What Are the Engagement and Communication Tools?
The Engagement and Communication Tools provide leaders with guidance for identifying stakeholders and leading focused discussions for a variety of audiences. Choose from the series of informational documents on this web page to meet diverse audience needs.
Talking Points for Leadership to Engage Child Welfare Staff
The Talking Points can be used by leadership and supervisors to explain how promising strategies included in the Native American Enhancement (NAE) Toolkit can help counties achieve a reduction in disproportionality, disparities and administrative costs.
- View or download Talking Points for Leadership (PDF version)
PowerPoints
- Native American Enhancement Toolkit (for Managers and Supervisors)
This PowerPoint explains the purpose and goals of NAE Toolkit Implementation for an audience of child welfare managers and supervisors.
Videos
Focus Areas Targeted to Reduce Disproportionality and Disparities
This handout can be used to explain the central goals of enhancing practice. Outcomes of NAE Toolkit implementation are detailed in relation to federal measures, the California System Improvement Plan, compliance, county-level prevention and service disparities.
- View or download NAE Focus Areas (PDF version)
Urban vs. Rural Considerations
Distinguishing between the needs of urban and rural populations is a critical component of social work with Native American and Alaskan Native families. This document addresses general considerations for urban and rural/reservation communities and provides practical tips for culturally effective engagement.
- View or download NAE Urban vs. Rural Considerations (PDF version)
Tribal STAR Tips for Following Protocol when Working with Tribal Communities
The use of protocol when engaging with members of native communities demonstrates that one has taken the time to learn the value of culture, tradition and humility. These recommendations are not based on the culture of any single Tribe, but on the application of Tribal values to interactions with individuals and groups.
- View or download Tribal STAR Tips for Following Protocol when Working with Tribal Communities (PDF version)
Guidance and Discussion Tips for Using Native American Fact Sheets
Three fact sheets were developed for use with staff at all levels of the child welfare agency to enhance cultivation of engagement skills and culturally appropriate practice. View or download Guidance and Discussion Tips for Using NAE Fact Sheets (PDF version)
- Reasons Why People Do Not Claim to Be Native American - Social Work Practice Tips for Inquiry and Noticing
There are many reasons why individuals do not claim their Native American heritage. This document explains why.
Tribal Sovereignty and Child Welfare Act
Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)
- View or download Tribal Sovereignty and Child Welfare (PDF version)
Potential Stakeholders Checklist
The Stakeholders Checklist suggests potential collaborators at state, regional and local levels, with considerations for urban and rural locations and tips for the inclusion of youth advocates.
- View or download Potential Stakeholders Checklist (PDF version)
Letter Template for Engaging Stakeholders
This template is an aid for composing an introductory letter to invite the participation of Tribal representatives to agency-sponsored events or other program efforts.
- View or download Letter Template for Engaging Stakeholders (PDF version)