The many connections and communications between community workers, institutions, governments, and community-based foundations linking to health promotion and disease prevention efforts in communities often go unrecognized. These links create stories of transformation, however. In 1999, over 700 participants closed a national conference on diabetes among American Indians, repeating together, “I want to help my people (IWHMP).” During the conference, John EagleShield described the Standing Rock Nation’s Community Health Representative (CHR) program and its relationship with diverse partners to improve diabetes outcomes. He read the poem, IWHMP, penned by CHRs and a friend from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This story of diabetes activism is rooted in collaboration among Tribal leaders, Indian Health Service, University of North Dakota, and the North Dakota Diabetes Control Program, partners who organized in 1995 to conduct CDC’s “Diabetes Today” course. A grant awarded to the UND Nursing Center by the Bremer Foundation established a program to train CHRs in diabetes prevention. Using a course curriculum approved for 2 college credits from Sitting Bull Community College, 70 CHRs have since earned continuing education certificates. The Standing Rock Nation recently honored a 10-year CHR veteran and diabetes course participant for his tireless dedication, even while undergoing repeated cancer treatments. For one “who put the needs of his community before his own,” CHR colleagues dedicated IWHMP to Eugene Parker before his death; his nephew read the poem for his eulogy. Links break and reconnect differently, but dedicated links will be forever part of the story.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant (learner) will be able to: 1) Describe at least one example illustrating the interwoven, sustained networking of partners committed to community-based diabetes support and education. 2) Describe at least 3 content areas focusing on interpersonal and community communication skills in a diabetes curriculum for community health representatives. 3) Describe at least one example of community health representatives in the role of activists for diabetes prevention and care in their communities and beyond.
Keywords: Community Assets, Community Health Promoters
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: N/A
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.