“Culture is Prevention” is the theme of a critical federal grant that supports the Southern Ute Health Department’s Behavioral Health Division. By organizing creative, supportive and substance-free cultural events for youth, Behavioral Health aims to provide stability, encouragement – and most of all, FUN – at a time when many youth face challenges. We all remember what it was like to be a teenager – tensions with friends, maybe bullies, and peer pressure. One of the best things adults can do is give kids fun opportunities to engage their creativity, brain, and foster a sense of self-pride.
With the support from the Native Connections grant and thanks to the generous talent of Southern Ute elder, Jennifer Goodtracks, the Behavioral Health Division organized three ribbon-skirt making workshops in preparation for Bear Dance. All supplies, including high quality fabric, ribbons, and ongoing instruction, were provided free. Also helping support our events and activities is the 988 Grant through the Albuquerque Area Indian Health Board, who paid for all of the snacks. Each of these workshops took kids through the basics, such as how to use a sewing machine, and then supported them through the completion of their skirt. In the future, we hope to offer similar classes on ribbon shirts and shawls.
Tamara Turner, the Prevention Specialist with Behavioral Health, directing the Native Connections grant and pro-youth activities, has an arts background herself. “The arts got me through those tough times as a kid. They were a way to connect with others, express myself, and have a voice,” Turner said. “I want to make sure we provide opportunities for kids of all interests and backgrounds, not only athletics, although those are great too. With other Tribal departments such as KSUT, I’ve been working to support our youth through filmmaking workshops, hip hop and heavy metal music classes, an art mural coming up at the skate park, and more.”
Keep an eye out for future events. And please feel free to contact us with your suggestions if you have an idea to support the youth. 970-563-5700.
Here’s to your good health!
It’s okay not to feel okay
If you or someone you know has been struggling with their emotions, behaviors, or substance use please reach out to us. We can help you find appropriate tools and services that could help you overcome obstacles in your life. We are here for you. Please contact the Southern Ute Behavioral Health Division at 970-563-5700 for more information or to set up an appointment to see a counselor or therapist.
Reminder: If you need to talk to someone, please reach out.
And for those interested in opioid use education, harm reduction, and support, please contact us for quick Naloxone (Narcan) training and fentanyl test strips. We can schedule individual, family, or friends training times at our Southern Ute Behavioral Health Building, or we can come to you, and the training is around 30 minutes. Please call us at 970-563-5700 to set up a training appointment.