Capacity building in Injury Prevention in a rural Navajo community

Disabling injuries and injury-related fatalities are among the leading public health issues faced by American Indian/Alaskan Natives communities. They are especially tragic in isolated rural communities, where a lack of medical and rehabilitation resources magnifies the impact of injuries, and close networks of families and neighbors share the suffering of individuals. The Hardrock Chapter community is one such rural community. The community of Hardrock is a story of how a tribal community became empowered to make changes despite the overwhelming challenges of historical trauma, political land disputes, and lack of resources. Hardrock successfully secured funding that led to development of an injury prevention program. Factors that attributed to this success included: 1) support and involvement of local leaders; 2) community endorsement of program activities; 3) a community vision; 4) sustained funding; and 5) long-term collaborations with Federal agencies, an academic institution, and non-profit organizations. These elements will continue to play a major role in Hardrock's future endeavors to achieve overall community safety and wellness.