NIWRC’s Tribal Resource Directory: Bridging Barriers, Empowering Tribal Communities, and Supporting Survivors
The Tribal Resource Directory (TRD) is a vital tool developed by NIWRC to bridge the gap between Tribal communities and essential resources. Designed to support Native survivors of violence, the directory offers a centralized platform where survivors, service providers, advocates, and Tribal programs can find the organizations and services that best meet their needs. By consolidating these resources in one accessible location, NIWRC simplifies the process of connecting Tribal communities with life-saving support and services.
Originally developed to address the need for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and mobile testing units during the COVID-19 pandemic, the TRD has grown into a comprehensive resource tool. The tool is supported by the NIWRC COVID-19 ARP funding and provides locations, contact information, and websites for COVID-19 services. Beyond pandemic-related resources, the directory also includes broader services that align with NIWRC’s core mission of supporting Native survivors of violence. These additional resources are categorized by general support, victim rights advocacy (non-direct), safety planning, support groups/talking circles, counseling/mental health/emotional assistance, children/youth/family services, domestic violence response, sexual assault/rape crisis response, legal/justice system assistance, and traditional healing and referrals.
To ensure the directory includes reliable, relevant resources, NIWRC employed a multi-faceted approach. Resources were gathered through direct outreach to organizations, identifying relevant websites and keywords, and utilizing NIWRC’s databases of Tribal programs and organizations. This inclusive approach allowed us to feature organizations that may not have been directly engaged with NIWRC but offer valuable services to survivors. Each resource was carefully vetted for relevance as a Tribal resource and up-to-date contact, location, and website information.
The TRD is a vital part of NIWRC’s broader commitment to promoting the well-being of Tribal communities by supporting survivors and encouraging collaboration among organizations with shared values. By breaking down barriers and connecting survivors with service providers, it serves both as a practical tool and a symbol of solidarity. NIWRC hopes this tool will create safer and healthier environments for Native women, their families, and communities.
As we continue to strengthen this resource, we aim to empower Tribal communities, inspire resilience, and foster collaboration in the ongoing journey toward safety, justice, and healing. Together, we can build a future where every individual has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
