Native Challenge

The Native Challenge Department at Riverside-San Bernardino County Indian Health Inc. is committed to providing prevention and health education programs tailored specifically for Native American youth and their families. Our services focus on sexual health, teen pregnancy prevention, healthy lifestyles, and the preservation of cultural heritage, aimed at fostering strong, resilient community members.

Key Programs Offered by the Department

Tribal Family Partners: Strengthening Family Bonds

  • Family Support Services: Focuses on development-centered parenting, family well-being, and enhancing parent-child interactions.
  • Community Engagement: Hosts group connections to provide social gatherings that foster engagement among Native families, strengthening community bonds.
  • Eligibility: Available to families with Native American children aged 0 to 5.

Community Outreach on MMIP

  • Crisis Addressing: Works to address the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis through community engagement and educational programs.
  • Systemic Advocacy: Committed to recognizing and addressing the systemic neglect and historical trauma contributing to the MMIP crisis.
  • Support and Empowerment: Dedicated to empowering Native American families and youth, enhancing their ability to contribute to community resilience.

How We Can Assist You

  • Preventive Education: Offering comprehensive education on key health topics including sexual health and substance abuse prevention.
  • Cultural Re-connection: Encouraging involvement in culturally grounded activities that serve as a preventive measure against behavioral and mental health issues.
  • Family Strengthening: Providing tools and resources to help families nurture stronger bonds and overcome systemic challenges.

Interesting Facts About Our Work

  • Holistic Approach: We integrate traditional cultural values into our modern preventive programs to ensure culturally competent care.
  • Community-Centric: Annually, we reach hundreds of Native American families, providing them with the tools needed to lead healthy, empowered lives.
  • Advocacy and Action: Actively involved in advocacy to address and bring awareness to the MMIP crisis within Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

Message from our Department Manager

"We believe in the power of education, cultural integrity, and community support to uplift and strengthen our Native American families. By participating in our programs, you are taking a step towards building a healthier and more empowered community. We invite you to join us in this vital work—explore our services, engage in our activities, and let us move forward together. For more information or to get involved, please contact us. We are eager to support you and your family in every way we can."