The National Indian Health Board (NIHB) is seeking examples of Tribal policies with best and promising practices that support vulnerable people living with cognitive impairment and their caregivers, especially during emergency situations. This type of policy may reside within Tribal codes or alongside health, mental health, aging, social services, food distribution, emergency management, public safety, transportation, or other types of policies.  Your thoughts are welcomed if no such policy or best and promising practice exists.

The purpose of this request is to inform the development of a toolkit, intended for Tribal health leaders and Tribal Government officials, to support people living with brain health challenges and their caregivers during a pandemic or other emergency conditions. If you have examples that you are willing to share or would like to provide general input on the contents of the toolkit, contact Karrie Joseph, kjoseph@nihb.org, or (202) 507-4079.

Eating not only nourishes the body but also the trillions of microbes living within your gut's microbiome. A recent Nature Medicine publication conducted by Harvard Medical School and other institutions showcases the relationship between healthy gut microbes and a plant-based diet. Co–senior author Andrew T. Chan from Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital says, "This study demonstrates a clear association between specific microbial species in the gut, certain foods, and risk of some common diseases," including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Read more here.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is now accepting applications for the Youth Preparedness Council (YPC). The YPC is an opportunity for young leaders to engage with FEMA and provide their perspectives, feedback, and opinions related to preparedness, to grow their leadership skills, and to support the resilience of their communities. Students in grades 8 through 11 are invited to apply. Selected members serve on the YPC for two years and support national and local preparedness projects. YPC members are chosen based on their passion for preparedness and helping others, their involvement in their community, and their aptitude for working in a team and as a leader. Read more here.

Job descriptions are available at www.nihb.org.

New! COVID-19 Resources:

The National Indian Health Board is committed to serving Tribal Nations in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Visit our COVID-19 Tribal Resource Center for more information and resources.

Join the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addictions Services for a webinar on strategies to cope with COVID-19. The current COVID-19 pandemic has impacted communities worldwide. Disruption of services due to bans on travel or group activities, decreased staffing levels, increased demands for services, and potential problems with the supply chain for medications, have strained every part of the healthcare, behavioral healthcare, and emergency management system. The impact on those already struggling with mental illnesses and substance abuse problems can represent a critical challenge to their safety and survival. This webinar will address the behavioral consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as strategies and techniques for coping. Register here.

Moderator: Kandra Strauss-Riggs, MPH, NCDMPH Education Director

Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at 2:00 PM ET

This webinar hosted by the AARP Fraud Watch Network will teach consumers how to spot and avoid frauds and to provide families when scam happens. Join Kathy Stokes, Director of Fraud Prevention Programs at AARP, for an interactive discussion about how to spot and avoid the latest scams and fraud. Read more here.

Please join the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region II National Preparedness Division for a webinar about US Department of Agriculture - Rural Development (USDA) Programs. Miguel Angel Ramirez, Public Information Officer, from USDA-Rural Development, will provide information on the Agency's available programs and funds. Their programs range from water, community facilities, industry, business, cooperatives, and rural housing. Program eligibility criteria and the application process will also be discussed. Register here.

Please join the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region II and Region V National Preparedness Divisions for a webinar on how you can resolve to be ready in 2021 by involving students in creating safer schools. Topics covered will include FEMA’s Student Tools for Emergency Planning program and other ways to empower youth to be preparedness leaders in their schools. Register here.

February 17 - April 7, 2021

The Climate Change and Human Health ECHO are hosting an 8-week training series with an evidenced-based curriculum covering the science of climate change and climate-related health effects. Health care providers, public health professionals, community health workers, social workers, and first responders will learn about 1) the impacts of climate change on human health and 2) how to communicate climate impacts with their patients/constituents and community members. Continuing education credits provided at no cost. Read more and register here.