Indigenous Children & Families

We believe that our work is more likely to benefit Indigenous children and families when it centers the values and perspectives of Indigenous Peoples. We incorporate Indigenous methodologies and principles that are important for work with Indigenous Peoples, including participatory and asset-based approaches that prioritize community knowledge and data sovereignty; respect Indigenous self-determination; engage in free, prior, and informed consent with Indigenous communities and research participants; and build capacity and co-produce knowledge in partnership with Indigenous communities and researchers. We value opportunities to work on community-identified priorities, partner with communities in all phases of research and evaluation, and elevate Indigenous strengths and concerns in large-scale, nationally focused efforts. Research and evaluation are important processes for understanding the factors that shape well-being and for supporting informed policy, program, and service decisions among Indigenous leaders and others who serve Indigenous children and families.  

Our staff publish widely read studies, toolkits, and other resources, and our work has been featured in numerous academic journals. We assist national and local media in coverage of stories related to Indigenous children and families. Our experts have given keynote lectures and presented in webinars and conferences for government offices, nonprofits, and Indigenous organizations, including the Administration for Children & Families, National Indian Child Welfare Association, Maternal Health Learning & Innovation Center, National Technical Assistance Center for The Education of Neglected or Delinquent Children & Youth, and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Additionally, we have provided expert testimony to the Alyce Spotted Bear and Walter Soboleff Commission on Native Children.