Health & Wellness
The Qawalangin Tribe’s Health & Wellness Department is honored to support programs that uplift physical, mental, and cultural well-being. We believe in access—to care, to nourishing food, to movement, and to one another. Guided by respect, culture, and connection, our mission is to promote holistic health and strengthen our community.
Movement
We believe that movement is medicine. Through community events and the Wellness and Beyond Walking Program, we create fun and accessible opportunities to move together. We support access to physical activity by offering free PCR and Aquatic Center passes to American Indian and Alaska Native community members and Tribe staff. In partnership with the Special Projects Department, we are also installing signage that enhances wellness access and encourages movement throughout our community.
Movement isn't just exercise, it's medicine.
Chronic Disease Prevention
We are working to support prevention and early intervention through education, access, and partnership. Our efforts include educating the community about diabetes and heart health, collaborating with local clinics to expand access to screenings and referrals, and organizing outreach events that connect people to care. We are also improving access to lifestyle change programs by partnering with the State of Alaska to promote free health coaching through alaska360.org. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements on how to enroll in lifestyle coaching programs.
Screening, referral, and treatment can reduce the prevalence of chronic disease.
Food
We support food access and food sovereignty through programs that honor culture, knowledge, and community care. We host Berry Picking for Elders, partner with the University of Alaska to offer classes on growing, cooking, and safely preserving foods, and support the Tribe’s foodbank. In collaboration with the Special Projects Department, we are conducting a Tribal Food Sovereignty Feasibility Study. This multi-departmental effort reflects a shared commitment to ensuring every tribal member has access to healthy, culturally appropriate, and sustainable food. The study represents the first step toward a long-term action plan, with a vision of building local capacity—including AmeriCorps support—to activate food programs that nourish both body and spirit.
Access to nutritious foods improves overall health.
Mental Health Support
The Health & Wellness Department, in partnership with the Special Projects Department, is developing a new mental health program in collaboration with a licensed mental health provider. Our vision is to make free, confidential therapy available to tribal members and the broader community. Once services are launched, our team will support you through enrollment, help match you with care, and ensure a smooth, respectful experience.
If you or someone you know needs immediate emotional support before these therapy services are available, the following confidential resources are available 24/7:
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SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) — free, confidential support
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Alaska Careline: 1-877-266-4357 — a mental health crisis line serving Alaska communities
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988 Lifeline: Dial 988 - suicide and crisis lifeline
Stay tuned for announcements on how to enroll in free therapy services through the Tribe. Secure, private, and culturally respectful support is on the way.
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