Native communities face many challenges. Too often the strengths of families are strained by these challenges, and finding effective ways to support our families can be difficult. Our communities often find themselves dealing with the results of family and community disruption, (alcohol or drug abuse, unintended pregnancies, dropping out of school, etc) and are challenged to address the core issues.
ACE scores are significantly higher in indigenous American communities than in the broader population. ACEs can provide a framework for understanding many of the physical and mental health challenges facing indigenous communities. At the same time, the science of ACEs may point to solutions built upon the cultural foundations and strong resilience within our communities.
Strategies that bolster these protective factors can promote strength and resilience, both in individuals and communities, and have a high likelihood of preventing and reducing the impact of ACEs. Both the Trauma-informed care model (http://www.menomineensn.gov/CommunityPages/FosteringFutures/FosteringFuturesMain.aspx) and the Family Spirit program (http://caih.jhu.edu/programs/family-spirit) represent successful efforts to prevent and reduce the impact of ACEs in tribal communities.
To access the Toolkit, click https://www.aaip.org/programs/aces-toolkit/
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