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Alaska Native People Shaping Health Care Volume 16 Issue 5 October/November 2016

ANCHORAGE NATIVE NEWS

SCF Soldier's Heart Workshop Hosted for VeteransSCF

Southcentral Foundation Soldier’s Heart Workshop launched its inaugural training this summer. Soldier’s Heart, a pilot project developed by veterans for veterans, is designed to be a place of healing for veterans who have experienced combat-related, post-traumatic stress.

The workshop was written by Dr. Joseph Federici, a Vietnam veteran, and led by Alex Cetina, who is an improvement specialist at SCF and a five-tour combat veteran with the United States Army. The interactive workshop is named Soldier’s Heart in honor of a term used by military physicians dating back to the Civil War in 1861-65.

The workshop is not a medical/diagnostic program. It provides training and offers participants an educational experience. Personal stories are shared from presenters and workshop topics include: Risky Behaviors and Adrenaline Junkies; Survival Guilt and The Cost of Shame; Survival Strategies – Keeping Yourself Grounded; Trauma Triggers; and Grieving My Loss.

“Participants learn in Soldier’s Heart that post-traumatic stress (PTS) is a normal response to an extreme or shocking experience. The workshop hopes to remove the stigma related with PTS and recategorizes it as a normal human response to extreme experiences,” Cetina said.

Continued on page 2SCF Improvement Specialist and lead of Soldier's Heart workshop, Alex Cetina, with FWWI employee, Jocko Younger.

USPHS Officers Promote Safe Medication DisposalSCF Public Relations and

Pharmacy

Last spring, Southcentral Foundation Pharmacy participated in a health fair to celebrate the grand opening of the Indian Creek Health Center in Tyonek, Alaska. It was the inaugural SCF health fair for the community which has a population of 175 people.

There are barriers to providing health care in rural villages. Due to the remoteness, some medication disposal guidelines set by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cannot be followed.

United States Public Health Service Lieutenant Commander Jill Gelviro and Lieutenant Kristin Allmaras, pharmacists with SCF, took the opportunity to make a large public health impact in Tyonek. The pharmacists provided village-specific information and education about medication disposal to people living in the area.

This unique opportunity allowed them to train clinic personnel and health care aides on appropriate medication disposal. Gelviro and Allmaras talked about medication

disposal, shared general medication education and discussed other pharmacy-related concerns.

They provided instructions on how to appropriately dispose of all medications and distributed small Ziploc bags with specific medication disposal instructions

attached. The six-hour health fair resulted in enhanced medication safety throughout the community, the new clinic and their water supply.

In partnership with SCF, Tyonek opened Indian Creek Health Center, a federally designated Community Health

Center. Located across Cook Inlet, 45 miles from Anchorage, Tyonek is accessible only by boat or plane.

For more information about

proper medication disposal,

contact SCF Pharmacy

at (907) 729-4172 or visit

southcentralfoundation.com.

United States Public Health Service (USPHS) Lieutenant Chelsea Royal, USPHS Lieutenant Commander Jill Gelviro and USPHS Lieutenant Kristen Allmaras (pictured left to right) visited the Indian Creek Health Center in Tyonek to promote safe medication disposal.

October/November 2016 Anchorage Native News

southcentralfoundation.com • twitter.com/SCFinsider • twitter.com/SCFNuka • facebook.com/SouthcentralFoundation

The Anchorage Native News (ANN) is published by Southcentral Foundation

Public Relations.

If you have questions, comments, want to submit articles or be added to our mailing list, please contact the editor

per the information below.

ANN reserves the right to edit all submissions for clarity, length and

content. Every article will be considered for publication

depending upon space available.

SCF Public Relations4501 Diplomacy Drive

Anchorage, Alaska 99508

Phone: (907) [email protected]

southcentralfoundation.com

Managing EditorConnie Irrigoo

E-mail: [email protected]: (907) 729-4946

Fax: (907) 729-5069

SCF Public RelationsDenise Bingham (Event Specialist)

Tara Carey (Specialist)Ashley Christiansen (Graphic Designer)

John Cripps (Graphic Designer)Michael Doyle (Senior PR Specialist)Jennifer Gifford (Graphic Designer)Lisa-Marie Ikonomov (PR Director)

Lyla Marey (Specialist)Jenny Miller (Specialist)

Melissa Peguero (Specialist)Riley Stewman (Assistant)Ryan Stewman (Assistant)

Alyssa Sasser (Program Coordinator)Karla Starbard (Manager)

Matthew Wichorek (Specialist)

SCF VisionA Native Community that enjoys physical, mental, emotional and

spiritual wellness.

SCF MissionWorking together with the Native

Community to achieve wellness through health and related services.

SCF Board of DirectorsJames Segura (Chairman)

Charles G. Anderson (Vice-Chairman)Karen Caindec (Secretary/Treasurer)

Charles Akers (Director)Roy Huhndorf (Director)

Dr. Terry Simpson (Director)Loretta Throop (Director)

SCF President/CEODr. Katherine Gottlieb

© 2016 Southcentral Foundation

Research Changes Employee’s PerspectiveAndrew Walker

SCF Research

Working with Southcentral Foundation's Research has changed my perspective of improving health care. I learned that it’s not just asking how we can, as a health care organization, provide better services, but how can we improve the health of Alaska Native people. As a 24-year-old Athabascan, Haida, Inupiaq man, this new insight is valuable to me.

When I started with SCF Research, I had no expectations – only wanting to help with their administrative tasks part-time. I was intrigued by what I was learning, so I decided to move to full-time. The intriguing point for me was that the varied research studies all have a purpose: improve Alaska Native people’s health care. This stood out to me because it focuses on the Alaska Native/American Indian communities, and these studies could help other communities too.

There are more than 20 studies just at SCF. These studies include quitting tobacco, alcohol treatment, fighting diabetes, and addressing depression, suicide and trauma. They’re based on the Native Community’s needs by focusing on and gathering information regarding critical issues from community members. We’re also learning more about traditional approaches such as traditional healing, medicines, sharing story and then sharing what we learn.

SCF Research is committed to improving health care and I understand that passion now.

I’ve seen what researchers love doing and in turn, am finding my own interest and continuing to grow, particularly in the area of personalized medicine.

I’m considering more education and training in this field, as this type of work is something I’d like to explore.

In my brief time with SCF Research, I can honestly say I want to learn more. I look forward to how our work can further help the Alaska Native and American Indian community.

For more information on research

project findings or to enroll in a

research project, please call SCF

Research at (907) 729-8623 or go

online at southcentralfoundation.

com/services/research.

20th ANNUAL GATHERINGSOUTHCENTRAL FOUNDATION

Saturday, February 4 | 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.Egan Civic and Convention Center

Anchorage, Alaska

To learn more, visit southcentralfoundation.com

Soldier's Heart Workshop, Continued from page 1

Upon completion of the workshop, participants celebrate healing and have an opportunity to enjoy

seasonal interactive activities as part of the graduate’s celebration experience.

One participant who completed the training shared, “I just wanted to say thank you for what you do; I want you to know that you’ve made a profound impact on my life one that will last me a lifetime.”

SCF thanks veterans for their service to our country – for their dedication, work and sacrifices. In honor of and in appreciation, this program is offered to all veterans. The Soldier’s Heart workshop is an educational program and no documentation, notes, nor recording of mental health information is conducted.

For more information or to receive an application please email [email protected].

Solder's Heart Workshop participants gather with SCF employees for a group photo.

Andrew Walker (right), with Dr. Michelle Tierney, Vice President of Organizational Development and Innovation.



SHARED

RESPON

SIBILITY

We valueworkingtogether

with theindividual,the family

and the

community.

Health Campus Celebrates 10 Years Tobacco FreeSCF Public Relations

The Alaska Native Health Campus was among the first health campuses in Alaska to implement a tobacco-free policy. For 10 years, the policy has applied to customer-owners, visitors and employees.

Differing from smoke free, the tobacco-free campus prohibits the use of cigarettes, chewing tobacco, iqmik, e-cigarettes and vaping. With a vision of a Native Community that enjoys physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness, Southcentral Foundation believes employees must model good health behaviors during work hours and in all places SCF provides services.

SCF employee Tanya Kashevarof has been tobacco free for seven years. Kashevarof chose to quit tobacco after becoming aware of the tobacco-free policy and recognizing health risks and financial stress associated with tobacco use.

“It’s an expensive habit!” Kashevarof said. “I made an appointment with a tobacco treatment specialist, did the intake and used patches and lozenges to help with the cravings. Some days were harder than others, but with the encouragement of my family, friends, new co-workers and my tobacco treatment specialist calling to check up on me, I was able to stick to a quit plan that really worked!”

Employees at SCF are expected to provide an environment that promotes the health and safety of all individuals during work hours by refraining from smelling of secondhand smoke or tobacco, using tobacco products during work hours or having visible tobacco products.

The policy discouraged Kashevarof from smoking by removing a convenient place to smoke: the workplace. “[The policy] made it easier to abstain from using tobacco all day at work,” Kashevarof said. “I called

my quit coaches – who were on campus – and they walked me through cravings and had some really great suggestions: cinnamon sticks.”

Kashevarof says tobacco is not tradition, “Let’s keep it away from the next generation.”

Customer-owners and employees

interested in quitting tobacco

can contact SCF’s Quit Tobacco

Program at (907) 729-2689 in

Anchorage or (907) 631-7630 in

Wasilla. The program offers one-on-

one counseling, follow-up services,

group counseling and access to

nicotine replacement therapy.

The Alaska Native Health Campus has been tobacco free for 10 years. Prohibited products include the use of cigarettes, chewing tobacco, iqmik, e-cigarettes and vaping.

YOU DON'T HAVE TO QUIT TOBACCOCOLD TURKEY

Join others across the nation using the Great American Smokeout as a day to quit tobacco forever. Talk with Southcentral Foundation tobacco treatment specialists about ways you can become tobacco free. Learn about the

benefits of SCF’s Quit Tobacco Program such as one-on-one counseling, follow-up services, group counseling and nicotine replacement therapy. Just for stopping by you are eligible to win prizes such as a frozen turkey or Little Chief smoker!

For more information, please contact SCF Health Education at (907) 729-2689 or visit southcentralfoundation.com.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Thursday, November 17

Anchorage Native Primary Care Center lobby

Activities: Information and resources for quitting tobacco, Alaska Native dance group and selfie booth.

Great American Smokeout Event



FDA Warns Consumers About Decorative Contact LensesYou may want to look like your favorite movie star, singer or have the perfect look for Halloween, but choosing to change the look of your eyes with contact lenses could cause serious damage to your eyesight if you get them without the input of your eye care professional. Decorative contact lenses are sometimes called, among other names:• fashion contact lenses• Halloween contact lenses• colored contact lenses• cosmetic contact lenses• theatre contact lenses

Decorative contact lenses change the look of your eyes. They do not correct your vision. They can temporarily change your brown eyes to blue or make your eyes look like cat eyes or vampire eyes for Halloween.

Did you know decorative contact lenses are actually medical devices? The U.S. Food and Drug Administration oversees their safety and effectiveness.

Just like corrective contact lenses, you should never buy contact lenses from a street vendor, beauty supply store, flea market, novelty store or Halloween store - and you should always have a prescription from a licensed eye care provider.

Before stepping out with your new look, here's what you need to know.

Know the Risks

Wearing decorative contact lenses can be risky, just like the contact lenses that correct your vision.Wearing any kind of contact lenses, including decorative ones, can cause serious damage to your eyes if the lenses are obtained without a prescription or not used correctly.

Risks Include:

• A cut or scratch on the top layer of your eyeball (Corneal Abrasion)• Allergic reactions like itchy, watery red eyes• Decreased vision• Infection• Blindness When wearing any type of contact lenses, be

aware of signs of possible eye infection, which

include:

• Redness• Pain in the eye(s) that doesn't go away after a short period of time• Decreased vision

If you have any of these signs, see a licensed eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist) right away! An eye infection could become serious and lead to blindness if it is not treated.

You can avoid some of these risks by getting any type of contact lenses from your eye doctor. Be

sure to follow your doctor's directions for cleaning, disinfecting and wearing the lenses. If your doctor doesn't give you any directions - ask for them!

Do's and Don'ts

Do get an eye exam! A licensed eye doctor will examine your eyes to make sure the contact lenses fit properly. The fit of your contact lenses is important. A wrong fit can cause damage to your eyes. Schedule follow-up exams to ensure eye health.

Do get a prescription! Your eye doctor will write you a prescription for all contact lenses, including decorative lenses. The prescription should include the brand name, correct lens measurements and expiration date.

Do follow the contact lens care instructions!

Follow the instructions for wearing, cleaning and disinfecting your contact lenses. If you do not receive instructions, ask an eye doctor for them.

Do seek medical attention right away and remove

your contact lenses if your eyes are red, have

ongoing pain or discharge! Redness, pain and discharge from the eyes are signs of an eye infection. If you think you have an eye infection from your contact lenses, remove them and see an eye doctor right away.

Don't share your contact lenses with anyone! You wouldn't share your toothbrush would you? All eyes are not the same size and shape. Your contact lenses are fitted just for you.

Don't buy any contact lenses without a prescription! If you don't see an eye doctor and get a prescription, then the contact lenses you get may not fit properly and may not work well. They could even damage your eyes. Sometimes wearing contact lenses can damage the top layer of your eyeball (cornea). Even if you aren't having any problems now, the lenses still could be causing damage to your eyes. By having regular checkups and buying contact lenses with a prescription, you will reduce the chances of any undetected damage to your eyes.

Reprinted courtesy of FDA. Edited for content.

http://www.fda.gov/medicaldevices/productsand

medicalprocedures/homehealthandconsumer/

consumerproducts/contactlenses/ucm270953.htm

This past August the Benteh Nuutah Valley Native Primary Care Center (VNPCC) Optometry celebrated a successful first year of services in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. With a team of 12, VNPCC Optometry has provided more than 4,220 appointments. VNPCC Optometry offers:

• Comprehensive examinations• Contact lens fitting• Eye disease management

• Special testing

• Surgical referrals

• Full service optical shop that provides eyeglasses, eyeglass repairs and contact lenses

Benteh Nuutah Valley Native Primary Care Center

OPTOMETRY CELEBRATESSUCCESSFUL 1st YEAR

To make your optometry appointment at the Benteh Nuutah Valley Native Primary Care Center call (907) 631-7640.

A licensed eye doctor will examine your eyes to make sure the contact lenses fit properly. The fit of your contact lenses is very important.



COM

MITM

ENT TO

QU

ALITY

We strive to provide the best services for the Native Community.

SCF Earns Aurora Award for Flu Blues CampaignMichael Doyle

Senior Public Relations Specialist

What do you get when you strum a chord of collaboration, drop a backbeat of creativity and sing for a good cause? For Southcentral Foundation, the mix turned into an award-winning public relations song and campaign to raise awareness for flu prevention. It all began as a simple T-shirt idea.

Last fall, SCF Public Relations received a request from SCF Quality Assurance, who wanted a creative, fun shirt for employees to wear when administering flu shots to co-workers. Kathleen Bonnar, public relations specialist, took the assignment, but recognized the need for additional flu prevention awareness in the Native Community.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that the flu is among the top 10 causes of death among Alaska Native and American Indian people. A study appearing in the American Journal of Public Health found the death rate from influenza for Alaska Native and American Indian people living in Alaska were more than two times higher than Caucasians.

“The flu has a huge impact on the Native Community,” Bonnar said. “But there are steps we can take to help reduce the risk of getting sick.”

The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. Additionally, handwashing and steering clear of others with the flu can help stop it from spreading.

Seeing an opportunity to reach beyond a T-shirt, Bonnar connected with fellow specialist, Michael Doyle, to orchestrate a broader communication plan.

“Michael was working with SCF Medical Services Division, so I thought we could get their involvement and turn it into something that had a lasting effect in the Native Community,” Bonnar said. “We started to brainstorm and ideas started rolling from there.”

It started as a joke: Maybe they could write a blues song about the flu. But the more they strummed the idea, the more things began sounding like notes in a chord.

“The Flu Blues” public service announcement and “Don’t Get the Flu Blues” campaign were born. Bonnar and Doyle enlisted the detailed eye of Jennifer Gifford, SCF graphic designer, to create the art – a band designed from actual viruses. As luck would have it Gifford’s father, Mike, played guitar and sang. Through a partnership with KNBA 90.3 FM, Doyle and Mike Gifford recorded the PSA at its studio, with Mike belting the syrupy vocals.

Along with the PSA airing on KNBA, the group created a video slideshow, poster, fliers and social media posts about the free October flu shot clinic in the Anchorage Native Primary Care Center. In total, 955 flu shots were administered during SCF’s October clinic and at the Alaska Native Medical

Center’s free clinic during the 2015 Alaska Federation of Natives Convention.

Seeing the positive results, SCF Public Relations entered the campaign for two Aurora Awards, the yearly honor recognized by the Public Relation Society of America Alaska Chapter. The team took home first place for multicultural public relations campaign and third for radio material.

“When we first started, we weren’t thinking of winning an award,” Bonnar said. “The intent was to raise awareness about flu prevention methods. But to be honored for your hard work feels great. Hopefully, we helped educate and encourage people to get an annual flu vaccination.”

Flu shots are available every Saturday in

October and November in the Anchorage

Native Primary Care Center 2 East, 4320

Diplomacy Drive.

Don’t get the flu blues

Get Vaccinated!

The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.

SCF Public Relations

Inspiring to many, Southcentral Foundation President/CEO Dr. Katherine Gottlieb began her career in the organization in an administrative support role. Many employees at SCF have similar stories and continue to find success achieving their career goals.

Beverly Horton, manager at the Benteh

Nuutah Valley Native Primary Care Center (VNPCC), has worked at SCF for six years. She began in an administrative support role, progressed to a program coordinator, supervisor and now, manager.

Horton applied for a job at SCF unaware it would become a career opportunity.

“I wanted to be part of an organization that provided services to Alaska Native people, so I knew I wanted to work here for an extended period of time,” Horton said. “It wasn’t until

I started progressing and realizing the work that SCF does that I began to see SCF as my forever home.”

As a manager, Horton gets the opportunity to support her employees’ progression desires – just as her supervisors did for her.

“I feel that maybe I was being groomed, to some degree, because my manager had started out as an admin too,” Horton said. “She constantly voiced her trust and belief in my skills and abilities to eventually manage a department. She was helpful in pointing out [opportunities for improvement] and was a resource and even encouraged me to seek out other resources to find and become comfortable in my own style of leadership.”

Start your career journey at SCF in

Anchorage, Wasilla or a rural location by

applying online at southcentralfoundation.

com/employment. VNPCC Manager Beverly Horton has progressed from administrative support in six years.

VNPCC Employee Progresses to Manager in Six Years



Alaska Cleft Lip and Palate Clinic to be Offered at SCFSCF Dental

In partnership with the State of Alaska, Southcentral Foundation Dental assumed management of the Alaska Cleft Lip and Palate Clinics in October. Under SCF administration, the clinic will continue to serve all families in Alaska affected by cleft lip and palate (CLP), and will be called the Alaska Cleft Lip and Palate Program at SCF.

SCF will remain partners with private subspecialty providers to provide the full range of services that children with CLP require. This will ensure the highest quality of care for customer-owners and non-Native children across the state. In addition, SCF will provide full case management and behavioral health services to better serve families who utilize the CLP program.

SCF has been a contributing partner with the Alaska Cleft Lip and Palate Clinics for over 20 years. In Anchorage, SCF hosts the clinics on the Alaska Native Health Campus. The clinics will serve people of all ages who have been diagnosed with cleft lip and/or palate. Although it usually requires corrective surgery early in life, the condition is life-long, with many needing intense speech, dental or other therapy for years after their initial surgery. Approximately 70 percent of the families who visit the CLP clinics are Alaska Native or American Indian.

The Alaska Cleft Lip and Palate Clinics traditionally have been held as quarterly, half-day clinics. Due to the historically abbreviated schedule, families often leave the clinics without a full understanding of the next steps for care.

SCF’s cleft lip and palate program structure will change to give families more time with providers. Services will be offered over a course of two days and occur at least six times per year. Families will have time and space to ask providers about the diagnosis, treatment and next steps. This will support families to actively take part in managing the care of their children. Finally, the program will expand services to adults with CLP, should they continue to need services.

For more information, contact:

Jeanette Akin – Manager

Alaska Cleft Lip and Palate Program at SCF

4315 Diplomacy Drive

Anchorage, Alaska 99508

(907) 729-6535

southcentralfoundation.com

Construction is underway for the new children's dental building on Diplomacy Drive, which will house the Cleft Lip and Palate Clinic.

The Education and Research Towards Health Study is Back! SCF Research

In 2004, the two year EARTH Study (Education and Research Towards Health) began. During a study visit, participants answered survey questions, had their bodies measured, and gave blood and urine samples.

This might sound familiar because the EARTH study is back and SCF Research has been contacting original participants to ask if they would come in for a follow-up study visit – 10 years later!

The study will look at the rate of diabetes in the Alaska Native Community, with the hope that one day it will be preventable. Participation will help the researchers find new information about how diet and activity levels affect overall health.

If past EARTH study participants are interested in contributing, they will be asked to answer survey questions and have their bodies measured, like the visit 10 years ago. There will also be a fasting blood draw and a urine sample collected. During the visit, participants will learn their blood sugar and blood fat (cholesterol) levels.

Participants will receive the numbers from the original visit and be able to compare them to their current numbers. This will show how their health has changed over the past 10 years. Participants will receive a $30 VISA gift card at the end of the visit.

For more information on the EARTH

Study or to schedule your follow-

up visit, please call SCF Research

at (907) 729-7287 or go online

southcentralfoundation.com/services/

research.The study will look at the rate of diabetes in the Alaska Native Community, with the hope that one day it will be preventable.



FAMILY W

ELLNESS

We work to promote

wellness that goes beyond

absence of

illness and

prevention of disease.

Make a Difference: Connect, Communicate and Care SCF Denaa Yeets’

Suicide can be difficult and uncomfortable to talk about. Nevertheless, it is an important conversation to have with family and friends. Publicly talking about suicide shines the light on a complex issue and opens the door to healing. Connecting, communicating and showing care are important steps that can make a difference for those at risk or affected by suicide.

Southcentral Foundation's Denaa Yeets' provides specialized support to Alaska Native and American Indian adults who are at risk for suicide. Denaa Yeets', Athabascan for "Our Breath of Life,” expresses the program's purpose: to help participants develop an increased sense of self-worth, cultural identity and desire to live.

It is important to be aware most, but not all, people who die by suicide show warning signs. Denaa Yeets' offers different levels of support for those who are at risk of suicide and those impacted by the loss of a friend or family member due to suicide.

Denaa Yeets’ also provides several trainings including Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), safeTALK, grief support group and postvention.

Here is how you can get involved to help those who are at risk of or affected by suicide: • ASIST training for caregivers to build skills in preventing the immediate risk of suicide. • safeTALK is training for those who already have suicide intervention training, such as ASIST, to become versed in how to teach others those skills.

• Grief support group helps those who have been impacted by the loss of a friend or family member to suicide. • Postvention (counseling and other social care given after the experience of a traumatic event, especially to those directly affected by the event) helps coordinate a safe and supportive response including how to respond to media, restricting access to information on lethal means for harming themselves. (e.g. guns, pills), funerals and memorial activities.

Denaa Yeets’ can help connect individuals with thoughts of suicide to intervention strategies.

Denaa Yeets’ makes a difference in the lives of those at risk including case management,

supported referral to professional behavioral health programs, information and supportive services to affected family members.

Warning signs that are associated with suicide are important to recognize, however, they are frequently not the root cause of a suicide. The more signs of suicide a person shows, the greater the risk.

Warning Signs

• Talks about wanting to die• Looks for a way to kill oneself• Talks about feeling hopeless or having no purpose• Talks about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain• Talks about being a burden to others• Increases the use of alcohol or drugs• Acts anxious, agitated or reckless• Sleeps too little or too much• Withdraws or feels isolated• Shows rage or talks about seeking revenge• Displays extreme mood swings

What to do if someone you know shows

warning signs of suicide:

• Do not leave the person alone• Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt• Call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-TALK (8255)• Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional

For more information, please call

Denaa Yeets' at (907) 729-5260 or visit


Denaa Yeets’ can help connect individuals with thoughts of suicide to intervention strategies.

Schedule an Exam: October is Dental Hygiene MonthSCF Dental

Dental hygienists are often thought of as the people who polish and clean our teeth, but did you know they do more than just cleanings?

Former U.S. Surgeon General David Satcher noted in a report that poor oral health is a “Silent x-factor promoting the onset of life threatening diseases.” He identified oral health as essential to one’s general health and well-being. However, not everyone is achieving the same degree of oral health.

Even with safe and effective means of maintaining oral health that have benefited the majority of Americans over the past half century, many still experience needless pain and suffering. Many experience complications that devastate overall health and well-being, and financial and social costs that diminish the quality of life. What amounts to “a silent epidemic” of oral diseases is affecting our most vulnerable citizens – children, elderly and many members of racial and ethnic minority groups.

The terms oral health and general health should not be interpreted as separate entities. Oral health is integral to general health. The Surgeon General’s report provides important reminders that oral

health means more than healthy teeth: you cannot be healthy without oral health. Furthermore, the report outlines existing safe and effective disease prevention measures that everyone can adopt to improve oral health and prevent

disease. Prevention includes regular dental visits to help learn more about proper care for teeth and gums. In addition, a proper diet, brushing and flossing all play an important role in maintaining a healthy smile and preserving teeth. Cavities and periodontal (gum) disease can be a threat to all ages.

“Dental hygienists are licensed oral health professionals who focus on helping to maintain oral health,” said Dr. Kevin Gottlieb, Southcentral Foundation's Vice President of Resource and Development. “Dental hygienists work to protect teeth and gums and protect customer-owners’ overall health.”

If it’s been a while since your last dental exam and cleaning, call and make an appointment today. Your mouth and body will thank you.

To schedule a dental exam with

SCF Fireweed Dental in

Anchorage, please call

(907) 729-2000. For those in

Mat-Su, please call (907) 631-

7960 to schedule a dental exam at

the Benteh Nuutah Valley Native

Primary Care Center.

You cannot be healthy without oral health, an important reminder from the Surgeon General's report.



SCF Public Relations and NMWP

Today’s technology and yesterday’s traditions are woven together by a leader that understands the challenges Alaska Native men face of honoring traditional practices while living a successful modern life. Native Men’s Wellness Program (NMWP) Manager David Farve has embarked on a project that has taken a few wellness interns and employees on a journey of cultural lessons, while developing practical skills that will help maintain sustainable employment. The tangible result of this journey is a traditional banya, or sauna, built by wellness interns. The intangible outcome is increased cultural knowledge, practical job skills and self-awareness.

A banya is a small room or building designed as a place to cleanse, purify and enjoy in a communal setting. Steam bathing traditionally is a place to meet and socialize, relax, revive tired muscles and leave stress behind. Native people across Alaska have a form or version of a banya that may look different from the outside but accomplish the same purpose of creating steam, closeness and an opportunity to cleanse.

Lead by Farve and support staff from NMWP, a group of six wellness interns began to build a banya in April and completed the project this fall. New to the NMWP, David Farve brought a wealth of talent and skills to share and instill upon the NMWP

wellness interns. The wellness interns started with varying levels of work and life experience; each began this project with openness and a willingness to learn.

"I learned a lot of real life and applicable experience; what type of wood to use in different applications, what type of screws are needed, how to put in a window, install sheetrock, sand wood and paint," said Gabe Larson, NMWP admin support. In the process of building the banya, we received different opinions on how to build the cool down room and what type of stove we should use; it shows the common themes, as well as the diversity of traditions within Alaska Native Cultures."

While balancing time at work sites and attending learning circles designed for the NMWP participants, wellness interns worked over the summer to construct the banya, working on the project only on Wellness Fridays (a day designated for wellness activities outside of assigned work sites). With the limited time per week to tend to the banya, wellness interns were able to put into practice their planning, prioritizing and scheduling skills.

“The experience for me was helping others to learn how to operate and offer advice that I acquired

through construction," said wellness intern Paul Wood. "Sharing what I've learned from the past and walking through the steps to run power tools and seeing the intern’s reaction to operating power tools was pretty cool."

The NMWP program staff and wellness interns put their best work ethic to practice and achieved a high level of performance and commitment to quality. When the banya is used, the hope is that the care and attention to detail will be evident. The entire project created a way for the wellness interns to learn traditions of Alaska Native people, build relationships and increase usable job skills. The added bonus for the wellness interns is to know they had a part in constructing a sacred space where people can socialize, relax and leave behind the stress of the day.

“The building of this neli (steam bath in Dena`ina) is the indigenous approach to wellness,” said wellness intern Steven Holley.

To learn more about the NMWP program please call

(907) 729-5208 or visit southcentralfoundation.com/

services/native-mens-wellness/. NMWP is located at

6160 Tuttle Place, Anchorage, Alaska 99507.

Dr. Katherine Gottlieb, SCF President/CEO, enjoys time with NMWP Interns. David Farve (top left) works alongside wellness interns.

Wellness interns worked over the summer to construct the banya.

SCF FWWI

Southcentral Foundation Family Wellness Warriors Initiative (FWWI) relocated into the Nuka Learning and Wellness Center on the Alaska Native Health Campus this past spring. Since then, FWWI has hosted learning circles including Wellness Matters Night every Thursday. In addition, Advanced Leadership Education and Training (ALET) and the 12th annual Palmer Correctional Center Transformational Living Community (TLC) Arrigah House is held weekly.

At the Palmer Correctional Center Arrigah House, men are taught what healthy anger looks like, the importance of empathy, what it looks like to use their strength to protect, and are provided tools for healthy relationships and wellness.

“What I received most from the training was a strong compassion and empathy for those who have harmed me and others, a great desire to not harm others in any way, and a deep appreciation for people, our thoughts, emotions and words,” a participant shared.

Another group member expressed, “I want this program to be taught to the entire world!” FWWI is excited for the coming year and looks forward to expanding its impact across Alaska with new partnerships in communities such as Kotzebue, St. Paul and McGrath.

Applications for November's Beauty

for Ashes training are being accepted.

Register today by contacting FWWI at

(907) 729-5440 to apply or visit

www.fwwi.org.

FWWI Offers Trainings and Leaning Circle Opportunities

FWWI relocated into the Nuka Learning and Wellness Center on the Alaska Native Health Campus.

Native Men's Wellness Interns Build Cultural Connection



LIVING

OU

R VALUES

LOV awards recognize

employees and

teams who, over time, have demonstrated

exceptional

commitment

to SCF’s

mission, vision and values.

Researcher Lisa Dirks coordinates various aspects of research projects, including participant recruitment and writing research proposals, project reports and manuscripts. She continually applies her technical expertise in ways that honor and build relationships, and encourages and supports an individual’s journey to wellness.

Lisa DirksResearcher

Research and Data Services

Tribal doctor and Elder advisor Lisa Dolchok uses culture to help customer-owners reconnect with who they are and achieve physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness. Dolchok engages by listening and creating dialogue. Using her understanding of Elder priorities and needs, she advocates across the organization to support Elders.

Lisa DolchokTribal Doctor/Elder Advisor

Traditional Healing

Christina Edwards is currently one of the Alaska Native Medical Center Emergency Department Fast Track coordinators. Edwards assisted with the development of processes and procedures for the training manual for Fast Track. She has been instrumental in the training of numerous employees that work the evening shift.

Christina EdwardsProgram Coordinator

Fast Track

Dr. Stephanie Eklund is a medical provider for OB-GYN and provides services to outpatient, inpatient and rural customer-owners. She is also an experienced surgeon. Eklund’s willingness to go above and beyond for customer-owners demonstrates that she is an example to her co-workers and lives our values.

Stephanie EklundMedical Provider

OB-GYN

Cary Fremin is a health educator at the Benteh Nuutah

Valley Native Primary Care Center’s Wellness Center, educating customer-owners about disease prevention and health promotion. Fremin’s focus changed to prevention in hopes of improving wellness, rather than treating illness in the Native community.

Cary FreminHealth Educator

VNPCC Wellness Center

John Griffin is a member of an integrated care team who facilitates learning circles, serves as care team support and coordinates customer-owner care. He acts as a liaison and referral to community resources and follows up with customers. Griffin works hard in his contribution to the customers at the QCH.

John GriffinClinical Associate

Quyana Clubhouse

Julie Haug is an optician apprentice studying to be a licensed optician at the Benteh

Nuutah Valley Native Primary Care Center’s Optometry Clinic. Haug lives our values and believes in putting the customer-owner first. She understands the wellness of the customer is, first and foremost, the reason we are all here.

Julie HaugOptician Apprentice VNPCC Optometry

Mary Herrick has been a SCF Pediatric Hospitalist for more than 13 years, where she coordinates and manages care for ill or premature newborns. She is the NICU’s lead hospitalist and serves on the NICU Committee, promoting a multi-disciplinary team approach for improving customer-owner safety.

Mary HerrickPediatric Hospitalist Inpatient Pediatrics

Charlene Houck is a licensed practical nurse (LPN) at Alaska Native Medical Center Fast Track. Houck has taken on the role of charge nurse and trains new employees. She has helped coordinate and build lesson plans for training. She collaborates with providers and developed a splint training class for new LPN staff.

Charlene HouckLicensed Nurse Practitioner

Fast Track

Kelly Jensen manages a panel of more than 1,200 children. She genuinely applies all of her attention to each customer, allowing them to feel as though they are her only appointment for the day. She continuously works with families to ensure the goals of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness are met, often staying late.

Kelly JensenRN Case Manager

Outpatient Pediatrics

Tanya Kashevarof is a program coordinator with health education, engaging customer-owners and employees in individual and group settings on a variety of health topics. Kashevarof has established great relationships with customers as they make healthy lifestyle choices that are sometimes difficult.

Tanya KashevarofProgram Coordinator

Health Education

Nuee Lampkin provides learning and development support to the workforce and external clients through facilitation, training and instructional design. Lampkin's technical savviness in adult learning pairs well with her natural ability to infuse SCF values in all aspects of her work.

Nuee LampkinLearning/Development Specialist

Development Center



Traditional Knowledge Promoted by Alaskan Plants as Food SymposiumAlaska Native Tribal Health Consortium

The Annual Alaskan Plants as Food and Medicine (APFM) Symposium organized through the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) Wellness and Prevention Department was held at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, September 11-13.

The 5th Annual APFM symposium promoted indigenous knowledge in combination with hands-on activities that encouraged a holistic approach to wellness. This year’s symposium provided opportunities to share traditional knowledge and promote healthy lifestyles.

The goal of APFM is to promote traditional plant knowledge and ethical harvesting. As the reliance upon imported foods has increased over recent generations and as educational dynamics have shifted, a gap in the knowledge, skills, and practice related to Alaskan plants as food and medicine has widened.

ANTHC’s vision is that Alaska Native people are the healthiest people in the world, which is accomplished by providing the highest quality of health services in partnership with our people and the Alaska Tribal Health System.

For more information, visit the APFM website at

alaskanplants.com. Questions about the program

can be emailed to [email protected].

SCF Brings Elders Back to Their RootsAlyssa Sasser

PR Program Coordinator

In August, Southcentral Foundation Elder Program bussed Elders to Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Farm in Palmer. Established in 1935, the farm has grown into Alaska’s largest U-Pick farm with 277 acres. At Pyrahs farm, Elders were able to pick produce for harvest.

Elders spent the unseasonably sunny and warm August day picking fruits and vegetables, including strawberries, rhubarb, cabbage, and cucumbers, on the field in Palmer, afterwards enjoying a sack lunch on the property.

“Harvesting food is important in Alaska Native culture, although many Elders don’t have the opportunity living in an urban setting,” said Samantha Englishoe, SCF Health Education

program coordinator. “It’s such a blessing to see the joy in our Elders’ faces when they take their produce home.”

Elders harvested and processed their produce in a variety of ways, including pickling, canning, blanching and making soup.

SCF Elder Program provides multiple opportunities to help bring the Elders together as a community. In addition to the U-Pick farm, Elders also picked berries at the Botanical Gardens. Both of these outings were valuable opportunities for SCF Elders to connect to their Alaska Native culture.

The Elder Program is located at 6901 East Tudor

Road, Suite 8, Anchorage Alaska 99507. For

more information, call (907)729-6500 or visit


The 5th Annual APFM symposium promotes indigenous knowledge.

Myrtle Van Dorn spends the August day gathering turnips for harvesting.

Elders head out on the fields to fill their sacks with fruits and vegetables.

Tractor at Pyrah's Pioneer Peak Farm tills field of potatoes in preparation for the end of season.

Southcentral Foundation Learning Circles

WEEKLY

Life Changes for WomenTuesdays, 10 - 11:30 a.m.Alaska Women’s Recovery Project4155 Tudor Centre Drive

Join us and meet with others who are experiencing similar life changes, develop new skills for managing symptoms of menopause and learn how to be healthier. For females only, ages 18 and older. Walk-ins welcome.______________________________________________

Power of Hope: Cancer SupportTuesdays, 5 - 6:30 p.m.Denali RoomMt. Marathon Building4201 Tudor Centre Drive

Join the learning circle that honors those who are currently being treated for cancer, recovering from cancer and caregivers or family members. This is a safe place for individuals to share their feelings, build relationships and learn from those who are facing similar situations. For ages 18 and older. Walk-ins welcome.______________________________________________

Wellness Matters NightThursdays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.Nuka Learning and Wellness Center 4085 Tudor Centre Drive

Bring your favorite dish for a healthy potluck meal at the start of each evening and then participate in a weekly learning circle. There are many exciting opportunities from Southcentral Foundation Family Wellness Warriors Initiative and SCF Behavioral Health. For more information, please contact (907) 729-5443. ______________________________________________

Grief and LossThursdays, 6 - 7:30 p.m.Nuka Learning and Wellness Center 4085 Tudor Centre Drive

This learning circle is for anyone who has experienced a loss such as divorce or a relationship ending, loss of health, selling the family home, a loved one’s serious illness, death in the family, death of a pet or loss of a friendship. Find a connection with others who have had similar experiences. For more information, please contact (907) 631-7427 or (907) 631-7426. ______________________________________________

Veteran's Learning Circle - NEWThursdays, 6 - 7:30 p.m.Juniper Room Nuka Learning and Wellness Center 4085 Tudor Centre Drive

The Veteran's Learning Circle utilizes a veteran designed curriculum to address matters individuals may face after combat or during military service and provides support. Walk-ins welcome.______________________________________________ Domestic Violence EducationFridays, 10 - 11:30 p.m.Nuka Learning and Wellness Center 4085 Tudor Centre Drive

Have you experienced domestic violence or know someone who has? Join the domestic violence education learning circle, a peer-supported group for men and women. This learning circle is for those who have been harmed and those who have harmed, to examine the way to interact with family members and how they experience you. Build relationships with others and stop the cycle of harm. This is for adults ages 18 and older. Walk-ins welcome.

These activities are free and are open to the community. Please visit the Learning Circle and Events Calendar

online at southcentralfoundation.localist.com for more information.



NATIVE CO

MM

UN

ITYPartnership Impacts Homeless Youth Services CITC's new facility increases capacity for city’s most vulnerable young peopleCook Inlet Tribal Council

Cook Inlet Tribal Council (CITC) and Covenant House Alaska (CHA) have joined forces to increase housing in Anchorage for transitional age youth who are at-risk or homeless. The partnership will expand CHA’s Rights of Passage transitional living program through CITC’s Dena'ina House, a newly renovated residential facility at 750 W. Fifth Avenue in Anchorage.

A special open-house event was held on Friday, Sept. 23, celebrating the partnership and the expansion, which will double the program’s current impact.

Through a $2.4 million renovation, the Dena’ina House offers supportive housing for young people seeking independent living through the Rights of Passage program

serving homeless youth ages 18-21. The model requires participants to work with a case manager to craft a “success plan” and participants are required to hold jobs, pay rent, save money, learn to budget and develop other life skills needed for living independently.

Covenant House Alaska provides refuge, services and support to homeless youth. During the past three years, the organization has seen an uptick of 58 percent in its average daily census. Covenant House has also experienced an increase in the number of homeless teens migrating from rural Alaska, nearly all being Alaska Native.

With a mission to equip Alaska Native people, especially youth, with the tools needed to reach their potential and self-determination, CITC recognized an opportunity to partner with Covenant House and expand the successful

Rights of Passage program, where half of the program’s young people are Alaska Native. “We didn’t need to reinvent the wheel to support our homeless youth,” explained CITC President and CEO Gloria O’Neill. “We knew by joining forces with Covenant House, we could use CITC staff and expertise to bring the strength of Alaska Native values and culture to help create a larger and more sustainable program.”

The Rights of Passage program has proven success—80 percent of its graduates achieve employment and stable housing. The program has been at full capacity since it started.

“Through our partnership with CITC, we’re here to end homelessness for every young person who walks through our doors,” said Alison Kear, Executive Director of CHA. “Our residents get jobs, they get diplomas and then they get to give back to the community as independent and productive young adults.”

A 10-year operating agreement between the organizations has increased the program’s capacity from 14 to 32 beds at two residences. The program will also benefit from close cooperation with CITC’s existing Youth Education and Employment Services, which will provide additional support and culturally consistent services for Alaska Native youth in the program.

CITC is a tribal non-profit organization offering opportunities to Alaska Native and American Indian people residing in the Cook Inlet region. CITC is an innovative leader in the social services arena, helping program participants pursue opportunities to develop their personal potential and self-reliance.

Covenant House Alaska is the state’s largest shelter for homeless, abused and neglected youth. It provides a safe refuge, warm meals, and medical, counseling, education and employment services. Since 1988, CHA has served over 20,000 homeless youth in Alaska with absolute respect and unconditional love.CITC’s Dena'ina House, a newly renovated residential facility located at 750 W. Fifth Avenue in Anchorage.

Men’s Wearhouse Drive Benefits Chanlyut Program

Cook Inlet Tribal Council

More than 300 suits were donated in Anchorage this year to the Men’s Wearhouse National Suit Drive to benefit Cook Inlet Tribal Council’s (CITC) Chanlyut program, where men use the suits to transform their lives.

Each July, Men’s Wearhouse partners with more than 150 non-profit organizations to collect and distribute professional clothing. During the past six years, Men’s Wearhouse has collected over 650,000 donations. To recognize each donor’s generosity, the store offers 50 percent off donors’ next purchase for every suit received.

The donations can be transformative for more than men’s appearances. When Kevin Carlson, a participant of CITC’s Chanlyut program, showed up for his first day in court wearing the suit he received through the suit drive, the judge looked him up and down, then asked, “Is Mr. Carlson here yet?”

“He thought I was my own attorney!” Carlson exclaims.

It wasn’t just the suit contributing to the judge’s perspective — it was the attitude that came with the suit.

“Wearing a nice suit gives the men confidence in themselves and makes them feel important,” said Bill Tsurnos, program director for CITC’s Chanlyut program. “They look in the mirror and they don’t just see themselves; they see what they can become.”

Chanlyut helps men develop the life skills they need and prepares them for work as they begin a new life after facing the challenges of addiction, homelessness, and/or reentering society after incarceration.

For many Chanlyut participants, the suit they receive through this effort represents the first suit they have ever worn. As Kevin Carlson appears in court to gain the right to see his two daughters, he feels his suit helps him command respect.

“The judge looks at me and sees someone who’s serious about what he’s doing,” he explains. “My suit demonstrates that I’m here for business. When I put on this suit, I feel like I am unstoppable.”

Kevin Carlson, a participant of CITC’s Chanlyut program, received the first suit he’s ever worn through the Men’s Wearhouse National Suit Drive.



Important Phone Numbers

Alaska Native Medical Center (907) 563-2662

American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) (907) 272-1444

Anchorage Police Department (non-emergency) (907) 786-8500

Anchor Rides (907) 343-2550

Cook Inlet Housing Authority (907) 793-3000

Division of Public Assistance (907) 269-6599

Food Bank of Alaska (907) 272-3663

People Mover (907) 343-4536

Salvation Army Meals on Wheels (907) 349-0613

Senior Benefits (907) 352-4150

Southcentral Foundation (907) 729-4955

SCF Elder Program Event Hotline (907) 729-6588

Game Day

Movie Day

FRIDAYHealth Education on

Nutrition and Wellness

THURSDAYCultures and Traditions

TUESDAYBingo

WEDNESDAYShopping

12:30 - 2 p.m.

Value Village Northway Mall

Fred Meyer Sears MallWalmart

Please call (907) 729-6500

for transportation.Space is limited.

12:30 - 2 p.m.

Please call the SCF Health Education

at (907) 729-2689 for more information.

9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 12:15 - 2 p.m. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.(1st, 2nd and 3rd

Friday of each month)

Elder directed, with a variety of games offered.

12:30 p.m.(4th Friday of each month)

Popcorn and juice are provided.

MONDAY

SCF Elder Program | 6901 East Tudor Road, Anchorage, Alaska 99507 | (907) 729-6500

ELD

ER D

RUM

Promoting

independent

living through

fostering an

environment of quality,

dignity and

pride.

Elders Harvest Berries at Alaska Botanical GardenSCF Public Relations

In early August, the Alaska Botanical Garden welcomed Elders from Southcentral Foundation's Elder Program to participate in a pilot program that allowed them to harvest a portion of berries from select areas of the garden.

Alaska Botanical Garden Executive Director Robin Dublin found an answer to her concerns of wasted berries and missed opportunities at the end of each growing season. Tucked away in the corner of the Chugach Square Mall, she stumbled upon SCF’s Elder Program. Dublin realized that Elders may benefit from having easy access to the berries that are carefully preened and maintained for visitors to view and adore over the summer.

“At the end of the season, the berries just fall to the ground and are not utilized. What a waste,” Dublin said. “I figured that if we work with our neighbors to harvest the berries, we could prevent waste while building relationships and can share historical knowledge about local plants and uses.”

Dublin also realized the potential for Elders to recognize and identify additional plants in the surrounding areas outside of the displayed plants in the garden. Chris Klabunde, manager of the Elder Program, eagerly agreed to help Dublin pilot the berry harvest program.

“We have some Elders that have challenges with mobility,” Klabunde said. "Being able to pick berries on groomed trails and level ground.”

This fall, SCF's Elder Program was allotted two days of berry picking from plants that were identified as ripe and full of berries. Each day started with a short orientation from Alaska Botanical Garden’s Horticulturist, Will Criner, informing the mixed group of Elders and Elder providers of the areas to pick from and a fair warning about the

large bee and hornet population that reside in the garden. Berry buckets were donated from SCF's Family Wellness Warriors Initiative to help the Elders contain their bounty.

Red currant, black currant and service berries were collected along the trails tucked away in the garden. One of the Elders noticed that the apples were ripe and was allowed to pick a bucket full. With the apples she collected, she made apple pies for her grandchildren. Providers got in on the fun as well, assisting

Elders with collecting berries and providing water and snacks during and after the harvest.

The experience reminded Elders of the time that they spent as a child collecting berries and preserving them for use throughout the winter. Some Alaskan cultures celebrate the first bucket of berries a child picks, as it was their contribution to sustaining their people. Others reminisced about the food their Elders used to make with the berries.

“My grandmother used to make a preserve with the berries the grandchildren collected and she used it as a spread in between the sheets of cake that she used to make,” said Helen McNeil, as she plucked the red currants from the bush. “Mmm, she made the best cake.”

When leaving the garden, McNeil mentioned that she would not have been able to collect berries this year had she not been able to participate in the pilot program. These days, she has difficulty maneuvering the steep hills and rough trails where the good berries are found. She and the other Elders who picked berries were all smiles and hope the partnership with the Alaska Botanical Garden continues for years to come.

SCF's Elder Program is located

at 6901 East Tudor Road, Suite 8,

Anchorage Alaska 99507. For more

information, call (907)729-6500.

As part of a pilot program, Elder Lisa Dolchok harvests berries at the Alaska Botanical Garden.

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