Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

Community Health Representative Program

"Empowering Our Community Through Health Services"

At the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, our Community Health Representative (CHR) program is dedicated to promoting healthy living and restoring traditional dietary practices in our community. Our mission is to provide education, resources, and support to enhance the overall well-being of our members while preserving the confidentiality and dignity of each individual we serve.

OUR VISION

• Quality Health Services: The CHR program is committed to delivering quality health and prevention outreach services to our Tribal Membership.

• Advocacy and Representation: We act as advocates for our members, representing the Grand Traverse Band as ambassadors in surrounding communities and events. 

• Community Engagement: Our program encourages active participation in cultural activities that celebrate our heritage and improve health outcomes. 

• Education and Resources: We provide essential information about traditional dietary patterns, including the benefits of foods like wild rice and other indigenous staples. 

OUR GOALS

• Improve health and human service care management for patients and communities

• Improve the prevention and management of health conditions

• Monitor program processes and outcomes at the CHR, patient, community, health, and social system levels

KEY INITIATIVES

• Liaison Role: CHRs maintain close, regular contact with our membership, serving as liaisons within the tribal structure and the wider community. 

• Collaborative Activities: We coordinate with various departments, including the Elders Department and Youth Programs, to facilitate engagement in health-focused events such as diabetic foot clinics, annual health fairs, flu clinics, and transportation assistance for medical appointments. 

• Food Education: Resources and information on preparing traditional foods emphasizing their nutritional value and cultural importance. 

GET INVOLVED! 

Join us in our mission to live a healthy life the traditional way. 

 For more information or to participate in our programs, contact your local CHR. 

 CHR Brochure Click Here

MEET YOUR COMMUNITY HEALTH REPRESENTITIVES

"As a CHR, I enjoy being an advocate. I enjoy working with
the elders that need a hand. I have been a CHR for five years. 
It's been a blessing to serve the citizens of the GTB, as did
my mother, Theresa Shananaquet ba".
                                                                    ~Ranee

"It’s a rewarding experience working as a CHR and becoming involved with
 providing care, health services, and education to our patients and families. 
The needs are great and I enjoy being that person they can call on to help and 
support them. I find that connection amazing! Personally, I have many interests, 
which include gardening, sewing, making leather items, and beading, 
just to name a few.  I also enjoy participating with others when we sew 
our beautiful ribbon shirts and skirts".
                                                                           ~Virginia

"I am passionate about working with our elders, 
as I find immense joy in hearing their stories about their 
youth. Learning about how different life was when they 
were growing up, not only enriches my understanding of our 
culture but also deepens my connection to our community. Their 
experiences and wisdom inspire me daily, reminding me of the 
importance of preserving our traditions and values".
                                  
                                                             ~Amanda

IHS OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH POLICY

At the CHR Department, the safety and well-being of our employees are the utmost importance. In alignment with IHS Policy 1-9.3, we uphold the following principles:

Authority to Intervene:

In cases where a life-threatening condition or imminent hazard arises, the Safety Officer (SO), Supervisor, or designated representative has the authority to immediately halt any activity. This action is taken to ensure that the hazard is addressed and abated, prioritizing the safety of all personnel. 

No Risk to Life:

We believe that no employee should ever feel obligated to risk their life while preforming their job duties. Safety is our priority, and we encourage everyone to report unsafe conditions without fear of reprisal. 

Your safety is our commitment. Together, we can maintain a safe and healthy work environment. 

Please click on the link to read more on the IHS Policy 1-9.3Occupational Safety and Hazard Policy