Messengers are Crow women who are connected to the tribe and community. They
know what the community needs, what it has to offer, and they share the
knowledge of available resources so that people feel supported. These women
are recognized as natural helpers. They are willing to give their time and
effort to make the tribe and community a better, safer, and healthier place to
be. They are women other women turn
to for advice; trusted people.
Qualifications:
1.
Established trust and respect with the Crow Indian people.
2.
Recognized by community members as a person others turn to for advice and
support.
3.
Possess personal characteristics and attributes that describe a natural
helper.
4.
Member of the community in which they serve, sharing a common culture
with those they serve.
5.
Ability to communicate effectively one-on-one and with small groups.
6.
Ability to speak the Crow language is an asset.
Responsibilities:
v
Provides
cervical health education, information and support to women on the Crow Indian
Reservation and in Hardin, Montana.
v
Maintains and
ensures confidentiality in order to protect the privacy, rights and well-being
of women.
v
Maintains
mutual trust relationships and respect for the Apsáalooke culture.
v
Attends
training sessions to gain knowledge about cervical health, cervical cancer risk
factors, Pap test screening, and health issues such as breast cancer, diabetes,
nutrition and exercise.
v
Conducts
one-on-one education on an ongoing basis making contact with women in public and
private places such as homes, churches, and grocery stores.
v
Assists the
Project Coordinator in planning, coordinating and conducting educational health
booths, workshops and high school presentations.
v
Provides
education through the use of materials that are culturally and educationally
appropriate.
v
Increases the
behaviors, knowledge and attitudes of women toward cervical health screening.
v
Influences and
advocates prevention and control of cervical cancer.
v
Encourages
women to seek appropriate health services.
v
Promotes
positive reinforcement to women who engage in cancer screening.
v
Integrates the
Crow communication patterns during outreach activities.
v
Documents
contacts and educational outreach information 4 times per year at times
designated by the project staff.
v
Portrays a
manner that reveals understanding and accurate interpretation of others’
concerns, motives and feelings.
v
Maintains
stable performance and behavior when faced with opposition.
v Demonstrates a strong positive image of self and her own skills,
capabilities and judgment.
Front row: Mandy Moccasin, Linda Birdinground
Middle row: Violet Enich, Dorcella Little Light, Dorothy Gaines, Rosella Stewart, Connie Bull Shows, LaDonna Laverdure
Back row: Rebecca White, Kristy Underwood, Phalene White, Marlene Bird, Anita Bull Chief, Elretta Parker, Audrey Black Eagle, Maria Matt Old Bull, Rose Iron, Ernestine Deputy, Virginia Real Bird, Darreldlene Old Crow, Roberta Walks, Sarah F. Armajo
Not pictured: Lois Rides Horse, Maudine Stewart, Alvina Morning
Note: Due to a busy schedule, Darreldlene Old Crow is not able to be a Messenger at this time.
Messengers' Home Project Description Introduction
Community Meetings Project Goals Messengers for Health Timeline
Who are the Messengers Messengers' Training Workshop