National Resource Center on Native American Aging (NRCNAA)
Heroes Project
DEADLINE EXTENDED! We are seeking nominations from Title VI directors and other program workers for individuals who have impacted the lives of elders in your community. The project seeks to honor individuals who have dedicated their time, talent, and energy to help our elders, to solve local problems, and to build stronger communities. Learn how to nominate your hero today!
The National Resource Center on Native American Aging serves the elderly Native American population of the United States. The Center is committed to increasing the awareness of issues affecting American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian elders and being a voice and advocate for their concerns. Through education, training, technical assistance, and research, the center assists in developing community-based solutions to improve the quality of life and delivery of related support services to this aging population.
Overview
Native American elders often share needs that are taken for granted by other elder populations. Services to address these needs remain unavailable, underdeveloped or inaccessible. The elderly native people comprise a rapidly growing population in the United States. Dramatic changes in the health care system need to occur in order to empower, enhance and preserve the vital resources embraced by the Native American elders.
Empowerment of Native American leaders and service providers is crucial to the elder’s health and well-being. The ability to provide high-quality services while maintaining the individual’s cultural values, stands to enhance the elder’s self-perception, worth and dignity.
History
The National Resource Center on Native American Aging was established in 1994 at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. As a result of a Cooperative Agreement with the Administration on Aging, within the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the resource center’s purpose is to work closely with local service providers throughout the nation to address the needs of American Indian, Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian elders.
