Intergenerational Native American Wellbeing Program
Official title: Connecting Generations for Native American Wellbeing
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-11453585 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A small, early-phase project tests a culturally grounded health program for Elders and youth in Native American communities to improve connection and reduce despair-related health risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $389,606 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG098710-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11453585 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal participants are 18-year-old individuals and Elders within participating Coast Salish communities who want to engage in intergenerational, culturally grounded activities.
✕Less likely to help
Participants not interested in intergenerational activities or culturally grounded approaches may see limited benefit.
What this research studies
This project partners with Native communities in Washington to co-create a six-month health program that strengthens Elder–youth ties and cultural practices. It will measure how acceptable and feasible the program is and whether it shows promise in improving well-being and reducing loneliness, depression, and risky behaviors. The study uses community consultations, culturally informed activities, and both Elders and youth input to shape the intervention and its evaluation. It is centered on real people in tribal contexts, with a plan to adapt based on feedback from participants and partners.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could enhance intergenerational support and cultural connectedness, potentially reducing despair-related health issues.
How similar studies have gone: Previous efforts in indigenous communities show that culturally grounded, community-led programs can improve engagement and well-being, though this specific intergenerational model is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilbur, Rachel — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Wilbur, Rachel
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.