Thursday, November 21, 2024
11/21/2024
ABSTRACT: Background: The Alaska Native communities in the Bering Strait Region are facing a critical public health crisis characterized by high rates of suicide, pervasive substance misuse, and the debilitating impact of intergenerational trauma. Traditional mental health and substance abuse interventions have often fallen short due to a lack of cultural sensitivity and community-centric approaches. Objective: Kawerak Inc. seeks to revolutionize mental health and substance abuse interventions among Bering Strait youth up to the age of 24. With the funding from this Native Connections, Tribal Health Grant, the Circle of Hope Project aims to prevent and reduce suicidal behavior and substance misuse, mitigate the impact of trauma, and promote mental health through the integration of culturally sensitive practices. It strives to build a robust network of systems, services, and partnerships tailored to the community’s unique cultural, resource, and readiness needs, with the ultimate goal of pioneering a sustainable model for community change. Methods: This initiative will employ a multi-faceted approach, deeply ingrained in Native Alaska cultural practices and values. Key strategies include the implementation of culturally relevant preventive interventions, community and family engagement activities, capacity building for local leaders, and the establishment of partnerships with both tribal and non-tribal organizations. Furthermore, the program will leverage traditional knowledge and practices in healing and wellness, complemented by evidence-based mental health interventions. Expected Outcomes: The Kawerak Wellness Program anticipates a measurable reduction in instances of suicidal behavior and substance misuse among the targeted youth population. It also aims to enhance community readiness to address these issues, strengthen the cultural connectedness and resilience of Alaska Native youth, and increase the availability of and access to culturally appropriate mental health resources, Ultimately, the program endeavors to establish a reproducible model of community-driven change that significantly improves the overall well-being of Alaskan Natives communities in the Bering Strait Region and beyond. Conclusion: The urgency and complexity of the mental health and substance abuse crisis in Alaskan Natives communities in the Bering Strait Region demand innovative, culturally integrated solutions. The Kawerak Wellness Program represents a forward-thinking response to this crisis, promising not only to address the immediate needs of Alaskan Natives youth but also to lay the groundwork for long-term community resilience and health. Through its comprehensive, culturally rooted approach, the program holds the potential to transform the landscape of mental health and substance abuse intervention in indigenous communities.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).
