NATIVE HEALTH Newsletter
Upcoming Events
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Volume 17, Issue 3 - March 2023 |
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This month marks three years that the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our lives. Three years! I vividly remember the day we implemented our Incident Command Team. How time has flown (and dragged by)! COVID impacted not only our health care, but nearly every aspect of our daily lives. We are almost entirely back to pre-pandemic activities. There are still some pieces of the Public Health Emergency (PHE) that are still in place but slowly and surely, we're getting back to a new normal.
NATIVE HEALTH has brought back almost all of our great community activities and programs and is participating in all community events. You'll see us at Parent Meetings, Pow Wows, and other community gatherings. If you keep an eye on our Facebook page, you'll see what's happening in the community each week.
During the pandemic, many people opted to postpone their health care, some out of necessity, and some out of fear. The time has now come to visit your provider and get caught up on screening tests. March is Colorectal Cancer Month. Not always a pleasant topic, but an important one. If you are over the age of 50 and haven't had a colonoscopy or FIT test, this is the time to think about it and do it! The FIT test can be done in the privacy of your home and mailed in. Easy and simple! If you'd like more information, please contact your NATIVE HEALTH Medical Provider.
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Unfortunately, one thing is going back to pre-pandemic, is health care coverage. When the pandemic began, the federal government instituted a "Public Health Emergency" or PHE. Now that the PHE is unwinding. This means, that many people will no longer qualify for AHCCCS or Medicaid. If AHCCCS has contacted you via text, email, or letter, it is critical you respond quickly. Beginning April 1, AHCCCS will begin dropping individuals. NATIVE HEALTH's Patient Enrollment Specialists can assist you. You can also check the AHCCCS website and update your information. Don't delay- this may result in your losing health care coverage.
Again, this means that if you, or someone you know, is on AHCCCS and have received a letter, text, email, or phone call, you must respond, or YOU MAY BE DROPPED FROM AHCCCS.
NATIVE HEALTH has Patient Enrollment Specialists that can assist you in updating your information. It's fast, easy and they'll make sure your information is updated so you don't get dropped. For an appointment, either in person or via phone, please call (602) 279-5262. Don't delay and possibly lose your coverage!
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NATIVE HEALTH would like to thank Desert Diamond Casino West Valley for their very generous support for the Urban Native American Senior Food Box program. The elders will greatly benefit from this generous donation. This will allow us to increase the amount of food and supplies we provide each month.
We appreciate Desert Diamond Casino West Valley's continued commitment and support. Thank you, Desert Diamond Casino West Valley!
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We have two signature events scheduled for March, our Bike Rodeo, and Annual Prayer Walk. Our Bike Rodeo (with Razor Scooter and multisport helmet giveaway) on Saturday, March 18, at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa, and the following weekend, our Annual Prayer Walk, Walk for the Land and the People with a breakfast, on Saturday, March 25.
This year's Bike Rodeo will provide over 100 FREE Razor Scooters and multi-sport helmets to the first 100 youth, age 17 and under, that sign up, attend, and participate in the Bike Rodeo Obstacle Course. There will be additional fun activities.
Thank you to Molina Healthcare for providing funding for scooters and multisport helmets.
For more information or to register, click here.
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March also brings our Annual Prayer Walk, the Walk for the Land and the People. This Annual Walk brings out hundreds of walkers and runners to gather for a Blessing, enjoy the weather, meet new people, and practice mindfulness during the walk. This year, we will again have one walk, from North Mountain to NATIVE HEALTH Central due to continued South Mountain light rail construction. Participants will park at NATIVE HEALTH Central, take the bus to North Mountain, participate in a Blessing and walk south to NATIVE HEALTH Central. A light breakfast will be provided when walkers return to the site.
For more information, or to register for this free event, please click here.
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Don't forget to check our social media on a daily basis. We post community events, gatherings, resources, and scholarships on a frequent basis.
NATIVE HEALTH is actively supporting you and your family by staying connected. Want to stay connected on a daily basis with NATIVE HEALTH and the community happenings? Did you know you can check out our Facebook page even if you don't have Facebook? Click here to view our Facebook page. There are many opportunities that come up outside of the newsletter. As soon as we receive important information, we post it on our Facebook page.
We are here to support you and your family and hope you will take advantage of the programs offered by NATIVE HEALTH.
We are grateful for you. We wish you and your family a happy spring!
Until next month,
Walter Murillo
Chief Executive Officer
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4041 North Central Avenue, Building C
Phoenix, Arizona 85012
P (602) 279-5262
F (602) 279-5390
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Medical Hours:
Monday-Friday,
8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Virtual Health Care -
8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
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Same Day Medical Appointments:
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
NATIVE HEALTH, NHW Community Health Center and NATIVE HEALTH Mesa accepts all AHCCCS (Medicaid) Health Plans and American Indian Health Program. CMDP and many private insurance plans are accepted.
Sliding fee scale available at NATIVE HEALTH and NHW Community Health Center. Please email Amanda for additional information or you may call (602) 279-5262.
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Emergency Dental Appointments:
Monday-Friday
8:00-10:00 a.m. and 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Walk-in emergency dental appointments are available on a walk-in basis. First come, first served.
Routine dental care is done by appointment. For more information or to make an dental appointment, please call Gina at (602) 279-5262 x 14010 or her.
All AHCCCS Plans, American Indian Health Program, CMDP, and private insurance plans are accepted. Sliding fee scale available.
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Behavioral Health:
Monday-Friday
Accepts AHCCCS for behavioral health services.
Behavioral Health Intakes are available by appointment and on a limited walk-in basis. In-person or virtual assessments are available Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. following completion of intake documentation. Bring required documents and copies of court orders. Please arrive at least 30 minutes early for your intake appointment to complete necessary paperwork. Forms may now be completed online through NATIVE HEALTH's website, if preferred.
NATIVE HEALTH is an AHCCCS Complete Care provider and accepts all AHCCCS plans. For more information contact Carmen at (602) 279-5262 x 12003 or email her.
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Services:
Group counseling services now held in an individual counseling format.
- Substance Abuse Treatment Program
- Domestic Violence Offender Group for Men
- Case Management services now provided telephonically
- Domestic Violence Victim Advocate Support
- Substance Abuse and Suicide Prevention support
- Other services, for ages 6+
- Individual, family and group counseling
- Psychiatry
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Veterans Toolkit Services
Available on Thursdays, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For more information call (602) 279-5262 x 43008.
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Arizona Department of Economic Security - Division of Benefits and Medical Eligibility -
Services are available at NATIVE HEALTH Central and are available Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
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Arizona Department of Economic Security - ARIZONA@WORK.
ARIZONA@WORK employment assistance is available Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Please call (602) 279-5262, x 43007.
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777 West Southern Avenue, Building C, Suite 301
Mesa, Arizona 85210
P (602) 279-5262
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Medical Services:
Building E
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Same day appointments available.
Virtual Health Care: 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
NATIVE HEALTH Mesa accepts all AHCCCS (Medicaid) Health Plans and American Indian Health Program. For additional information call (602) 279-5262.
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Behavioral Health Services:
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Behavioral Health intakes are by appointment and a walk-in basis. Bring required documents and copies of court orders. Please arrive at least 30 minutes early for your intake appointment to complete necessary paperwork. Forms may now be completed online through NATIVE HEALTH's website, if preferred. All AHCCCS plans accepted. NATIVE HEALTH is an AHCCCS Complete Care provider. For information or to make an appointment contact LaShauntai at (602) 279-5262 x 22004 or email her. Services include individual and family counseling, as well as parenting.
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Food Distribution for Children, Individuals and Families:
8:00 a.m.-noon, Tuesday-Friday, Building B, south side. Must self certify need for individuals and families.
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Health Start, Home Visiting and LAUNCH Programs:
Information and enrollment. Call for information.
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WIC Hours:
NATIVE HEALTH WIC will continue to provide services by phone at 1-(800) 470-5930. If you've received a text from NATIVE HEALTH WIC, you can text back with questions or concerns.
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Arizona@Work
9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Tuesdays. Assistance with soft skills, resumes, job interviews, and much more. They can help individuals with background issues.
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2423 W. Dunlap, Suite 140
Phoenix, Arizona 85021
P (602) 279-5262
F (602) 279-5361
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Medical Hours:
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Virtual Health Care: 8:00 a.m.-7:00. p.m.
Dental Hours:
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Dental emergency walk-ins, first come, first served
For an appointment please contact Virgina at (602) 279-5262 x 14040 or email her.
Starting November 2021, the Northwest Extension Phase II Light Rail Extension Construction has changed. Patients and clients of NHW Community Health Center should plan and expect intermittent traffic restrictions. There ARE alternate ways to get to NHW Community Health Center. To access the map, please click here.
NHW Community Health Center accepts all AHCCCS (Medicaid) Health Plans and American Indian Health Program. CMDP and many private insurance plans are accepted. Sliding fee scale available. For additional information call (602) 279-5262.
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Behavioral Health Services:
Monday-Friday
Now accepting AHCCCS for behavioral health services.
Behavioral Health intakes are by appointment and a walk-in basis Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 pm. Bring required documents and copies of court orders. Please arrive at least 30 minutes early for your intake appointment to complete necessary paperwork. Forms may now be completed online through NATIVE HEALTH's website, if preferred. For information or to make an appointment contact Corey at (602) 279-5262 x 32004 or email him.
Services:
Individual and family counseling
Tele-Psychiatry on site
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NATIVE HEALTH - Photos from February
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NATIVE HEALTH's Human Resources staff attended the Pascua Yaqui Job Fair in Guadalupe. |
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NATIVE HEALTH attended the Arizona Indian Festival in Scottsdale. |
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NATIVE HEALTH would like to thank Sunshine and Ben Coronado for their generous donation of food and other items. Thank you for your continued support. |
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NATIVE HEALTH would like to thank the Hospital Art Foundation for a very generous donation of artwork that is beautifying the walls at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa. Thank you Hospital Art Foundation. |
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NATIVE HEALTH would again like to thank Debbie Hamilton for her donation of this month's beautiful, handmade quilt. Each month Debbie spends countless hours designing and sewing these quilts. They are then given to a child in NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visiting Program. February's quilt is entitled, "Zig Zag Quilt". This quilt is gorgeous! Thank you Debbie for continuing to make a difference! |
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NATIVE HEALTH hosted a Beaded Duster Earring class taught by Esther Nystrom. Check out this beautiful beading! |
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NATIVE HEALTH hosted Phoenix Indian Center's Civic Engagement Coordinator, June, who provided Arizona, Maricopa County, and Navajo Nation Voter Registration. |
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NATIVE HEALTH staff assisted with planting 1,100 plants at Crazy Chile Farm. Crazy Chile Farm donated chile plants for NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Garden. |
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NATIVE HEALTH hosted two Read it and Eat's Tea with the Tooth Fairy Events, one at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa and one at NATIVE HEALTH Central. |
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Tea with the Tooth Fairy was a huge hit! |
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Children and families loved meeting the Tooth Fairy and working on crafts, learning about oral health, cooking, and much more! Thank you to Arizona Complete Health for funding Read it and Eat. |
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Wellbearto checked out the American Indian Festival in Scottsdale. |
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Wellbearto loved meeting the Ft. Mojave Tribal Royalty. |
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Wellbearto loves art. He walked around the Scottsdale Civic Center area and found this interesting sculpture. |
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Wellbearto was invited to attend the Nike N7 Golf Sport Experience. Wow, what an event! He had a great time! |
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Wellbearto got to meet one of his golf idols, Notah Begay, at the event. |
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Wellbearto made a trip south…way south...to Buenos Aires, Argentina! Here he checks out the 220 foot obelisk celebrating the 400th anniversary of the founding of the city, built in 1936! |
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Next Wellbearto visits “The Pink House” or Casa Rosada, the office of the President of Argentina. |
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Then Wellbearto checks out the La Boca neighborhood, famous for it’s colorful buildings and local soccer club in Argentina. |
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Follow Wellbearto on Facebook. You can also find him on NATIVE HEALTH's website!
You never know where you will find him!
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NATIVE HEALTH's Program Offerings |
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NATIVE HEALTH - AHCCCS Application Assistance |
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The Patient Enrollment Specialist (PES) at NATIVE HEALTH would like to let you know that the Public Health Emergency (PHE) is now scheduled to end. The eligibility standards have been reevaluated and implemented once again. It is best to submit a renewal application, since most of the benefits have been ongoing since the pandemic has begun.
We highly suggest renewing your Arizona Medicaid benefits soon, or you may be discontinued and may no longer meet eligibility standards. The Patient Engagement Specialists (PES) at each NATIVE HEALTH location offer services for Arizona Medicaid (AHCCCS) and nutrition assistance (SNAP) benefits. Aside from enrollment services our PES' can also give a variety of information about other programs within the NATIVE HEALTH organization. You can call into our facility to make an appointment or be seen as a walk-in. The PES team is also available via tele-enrollment, over the phone, if that is convenient for you.
Your Arizona Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Programs (CHIP) health coverage includes well-child checkups, dental services, and immunizations at no cost to you. Take the time to enroll within our Arizona Medicaid and CHIP programs, its free and you will be on your way in no time!
DES will continue to mail out information regarding AHCCCS and CHIP program eligibility and renewing benefits in coming weeks so keep an eye out for any correspondence from DES.
There is absolutely no cost to you, if you want to apply for benefits with one of our PES'. PES assistance is free to the public and you do not have to be a registered patient for assistance. Please contact Andrell Williams at (602) 279-5262, x 21005 or email her for additional information regarding applying for AHCCCS or any other related questions.
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National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day - March 20 |
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National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is March 20, 2023!
At NATIVE HEALTH, we encourage you to join the conversation to #StopHIVTogether.
NATIVE HEALTH is committed in doing our part to stop the spread of HIV in our communities. We can accomplish this by creating a community that promotes awareness, understanding and acceptance.
One way to Stop HIV Together is to #knowyourstatus. Knowing your status is key in protecting yourself and your partner(s). The CDC recommends everyone between the ages of 13-64 be tested for HIV at least once. You will want to get tested more often if you are at a higher risk for contracting HIV.
Join us on March 20 for our National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day at NATIVE HEALTH Central and NATIVE HEALTH Mesa. We are providing FREE HIV testing and Mpox vaccines. Everyone who completes a HIV test will receive a FREE lunch from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Everyone who attends will receive free giveaways, gain HIV prevention knowledge and things you can do to stop HIV Stigma in our community!
Be sure to check out NATIVE HEALTH’s social media pages leading up to March 20 for more information and education about HIV.
If you, your family, or friends would like to schedule a confidential HIV test, try our NEW Concierge HIV Testing! Contact Nurse Amber to schedule at (602) 279-5262 x 14011. We will come to your home or office to administer a rapid HIV test- it only takes one minute for results!
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NATIVE HEALTH's Indigenous Wellness Program |
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NATIVE HEALTH is introducing a wellness series to help you and your family become your healthiest. The classes will focus on how to improve your daily routine and lifestyle habits. They will include hands-on activities to help you learn how to plan and prepare nutritious meals to prevent or manage diabetes.
Prevent T2 is a yearlong wellness program that focuses on the goal of preventing type 2 diabetes for adults with prediabetes. There are 16 weekly sessions, followed by 6 monthly sessions. Through this CDC-approved diabetes prevention curriculum, participants will learn how to make moderate changes in diet and physical activity to promote a 5-7% weight loss. The program is led by a lifestyle coach that discusses problem-solving to overcome common weight loss, physical activity, and healthy eating challenges in a setting that encourages social support.
“What Can I Eat?” is a nutrition education program for adults living with type 2 diabetes. The goal of this program is to teach people how to eat in a way to keep their blood sugar healthy. The program is led by a registered dietitian and will cover what foods are healthy for people with diabetes, how to eat a healthy amount of these foods, and how to tackle barriers that can make it hard to eat healthfully. Participants will also participate in a hands-on learning activity and practice ten minutes of physical activity in each class. This program has four weekly sessions, followed by a reunion two months after the last class to provide continued support and celebrate ongoing successes in making healthy lifestyle choices.
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Balancing Your Life and Diabetes is a diabetes self-management education and support program for adults diagnosed with diabetes. This program consists of six weekly sessions led by a diabetes educator. The focus of this program is awareness of what makes your blood sugar rise and fall, and how to manage these day-to-day factors. The goal is to help participants establish a healthy daily routine and overall lifestyle that supports healthy blood sugar levels in order to prevent complications. Each session will cover diabetes self-care behaviors including healthy eating, staying active, taking medications, monitoring blood glucose, healthy coping, and reducing risks. This class is designed for people newly diagnosed with diabetes or for those who need a review of diabetes self-care. This program provides support and accountability to empower you to thrive with diabetes.
Class will start in March 2023 and will be led by NATIVE HEALTH’s Registered Dietitian, Sumi Tohan, MS, RD, CDCES, CSOWM. We encourage you to come in for an individual assessment beforehand to establish your own personal goals before class. If you are interested, please contact Sumi. You can also call (602) 279-5262.
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NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Garden News |
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In February, we had special guest presenters Linda Black Elk and Luke Black Elk, who led a class on Medicine Soup. Linda and Luke are food sovereignty activists and teachers of traditional plant use, gardening, food preservation, and foraging. They shared with us about healing foods and medicines that can be incorporated into everyday meals.
Last month we also distributed growbag garden kits to over 50 families. Each kit included seeds saved from NATIVE HEALTH’s Traditional Garden, including Navajo Copper popcorn, Tohono O’odham pink beans, Akimel O’odham brown Tepary beans, Diné melon, Firewheel (native wildflower), and more. Families were also able to harvest veggies in the Traditional Garden when they picked up their kit. Everyone harvested over 83 pounds of produce total over the two days!
There will be a Second Saturday Traditional Garden Workday on Saturday, March 11, from 8:00-10:00 a.m. All are welcome to assist with garden preparation for summer planting. For more information contact Gabby.
Thank you to the volunteers from Bank of America, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and the community who joined our monthly Second Saturday Garden Volunteer Workday and garden kit pick up days in February. We appreciate you!
What to plant in March:
Seeds: Basil, Beans, Cucumber, Cucumber, Devil's Claw, Gourds, Melon, Sunflowers, Summer and Winter Squash, Tobacco, Watermelon.
Plant starts: Chiles/Pepper, Eggplant, Tomato.
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Beautiful turnips harvested from NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Garden. |
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Check out the At-Home Garden Warriors Grow-Bag project. This gardener is growing different herbs and vegetables in addition to flowers. |
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Let’s talk about healthy relationships. We know that an unhealthy relationship is a struggle of power and control that creates a cycle of abuse, followed by a honeymoon phase. What does a healthy relationship look like when we must confront disappointment, conflict, hurt feelings?
A healthy relationship values each other’s thoughts and feelings, is supportive of each other’s goals and includes respect for each other’s space. Beyond honesty, faithfulness, and transparency, we need to also respect boundaries and learn to communicate. Feeling free to express feelings and being met with validation instead of hostility promotes bonding and resolutions. It leads to mutual respect, honesty, and compromise. Fighting fair, means you can disagree about a topic without throwing other topics in, belittling your partner, or name calling. Restating what your partner says lets them know they are being heard so you can problem solve together. We can learn the tools to create healthy relationships and we can also model healthy relationships to our children. It is important for our children to understand relationships with friends, family, teachers and boyfriends, or girlfriends, etc. Abusive behavior can be present in any relationship and the more you know, the quicker you can recognize the signs. If you would like more information, you can look on the www.youth.gov website or click here.
If you have more questions about abuse or feel you are being abused, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233, or text “Start” to 88788.
Remember, abuse is not traditional. Madara Winters, R.N., B.S.N., is NATIVE HEALTH's Domestic Violence Prevention Case Manager. She can be reached at (602) 279-5262 x 12012 or email her.
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NATIVE HEALTH's Youth Resiliency Program |
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Greetings from the Youth Resiliency Program at NATIVE HEALTH! In February we had a Valentine’s Day Card Making/Healthy Relationships BINGO. The Youth Resiliency Program also hosted the Gourd Painting Class. The Youth Resiliency Program is available for Native American Youth ages 11-24, we assist with connection to behavioral health services, cultural events, and activities. The Youth Council/Book Club meets at least once a month. If you or someone you know needs resources or connection to care, do not hesitate to reach out to the Youth Resiliency program. |
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March events are Ribbon Skirt Making Workshop and a Flute Making Workshop! The Flute Making Workshop with Randy Kemp will be held on Saturday, March 25, from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa.
The Flute Making Workshop with Randy Kemp will be held on Saturday, March 25, from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa.
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The Ribbon Skirt Making Class is Friday, March 17, and Saturday, March 18, at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa.
For more information on the Flute Making Workshop or Ribbon Skirt class or to register, please contact Britney via email.
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March is Spiritual Wellness Month, take the time to reflect and know that the words you use hold more power than you may realize. If the mind thinks it, the body will feel it! Be kind to yourself and others.
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JOIN THE YOUNG INDIGENOUS READERS! JOIN THE YOUNG INDIGENOUS READERS! We have great discussions connecting the books to Indigenous topics and life skills. We focus on enhancing cultural knowledge and mental health awareness for the youth. Native youth are welcome to join. Book club meetings occur virtually bi-weekly on Thursday evenings. All the books and supplies are provided!
For more information about any of these programs or to register for the Young Indigenous Readers please contact Britney.
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By educating our friends and family about suicide and mental illness we can spread the word that suicide CAN BE PREVENTED.
If you would like additional behavioral health resources, including connections to medical or behavioral health appointments, food bags, employment resources, health insurance, or community resources please reach out to Britney.
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Britney, Youth Resiliency Specialist had a great time at the UNITY Midyear Conference hosting a workshop presentation on Cultural Connectedness and Mental Health. |
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The Youth Resiliency Program shared a Blue Corn Mush Cooking Demo at Mountain View High School and shared a American Indian Life skills Presentation. |
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Students took a photo sharing their Traditional Tea we made at Native Lunch Time at Carson Jr. High School in Mesa. |
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Youth Participant Sunshine shows her finished Valentine's Day cards at the Healthy Relationships BINGO Event! |
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Check out these beautiful Valentine’s Day cards the youth made for Native American elders in the community. They were distributed in the Urban Native American Senior Food Boxes in February. |
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Participants focusing and getting creative at the Gourd Painting Class. |
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Youth Participant, Mateo, showing his finished Gourd Artwork, he did such a great job! |
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NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visiting Programs |
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Ya’at’eeh Woozhch’iid (Hello March In Navajo)
WOW! Can you believe it is already March! The weather is perfect here in the Valley and it is a great time to play outside. Play is something that comes natural to kids and everyday they are full of energy. Play is an important part of early childhood development. In our Parent As Teachers curriculum they share tips on encouraging free play which is listed below.
Upcoming Events:
March 2- National Read Across American Day (grab your favorite book and read with your child. We encourage families to read or sing songs daily with their child for 15-20 minutes.) Read Across America | NEA
March 10- Virtual Group Connection via Zoom for families from pregnancy to five years of age, 3:00-5:00 p.m. For more information or to RSVP, contact LaRee.
March 31-National Crayon Day (you can download free color pages and print at home at crayola.com.
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Home Visiting staff recently attended Southwest Human Development's Thrive to Five event which provided resources and other activities to families with young children.
Home Visiting Program services families within Maricopa County from expecting mothers to the age of eight years old. Virtual and telephonic visits are available. For more information about NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visiting programs or to enroll, please contact Camille at (602) 279-5262 or email her.
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Native Talk Arizona airs Wednesday afternoons, 4:06 p.m. on KRDP 90.7 FM (and kicks off three hours of Indigenous Talk Radio on Wednesday afternoons), KRDP's internet radio, and iTunes Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts! HEALTH's radio show, Native Talk Arizona, is available as a podcast on Google Podcasts, iTunes Podcasts, and Spotify.
Weekly interviews cover a wide variety of topics that interest the Native American community.
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February guests included: Kris Dosela "Chi Chino Spirit" O'odham Dance Group; Trisha Moquino and J'Shon Lee of Indigenous Educators; Kami Ortiz from Phoenix Indian Center; Elicia Goodsoldier from Phoenix Indian Center; Melvin Monette-Barajas of Indigenous Education; Jenice Gharib and Norman Patrick Brown of Dinetah Drama Festival; Cassandra Scott of the Tohono O'odham Community College, Jennifer Benally of Shinymoon Creations; Julene Price of Amigo Cafe; Michael Kotutwa Johnson, Ph.D. Hopi Dry Farming; Rena Priest, Poet; Michael John of Navajo Mike's; Pete Sands, Puppeteer of Navajo Highways; Jeffrey Lazos Ferns and Blayne Archer of the 2023 American Indian Festival; Mansel Nelson, Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals at Northern Arizona University; and Sydney Honyouti, Native STEM Women.
If you, or someone you know would like to be a guest on Native Talk Arizona please contact us.
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NATIVE HEALTH's Health Start Program |
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Are you expecting a baby? Do you have a child under the age of two? Our Health Start Program is perfect for you! Here at NATIVE HEALTH, we have a group of Community Health Workers (CHW’s) that work one-on-one with you and your baby up to 24 months. Each visit provides an opportunity to learn more about your health and wellness.
Health Start provides the following services:
*Answers to questions about pregnancy and care after your baby’s birth. *Information for you to prepare for labor and delivery. *Classes on Home Safety, Safe Sleep, Infant Massage, and more. *Assistance completing forms and making appointments for services related to AHCCCS, WIC and other family services. *Various classes on the importance of good nutrition and positive reinforcement of parents and children in their overall health and development.
There is no cost to join our program. If you, or someone you know, is interested please contact Brooke via email or (602) 463-4882.
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NATIVE HEALTH's WIC Program |
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Each year during the month of March NATIVE HEALTH WIC celebrates National Nutrition Month. The WIC program likes to focus on the importance of nutritious food choices most of the time and developing long lasting healthy eating habits. What are the ways that families can practice these healthy eating habits?
Eat right, bite by bite! National Nutrition Month focuses on the importance of making healthy food choices. It is easiest to start small and take baby steps. Try to cut back on sugary drinks and try some water flavored with fruit. Eat more plants! Have you thought about adding vegetables into your daily meals? What about adding vegetables to sandwiches and entrees? Snacks are an easy way to get extra fruit and vegetables. What about a fruit kabob? Don't forget water- it's healthy and can fill you up! Try one tip each week and learn how healthy food can help you feel great and give you energy.
The friendly and helpful WIC staff can assist you in making healthy choices.
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What does WIC provide?
· Monthly food benefits that can be used at local grocery stores
· Provide information about nutrition and health
· Breastfeeding support
· Help finding health care and other community services
NATIVE HEALTH WIC would like to remind all current and future participants that telephone appointments will continue to be available through April 2023.
If you are eligible to receive WIC or are a current WIC participant, you will receive the following cash value benefit:
· Breastfeeding: $49
· Pregnant and Postpartum (non-breastfeeding): $44
· Infant: $4 at 9 months of age
· Child: $ 25
To know more about WIC or to apply you can complete Pre-application online and our friendly and helpful WIC staff will contact you as soon as possible by calling 800-470-5930.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
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NATIVE HEALTH's Positive Indian Parenting |
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Positive Indian Parenting is a FREE, eight session, culturally-inspired, interactive class that explores the values and attitudes expressed in traditional Native American child-rearing practices, and then apply those values to modern parenting skills. One class per week, Tuesdays, 3:00-5:00 p.m., presented via Zoom. There are 30 slots available, and the group is open to the public.
Session 1: Traditional Parenting – Welcome and Introductions
Session 2: Lessons of the Storyteller
Session 3: Lessons of the Cradleboard
Session 4: Harmony in Child Rearing
Session 5: Traditional Behavior Management
Session 6: Lesson of Mother Nature
Session 7: Praise in Traditional Parenting
Session 8: Choices in Parenting: Completion Celebration
Positive Indian Parenting program will satisfy court requirements. Participants must complete six or more groups to receive certificate of completion and incentive. Anyone referred from social services or court for parenting group are encouraged to join. Free and open to all parents. Must reside in Maricopa County. Class materials will be mailed to participants.
For more information call (602) 279-5262, x 13002 or email Camille.
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NATIVE HEALTH's Mpox, COVID, and Flu Vaccines |
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Mpox vaccine, JYNNEOS, is now available at NATIVE HEALTH Central. The Outreach team has joined group efforts with Maricopa County Public Health to make Mpox vaccine accessible to those who need it. We are hoping to reach out to those most at risk for contracting mpox. Currently, data suggest that gay, bisexual, men who have sex with men, and individuals with multiple sex partners, make up the majority of Mpox cases. However, anyone who has been in close or personal contact with someone who has Mpox is at risk. JYNNEOS vaccine is approved for prevention of smallpox and Mpox. You can protect yourself and your community by getting vaccinated if you were exposed to or are at a higher risk of being exposed to Mpox. Please reach out to our Outreach Nurse Manager, Amber, at (602) 279-5262 x 14011 to set up a confidential Mpox vaccine appointment. |
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COVID-19 Vaccines. Are you up to date? You are considered up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines if you have completed the primary series and received the most recent booster, recommended by the CDC.
Did you know there is a new Bivalent Booster from Pfizer and Moderna for those 6 months and older? Both are made to offer better protection against Omicron variants (BA.4 and BA.5). These variants are the most recently seen strains and are more contagious than earlier strains. It is important to make sure you are up to date for the best protection.
Pfizer Bivalent booster is now available at all NATIVE HEALTH clinics. You can call for an appointment, and walk-ins are always welcome. The Bivalent booster is formulated to better protect against the most recent circulating COVID-19 variant, Omicron (BA.4 and BA.5).
Flu shots are also available at all NATIVE HEALTH locations.
KNOW YOUR STATUS! Concierge HIV Testing Now Available! HIV testing is now available at your home or office! We will come to you to provide confidential HIV testing that takes only 20 minutes from start to finish. Test on your time, in the comfort of your own surroundings. Schedule your concierge HIV testing by calling Nurse Amber at (602) 279-5262 x14011. Concierge HIV Testing is available Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
For more information about any of these vaccines or programs please call (602) 541-8680. You may also contact Amber via email.
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Want to get involved and help? |
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Are you looking to make a difference in the community? If so, NATIVE HEALTH is a great place to get involved. Please explore our opportunities.
We always need community support. This can be financial, in-kind donations and so much more!
(Photo taken pre-COVID).
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Indigenous Youth Media Workshop held at Northern Arizona University, June 25-July 1. Workshop participants will live in NAU's residence halls and work in the School of Communication's Medial Innovation Center newsroom and HD television studio. Workshop open for Indigenous youth in grades 8-12 with preference given to Native American high school juniors and seniors. For more info click here.
March 3 Deadline - Haskell University's Environmental Research Studies Summer Internship Program. For more information click here.
March 15 Deadline: Mayo Clinic's Native American Pathway, 2023 Virtual 5-week program, July 10-August 11, 2023. Open to AI/AN undergraduate students who are MD or MD-PhD seeking and preparing to enter medical school in the next two years. Deadline March 15. For more information or to apply, click here.
March 15 Deadline - National Native American Bar Association Foundation - For more information click here.
March 15 - Grand Canyon Trust - year long fellowship in Flagstaff. Multiple positions. For more information contact Amber via email.
March 24 Deadline - Summer Research Enhancement Program (SREP) of Dine' College. For more information click here.
April 28 - American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association's Tourism and Hospitality Scholarship. For more information, click here.
May 19 Deadline - Udall Foundation's Native American Graduate Fellowship in Tribal Policy. For more information click here.
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Tribal Resources
Native Americans with Cancer Support Group Healing Circle. Wednesdays. Virtual. Cancer Support Community of Northern Arizona. For more information call (928) 236-2333 or contact Sheena via email.
Arizona Department of Economic Security's Office of Tribal Relations - Link for any Tribal member in Arizona who is having here.
My Native Plate - Two page nutrition education tool, designed as a placemat. Easy to understand and shows balanced meals with reasonable portion sizes. For more information click here.
FREE tuition for undergraduate students from Arizona's 22 Federally recognized tribes who are studying on the main campus of University of Arizona in Tucson. For more information click here.
Native American Programs and Enrollment Information at ASU, UA, and NAU - For more information click here.
Strong Hearts Native Helpline - StrongHearts Native Helpline is a safe, anonymous and confidential domestic, dating and sexual violence helpline that offers culturally-appropriate support and advocacy for American Indians and Alaska Natives. For one-on-one advocacy, click on the Chat Now icon https://www.strongheartshelpline.org/ or call 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483).
Vision Maker Media - 6 videogames with Native American influences. For more information click here.
Veterans Benefits Administration - VA makes it easier to buy a home on Tribal land through the Native American Direct Loan. For more information click here.
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City of Phoenix VITA Tax Return Free Assistance - For more information and documents needed, please click here.
City of Flagstaff VITA Tax Services - free tax preparation for anyone earning up to $73,000. Visit https://uwt.onl/vita-gyrnau to work with our virtual local network of VITA tax preparers. This service opens Saturday, February 11, 2023. All you need is a smart phone, tablet or computer, access to secure WiFi, and your tax form documents. Items needed: Picture ID for taxpayer(s), social security card or each person listed on the return, and proof of income (W2's, 1099's if applicable). NAU EPI-CAIED at The W. A. Franke College of Business is in collaboration with United Way of Tucson.
Phoenix Art Museum now offers free admission daily to all Maricopa County Community College District students with an active ID. This program is called MC3 @ PAM. This also includes admission into special-engagement exhibitions. Phoenix Art Museum is located at 1625 N. Central Avenue, in Phoenix. For more information, click here.
Lend a Hand Program - The Lend a Hand Program pays off high-cost car title loans up to $3,000 for Maricopa County Residents. The program is partnership between Arizona Community Foundation, MariSol Federal Credit Union, and Take Charge America. The goal of the program is to rescue residents struggling to pay off car title loans and help put them on a path to healthy credit and financial success. For more information click here.
Home in Five Advantage - The Home in Five Advantage program helps low and moderate income homebuyers by offering a competitive loan interest rate with a non-repayable grant for down payment and closing costs. Additional assistance is also available to qualified U.S. Military personnel, veterans, teachers, first responders, and individuals with an annual income up to $31,450. For more information click here.
Sesame Street Workshop, Little Children, Big Challenges: Incarceration. For more information click here.
$3.00 Phoenix Zoo Opportunity and other museums for families who use EBT Card - For more information click here.
Pet related funding for victims of sexual and domestic violence. One time funding available for pet-related costs. For information call ACESDV at (602) 279-2980 or chat through www.acesdv.org.
Free WiFi hotspots in Arizona as well as training, tech support and more. Google Maps included with directions to get to free WiFi spots. For more information click here.
Marijuana Expungement Clinics - For more information click here.
Route to Relief at Maricopa Community Colleges. Free tuition, monthly stipends, and employment assistance for eligible programs across the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges. For more information please click here.
Girls Who Code - Free for high school students who identify as girls or non-binary can apply, and no prior computer science experience is required. Two week immersion program or six-week, self-paced experience that will allow students an opportunity to learning a style that works best for them while making meaningful connections. For more information click here.
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Community Resources and Events are provided to the community as a resource and are NOT endorsed by NATIVE HEALTH. |
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March 2 - VITA Tax Assistance and Community Legal Services Tax Assistance at NATIVE HEALTH Central. Appointments required. For more information contact Gabby.
March 3 - Touchstone's CARE Adolescent Conference Empowering Communities and Inspiring Youth. Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel and Spa. For more information click here.
March 4 - Phoenix Indian Center's 2nd Annual Indigenous Art Market. Held at the Native American Community Service Center, 4520 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix. 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. For more information click here.
March 4 - Read on Mesa, Dobson Ranch Library, 2425 S. Dobson Road, Mesa. 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Storytimes, library cards, crafts, activities and more.
March 4 - Phoenix Indian Center's 2nd Annual Indigenous Community Fashion Showcase, "Embracing Resilience & Indignity in Style." 5:30-9:00 p.m. at Brophy College Preparatory School, 4701 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix. Fee. For more information click here.
March 4-5 - 65th Annual Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market. Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix. For more information click here.
March 10 - 2023 Annual American Indian Suicide Prevention Convening. Phoenix Indian Center and Urban Indian Coalition of Arizona. 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at the Mesa Convention Center. Breakfast and lunch provided. For more information call (602) 264-6768. To register, click here.
March 16 - VITA Tax Assistance and Community Legal Services Tax Assistance at NATIVE HEALTH Central. Appointments required. For more information contact Gabby.
March 16 - Bank of America's Native American Beginning Entrepreneur Class- NATIVE HEALTH Mesa. For more information contact Gabby.
March 17-19 - 59th Annual Fair and Rodeo, Mul-Chu-Tha, "Celebrating Our Strength and Resilience as One", Sacaton. Carnival, rodeo, parade, pow-wow, car show, arts and crafts, and more. For more information call (520) 562-9713 or 9715 or check the website.
March 18 - NATIVE HEALTH's Bike Rodeo. NATIVE HEALTH Mesa, 777 West Southern Avenue, Mesa. For more information contact Gabby.
March 18-19 - 38th Annual Wa:k Pow Wow, behind the San Xavier Mission del Bar Church, Tucson. For information email them.
March 21-22 - Phoenix Indian Center's Virtually College Boot Camp, 4:30-6:30 p.m. virtually on Zoom. Raffle prizes. For more information click here.
March 22-23 - Piestewa Fallen Heroes Memorial. March 2, Evening Program/Dinner honoring families of Fallen Heroes, Veterans and Candlelight Vigil. March 23 - 20th Anniversary Service for Lori Piestewa and all our Fallen Heroes and Veterans. For more information click here.
March 23 - Piestewa Challenge, Ocotillo Ramada, Piestewa Peak Trailhead, Phoenix. 4:30 p.m. Circle of Remembrance Ceremony. For more information click here.
March 24 - 2023 American Indian Disability Summit. Desert Willow Conference Center and virtual. For more information click here.
March 25 - 3rd Annual American Indian Youth Disability Summit, "Reclaiming Traditional & Creation Stories of Indigenous Youth with Disabilities." 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. via Zoom. For more information contact Kimberly.
March 25 - Westwood High School's 17th Annual Social Pow Wow, Westwood High School, 945 W. Rio Salad, Mesa. For information contact Kristen via email.
March 25 - NATIVE HEALTH's Annual Prayer Walk. North Mountain to NATIVE HEALTH Central. Registration required. For more information contact Lanasha.
March 31 - AT Still University's Matter of Balance Classes begin at NATIVE HEALTH Central and NATIVE HEALTH Mesa. For more information or to register email Gabby.
March 31 - IDEAS (Indigenous Data Economies and Artificial Intelligence Summit) - ASU and the Rise Center in Scottsdale. For more info or to register, click here.
March 31- April 1 - Piipaash Matasheevm held at Lehi Gathering Area, 3221 N. Stapley Drive, Mesa, northeast corner of Oak Street and Stapley Drive.
April 1 - Ira Hayes Veterans Social Pow Wow, Sacaton Fairgrounds, Sacaton. For more info contact Marc at (520) 610-9411.
April 1-2 - Northern Arizona University's Mountain of Good Medicine Pow Wow, NAU Union Fieldhouse, 1050 Knoles Drive, Flagstaff. For more info call (928) 523-5340.
April 8 - Phoenix Indian Medical Center's Spring Into Health Kids Fair, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at Phoenix Indian Medical Center. For more information contact Roberta.
April 8 - Mesa Community College's Thunderbird Social Pow Wow, 1833 West Southern, Mesa. Gourd Dance 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Grand Entry 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
April 15 - 3rd Annual Two Spirit Pow Wow. Hosted by Phoenix Indian Center and South Mountain Community College. For more information call (602) 264-6768.
April 15 - Phoenix Indian Center's Indigenous Fall Ball Showcase. Indigenous football Combine and Indigenous Skills Volleyball Camp. Marcos de Niza High School. 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. For more information contact them.
April 18-19 - 2023 AACHC Annual Conference, Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch. For more information click here.
April 19-20 - 30th Annual Arizona Immunization Conference, Mesa Convention Center. Arizona Department of Health Services. For more information or to register, click here.
April 21-23 - ASU Pow Wow, Desert Financial Arena, Tempe.
April 21-22 - Flagstaff High School's Native American Club's 44th Annual Pow Wow. 400 West Elm, Flagstaff, 86001. Friday, Grand Entry at 7:00 p.m. Saturday, 1:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. For more information or vendors call (928) 773-8124.
April 28 - Maricopa County StandDown, Arizona State Fairgrounds for veterans. Services and resources including connections to affordable housing providers, career counseling, medical care, legal assistance, and more. For more information, click here.
April 28-30 - Association of American Indian Physicians 30th Cross Cultural Medicine workshop, "The Power of Being Your Authentic Self." Albuquerque. For more info or to register click here. Student scholarships available. For more info on scholarships email Gary.
May 2-4 - Native Public Media 2023 Native Broadcast Summit. For more information click here.
May 15-18 - National Council of Urban Indian Health's 23rd Annual Conference, Honoring Our Ancestors & Preparing for the Next Seven Generations. For more information click here.
June 1 - Women Are Sacred Conference. National Indigenous Women's Resource Center. For more information click here.
June 8-9 - Native American Student Advocacy Institute 2023 - San Diego. For more information click here.
June 12 - School Nurses Organization of Arizona Conference, "Back to Basics: The ABC's of School Nursing." Desert Willow Conference Center, Phoenix. For more information, click here.
July 10-12 - 2023 Healthy Kids! Healthy Futures! Conference. NB3 Foundation. Sandia Resort and Casino, New Mexico. For more information click here.
July 17-23 - 20th Annual Native American Basketball Invitational (NABI).
July 28-30 - 2023 Arizona Indian Education Association (AIEA's) 4th Annual "Protecting Our Land" Youth Summer Leadership Camp. Registration for American Indian students in grades 7-12. This year's theme is "Braiding the Elements of Life". For more information call IngriQue at (928) 380-3579 or email her IngriQue.
August 25 - Native Native Media Conference, Phoenix.
September 10-13 - 6th Annual Conference on Native American Nutrition, Mystic Lake, Minnesota.
November 7-9 - Native American Fatherhood and Families Association's 19th Annual "Fatherhood is Leadership" National Conference. For more information click here.
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Community Events and Resources are provided to the community as a resource and are NOT endorsed by NATIVE HEALTH. |
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NATIVE HEALTH - Stay Connected
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