“We pride ourselves on whole family health for physical, spiritual, mental and emotional health.”
Using traditional Native American therapists, David said this sets NACA apart from any other healthcare options in town. “We offer indigenous empowerment for healthy lifestyles,” he said. “This includes classes for diabetes and obesity.”
David said the best part of his job is helping people with socioeconomic disparities. “We offer top-notch services to Native Americans and non-Native Americans to help people with trauma,” he said.
David is a licensed trauma therapist and holds a special place in his heart for those who face trauma. He says it’s important to remember NACA’s mission: “To provide preventative wellness strategies, empower and advocate for Native peoples and others, so we can create a healthy community based on having respect for indigenous values.”
NACA has operating for 53 years and has experienced extreme growth during that time. The nonprofit organization serves about 3,000 clients per month with 51% Native American, many from the Navajo and Hopi reservations. Last year, NACA served clients from 26 tribes. However, the organization is open to anyone who for medical services.
The organization’s health care programs include primary, preventative and acute care, as well as services such as immunizations, diabetes management, nutrition therapy and chronic disease management. NACA also provides mental health sessions, substance abuse counseling, suicide prevention programs, and unique offerings like pow wow sweat lodges.
With 56 employees, plus volunteers and interns, NACA partners with local schools and community organizations. David said NACA plans to expand into a larger building within the next five years, which would enable the addition of a sweat lodge and Kiva, and offer dental, vision and physical therapy services.
Aside from health care, NACA manages the Native American jewelry sales program at the Sedona overlook on Highway 89.
NACA also offers a family indigenous enrichment program that promotes healthy lifestyles. This includes financial management support and basic needs for unsheltered Native Americans.
David credits NACA’s success to its rich history, rooted in serving Native communities. Initially funded by the Indian Health Service, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the organization has continually expanded its outreach programs.
NACA is the only Urban Indian Organization in Northern Arizona and only one of 42 in the U.S.
Born and raised in Ganado, David attended Dixie College in St. George, Utah, before going on to earn a bachelor’s degree in sociology and criminal justice from Southern Utah State University. He also has master’s degree in clinical mental health with a specialty in trauma from the University of Phoenix. Previously, he worked as a traditional Native American counselor for the Paiute Tribe. FBN
By Stan Bindell, FBN
Photo by Don Decker: CEO Christopher David says NACA offers “indigenous empowerment for healthy lifestyles,” including education about diabetes, obesity and trauma.
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