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Abstract

Objective. The purpose of this evaluation was to document the impact of the Good Road of Life (GRL) Training on Native men from four communities in the Western US. Design: A mixed-method evaluation design was used to document changes in participant responses (N=60) based on pre/post assessments and qualitative data provided. Results. Findings from the quantitative analysis show statistically significant increases in overall mean pre and post knowledge scores for healthy relationships, help seeking behaviors, self-esteem, confidence, and communication skills. Qualitative themes demonstrate the positive impact GRL has on American Indian fathers. Themes related to impacts include asking for help, developing healthy coping strategies, and helping others who may be suicidal. Conclusions. By investing in programs like GRL, funding agencies, prevention and intervention programs, and communities are investing in their futures. Children and communities benefit when fathers are actively involved in their children’s lives.

Key Take Away Points

Children and communities benefit when fathers are actively involved in their children’s lives.

Culture-based training like the Good Road of Life supports American Indian fathers in their roles as partners, leaders, and warriors in their communities.

Evaluation of the Good Road of Life training demonstrates that it has a positive impact on American Indian fathers by increasing their help-seeking skills, developing healthy coping strategies, and helping others that may be suicidal.

Author Biography

Dr. Allyson Kelley Dr. Allyson Kelley is a senior community health scientist and the founder of Allyson Kelley & Associates PLLC. Allyson supports research and evaluation efforts for several tribal public health initiatives in the Rocky Mountain region. Allyson has worked with tribes as a research partner, expert public health consultant, lead evaluator, methodologist, epidemiologist, writer, and educator. Clayton Small, Ph.D., CEO Tribal Affiliation: Northern Cheyenne He has experience as a school and university administrator, as well as, Director of two non-profit organizations and Indian Health Services administration. He has developed training programs for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Health Services, Department of Justice, and SAMHSA. He serves as Lead Trainer and his programs offer leadership and hope for Native people. Maha Charani Small, Ph.D., Vice-President Tribal Affiliation: Lebanese American She has experience in education, counseling, and curriculum development. She supervises the curriculum development and implementation of programs. She is a founding member of the Native P.R.I.D.E. organization.

Acknowledgements

We appreciate the support from tribal communities and all of the Native families that participate.

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