing stated. The
The next few meetings focused on utilization
process. She described the process as being “a readiness level of tribes varied significantly,
of data to guide planning sessions and the
development plan for a region.” scope of work, including identification of which led to the development of a multi-level
action plan to meet the tribal readiness level.
goals, objectives, partner’s responsibility
NPAIHB utilized existing collaborative According to Dr. Rushing, the overall goal of
for assigned activities, and clarification of
meetings that took place within the area as the TAPs are to “create healthy, strong, young
assigned roles and responsibilities of each
many committees were already addressing people to stop the negative health issues.”
agency. Even though there was no specific
a variety of public health issues. The first TAP funding for the implementation of the suicide
(continued on page 9)
Impact of the because they have a lower employment rate to the authors, “American Indians and Alaska
and tend to be employed in low-wage jobs Natives may continue to face significant gaps
Affordable Care Act that typically do not offer health insurance. in coverage and face growing inequities in
According to the article, less than four in 10 coverage and care in states that do not expand
on American Indians (36%) American Indians and Alaska Natives Medicaid.”
have private coverage, compared to 62% of
In addition to expanding the Medicaid
and Alaska Natives the overall non-elderly population.
program and private health insurance, the ACA
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) offers oppor- permanently reauthorizes the Indian Health
According to an October 2013 Issue Brief tunities to increase coverage and access to Care Improvement Act, extending and autho-
published by the Kaiser Family Foundation, care for AI/AN. The ACA seeks to reduce the rizing new programs and services within the
Health Coverage and Care for American number of uninsured through an expansion of IHS. The complete Issue Brief can be found at
Indians and Alaska Natives, “nearly one in Medicaid and the creation of state run or the http://kff.org/report-section/health-cover-
three American Indians and Alaska Natives federal Health Insurance Marketplaces. The age-and-care-for-american-indians-and-
(AI/AN) is uninsured.” Overall, American article states that “Nine in ten (94%) uninsured alaska-natives-issue-brief/.
Indians and Alaska Natives have lower rates AI/AN have incomes in the range to qualify
of access to employer-sponsored coverage for coverage expansions.” However, according
Prevention & Recovery 7 Winter 2014
Youth Movement (continued from page 1)
engagement of youth is leading to the accep- Through the Methamphetamine & Suicide part of maintaining balance. Following the
tance of changes in community practices. Prevention Initiative funded by the Indian old teaching and world view that “we are all
Communities understand that youth have the Health Service, young people have convened related,” young people want to contribute
ability to carry on tribal customs and tradi- the Stronghold Youth Conference in each to their communities because “in giving to
tions that are most healthy and to let go of of the past 4 years. Held at the Friendship others, we are giving to ourselves.”
beliefs and teachings that lead to imbalance House of American Indians in San Francisco,
within current society, she explains. youth develop the conference’s agenda. They Cultural Traditions Important
focus on local health and social issues for Wanting to make changes in the community
One important trend brought about by Native youth and support the development is one thing, but it can be difficult for anyone
Native youth is the development of enhanced of videos and public service announcements. to stick with projects and make a difference.
connections between rural and urban areas, (http://www.snagmagazine.com/2010/04/ What strengths do young people—who are
which supports improved balance for both stronghold-youth-conference-2010.html; perhaps dealing with all kinds of personal
and strengthens cultural identity. This is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWr3D- changes and transitions—draw on to sustain
driven by young people’s curiosity about the Nxzw6I) their interest and energy in community
experiences of others. When they move to
Young people want to
cities for college or work, young people find
it helpful to have established connections.
contribute to their communities
Similarly, urban youth need opportunities
to learn about their cultures, which is easier
because in giving to others, we
when they have connections on tribal lands.
Regardless of where they live, Native youth
are giving to ourselves.
need a strong, positive cultural identity to
— Dr. Bartgis
help them withstand the existing racism
and discrimination that disenfranchises and Through the Fresno American Indian Health mental health planning activities? Dr. Bartgis
minimizes tribal cultures. Project funded by the SAMHSA Circles of notes that in general, youth who draw upon
Care Initiative, youth developed and led a their own tribal traditions, customs, and
The arts and technology are central to young photovoice effort to help collect data from knowledge fare much better than those
people’s identity and social lives. Youths’ other young people. Youth received cameras who do not. “By grounding their advocacy
interests are part of the cultural adaptations to answer questions about their commu- in cultural traditions, youth leaders are able
that always take place with a new gener- nities with photography. The photographs to bridge gaps within and between commu-
ation. The key is for communities to adopt served as a springboard for Native youth to nities. It gives their work a strong sense of
positive changes that are built on both have important conversations about their purpose, meaning, and direction,” she says.
old ways and new ways (e.g., digital story needs, challenges, and strengths. Through
telling). Native community activities now this project, the youth also conducted inter- For youth to learn Native traditions, they
include and reflect the interests of youth— views with elders to gain their wisdom need connections to elders, who help
for example, social networking and skate- and insight about community needs and bridge the cultural knowledge gaps that
boarding, hip hop and spoken word, contem- cultural strengths. Information from the many tribal and American Indian commu-
porary art, and business—to strengthen project contributed to a Community Needs nities are facing. Many elders with the tribal
cultural identity. Many tribal communities are Assessment for the Fresno Native community. stories and knowledge have already passed,
adopting inter-tribal pow-wows to support so connecting youth with elders is critical
healthy social gatherings for youth and What Moves Youth? for the survival of customs and traditional
families. Some are using humor to address Young leaders take action to address the issues healing ways. Creativity and technology—for
racism and historical traumas and to raise and challenges faced by Native communities example, language programs such as Rosetta
awareness of Indian culture and history (e.g., because they have direct personal experience Stone Navajo and the Apple’s support to
http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork. with them. “Whether they have experienced the Cherokee National Language Emersion
com/2012/09/02/cutting-edge-native-com- mental difficulties or family disruption, program—can play a valuable role in bridging
edy-1491s-130943). personally or through relations, it is not these gaps (http://www.cherokeephoenix.
uncommon for Native youth to be concerned org/Article/Index/5568).
Tangible Results
about their friends and loved ones who are
The positive impact that Native youth are struggling, and to feel real anxiety about how One promising program that supports youth
having on their cultures goes beyond broad to help them get out of difficult life situa- leadership and mentoring in communities
trends. Their role in cultural revitalization tions,” says Dr. Bartgis. Youths’ motivations to across the country is the Gathering of Native
is evident in tangible results and activities. make positive changes in their communities Americans (GONA). The GONA is a 4-day
These projects and products are as diverse as also stems from a deeper value taught by youth prevention curriculum that imparts four
the youth themselves, for example: their cultures—generosity as an important important teachings that cross many indig-
(continued on page 9)
Prevention & Recovery 8 Winter 2014
Cultural Traditions Important (continued from page 8)
enous cultures and communities—Belonging, keep their involvement going. I recommend the space to develop and create—and
Mastery, Interdependence, and Generosity— that communities support the development offer gentle guidance to promote youth
and engages youth to consider how each of strong youth councils and provide them leadership, rather than participation. For
applies to their own lives, communities, and with some resources and the autonomy to example, adults can support youth in devel-
the future of both. Through this curriculum, make decisions to ensure that a wide range of oping their own youth council agendas, ask
Native youth are contributing to their commu- diverse youth are working together to support youth to lead meetings and discussions,
nities through voluntarism and service and are advocacy as a team,” says Dr. Bartgis. and allow youth to develop and implement
emerging as local leaders and mentors. projects with adult support. Youth projects
How Programs Can Involve Youth should result in something tangible and
For example, the San Francisco Bay Area Dr. Bartgis suggests that programs can involve ways for young people to apply their
has implemented the GONA for more than enhance youth outreach by investing time, skills today for some immediate change or
a decade. Youth who are “aging out” of the funding, and resources in young people. result, while linking to long-term goals.
program often return to be peer-mentors, and Administrators who hire youth staff (or
many attain jobs in the local Indian centers provide stipends) are building a local “When youth are actively engaged in
and seek higher education to support a career workforce and investing in youth. Youth- community planning, implementation, and
in prevention and health. There are a few other friendly organizational policies and proce- evaluation the local outcomes are deeper and
national programs that support formalized dures, for example, polices for using social more sustainable, because youth will carry
local mentoring programs—including the media, can boost engagement in local on for the generations to come. I would like
United National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY) youth councils and mechanisms for youth to personally thank and encourage all the
and American Indian/Alaska Native Boys and involvment. “I recommend that adults commu- youth leaders across the country that have
Girls Club. Youth MOVE also has the potential nicate the bigger picture of projects, develop contributed to my growth and experience in
to support Native youth involved in mental ‘no acronym zones,’ take time to define terms supporting community healing and change,”
health advocacy and mentorship. and concepts, and clarify youth ideas contin- says Dr. Bartgis.
ually until their messages and guidance are
Youth need the traditional knowledge of Jami Bartquis, Ph.D. is President and CEO
understood,” says Dr. Bartgis.
the elders, but they also need a strong and of One Fire Associates, LLC, drbartquis@onefire-
sizable network of peers. “Engaging only one Often, adults take the lead when youth are associates.org.
or two youth in local programming may not present. But Dr. Bartgis suggests that adults
provide the energy and support they need to step back a little—to give young people
Tribal Action Plans in Motion (continued from page 7)
To review the four Tribal Action Plans We R Native is a multimedia health resource for The curricula is available at: http://www.
developed by the dedicated work of the Native teens and young adults. The program ncsddc.org/what-we-do/health-disparities/
NPAIHB, please visit their website at: http:// includes an interactive website (http://www. native-stand-curriculum
www.npaihb.org/epicenter/project/tribal_ weRnative.org), a text messaging service
„ Native STAND Fact Sheet: http://www.
action_plans. (Text NATIVE to 24587), a Facebook page, a
npaihb.org/images/epicenter_docs/
YouTube channel, a Twitter feed, and print PRT/2012/Native%20STAND%20-%20
For additional information, contact Dr.
marketing materials. one%20pager.docx
Stephanie Craig Rushing at [phone].
Additional Resources: Native STAND Curriculum: „ Native STAND was evaluated in 2009-2010
in four BIE Boarding Schools. The final
Tribal Health: Reaching out InVolves Everyone Native STAND is a comprehensive curriculum report is available here: http://www.
for Native high school students that promotes
(THRIVE) (http://www.npaihb.org/epicenter/ npaihb.org/images/epicenter_docs/
project/thrive/) provides training and TA for healthy decision-making. The curricula is PRT/2012/Native%20STAND%20
suicide prevention and has developed four highly interactive and skills-based, and Aggregate%20-%20Final%20Report.doc
focuses on STD/HIV and teen pregnancy
national AI/AN social marketing campaigns
„ An article describing the process was
prevention, while also covering drug and
addressing: suicide prevention/bullying
published in 2011: Health Education
alcohol use, suicide, and dating violence.
(Community is the Healer that Breaks the Silence); Monograph: http://www.npaihb.org/
images/epicenter_docs/PRT/2012/
„ substance abuse (I Strengthen My Nation); Sessions focus on positive personal devel-
Native%20STAND%20Eval%20School-
opment, including team building, diversity,
„ sexual assault (My Mind, Body, and Spirit Based%20RRI.pdf
self-esteem, goals and values, healthy decision
are Sacred);
making, negotiation and refusal skills, and „ The curriculum’s videos are available on
„ family violence (What is Done to One is effective communication. It was designed to YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/
Felt by All). train peer-educators in the 10th grade, but Nativestand7#p/u
has been successfully used by Tribes in other
„ A teacher’s guide for the videos is available
All are available here:
settings and adapted for other grade levels. here: http://www.npaihb.org/images/
http://www.npaihb.org/epicenter/project/ epicenter_docs/PRT/2012/Native%20
mspi_prevention_media_resources STAND%20-%20Teacher%20Guide.docx
Prevention & Recovery 9 Winter 2014
Announcements
Funding Opportunities Internships/Scholarship
„ AmeriCorps Indian Tribes Grants FY 2014 „ National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) offers internships
http://www.nationalservice.gov/build-your-capacity/grants/ offers internships and fellowships to provide an opportunity for
funding-opportunities/2014/americorps-indian-tribes­ young leaders from throughout Indian Country to serve on the
grants-fy-2014 front lines of legislative action and policy development. All interns
Application Deadline: April 30, 2014 and fellows are selected through an application and interview
process. For more information, visit: http://www.ncai.org/
„ ACF – The FY 2014 ACF Administration for Native Americans
native-youth/fellowships-internships.
Funding Opportunity Announcements are now published! Click
here to see a full list of the FOAs, including information on how to „ The Center for Native American Youth at the Aspen Institute,
apply. The application period will close on April 15, 2014. offers an in-depth list of resources for youth. Established by former
North Dakota Senator Byron Dorgan, the organizations resources
„ Department of Commerce – Alaska Native Organization
offers resources for youth, tribes, and others. For more information,
Co-Management Funding Program
including most recently the announcement of the 2014 Champions
Funding Opportunity Number: NOAA-NMFS-AK-2014-2003984
for Change, visit http://cnay.org/.
Posted Date: January 21, 2014
Application Deadline: April 7, 2014 „ Washington Internships for Native Students (WINS), a program
administered by American University, offers students of sovereign
„ DOJ Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation
American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) nations the opportunity
Application Deadline: March 24, 2014
to build leadership skills while living, studying, and interning in
http://www.justice.gov/tribal/ctas2014/2014ctas-solicitation.pdf
Washington, DC.
„ DOJ/Bureau of Justice Assistance FY 14 Adult Drug Court
Developed in response to the White House Initiative on American
Discretionary Grant Program
Indians and Alaska Natives, this enriching program offers qualified
Funding Opportunity Number: BJA-2014-3779
students full scholarships funded by American University and
Posted Date: January 15, 2014
sponsoring organizations. Students will gain professional work
Application Deadline: March 18, 2014
experience through interning at a federal agency or private firm,
„ HRSA – Three funding opportunities under HRSA’s Healthy Start take courses focusing on Native American public policy concerns,
Program have been reopened through Monday, March 31, 2014. and participate in social and cultural extra-curricular activities.
For details and links to each Funding Opportunity Announcement
The program runs for eight weeks during the summer. For

(FOA), visit the Healthy Start technical assistance webpage at www.
hrsa.gov/grants/apply/assistance/healthystart/. information, visit http://www.american.edu/spexs/wins/.

„ SAMHSA – Planning Grants for Expansion of the
Comprehensive Community Mental Health Services for
Children and their Families (Short Title: System of Care
Expansion Planning Grant)
Funding Opportunity Number: SM-14-001
Posted Date: December 19, 2013
Application Deadline: March 19, 2014
„ SAMHSA – Implementation Cooperative Agreements
for Expansion of the Comprehensive Community Mental
Health Services for Children and their Families Program
(Short Title: System of Care Expansion Implementation
Cooperative Agreement)
Funding Opportunity Number: SM-14-002
Posted Date: December 19, 2013
Application Deadline: March 21, 2014
„ SAMHSA – Grants to Expand Substance Abuse Treatment
Capacity in Adult Tribal Healing to Wellness Courts and
Juvenile Drug Courts” Visit the following link for more information:
http://beta.samhsa.gov/grants/grant-announcements/ti-14-003.
Prevention & Recovery 10 Winter 2014