Using Indigenous strengths to address public health crises
Official title: Indigenous Strengths as Solutions in a Public Health Crisis (Project ISH)
Funded at Northwest Indian College · NIH-10978126 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to find new ways to help Coast Salish communities tackle the problems of opioid and fentanyl overdoses by using local knowledge and strengths, so that people can get support that fits their culture and needs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwest Indian College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bellingham, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $625,542 |
| NIH project number | 1OT2DA061143-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978126 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals from Coast Salish communities who are affected by substance use or mental health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside of Coast Salish communities or those not experiencing substance use or mental health challenges may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop and implement innovative solutions to combat the opioid and fentanyl overdose crisis within Coast Salish communities. By enhancing research capacity and creating a data-driven 'Intertribal Healthy Data Dashboard', the project seeks to address substance use and mental health disparities. The approach focuses on leveraging Indigenous knowledge and community strengths to create interventions that promote holistic well-being and reduce risks associated with substance use. Patients may benefit from community-driven strategies that are culturally relevant and tailored to their needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective, culturally-informed interventions that significantly reduce substance use and improve mental health outcomes in Indigenous communities.
How similar studies have gone: Other research initiatives have shown promise in utilizing community strengths and culturally relevant approaches to address public health issues, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwest Indian College
Bellingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alexander, Charene — Northwest Indian College
- Study coordinator: Alexander, Charene
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.