StrongHearts Native Helpline is the recipient of a 2020 National Indian Health Board’s (NIHB) “Heroes in Health National Impact Award.” The award recognizes national leadership efforts by Native nations, tribal and non-profit organizations, and individuals to improve the health of American Indians and Alaska Natives through extraordinary contributions in tribal health advocacy, public health, health care policy, and direct health care delivery.
“This year’s Heroes in Health Award recipients are an exceptional group that, in the face of a global pandemic that has entered their homes and communities, have risen to a level of service that is far beyond outstanding,” said National Indian Health Board CEO Stacy A. Bohlen.
StrongHearts staff accepted the award on Wednesday, October 14, during NIHB’s Outstanding Service Awards and Heroes in Health Gala at the organization’s annual conference, which was held virtually this year.
“StrongHearts is so proud to receive this prestigious award, which acknowledges the important role our organization has in addressing the domestic violence crisis in tribal communities and striving to keep our relatives safe, particularly this year during the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Director Lori Jump (Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians). “2020 has been an extremely challenging year for Indian Country, and our staff and advocates have worked diligently to provide the highest possible level of culturally-specific peer support, domestic violence and healthy relationship education, safety planning, and help finding direct services in the victim-survivor’s area during this uncertain time.”
