Native Health Initiative

Running Medicine is based on the understanding that running and exercise is a beautiful and potent medicine for mind, body, and spirit. Formed as a program of the Native Health Initiative (NHI), our vision is to create a culture of wellness through a supportive, loving community.Core Values of RM: Inclusive to all people, all fitness and ability levels; Provide high quality, individualized coaching to all participants at minimal cost; Loving community where everyone supports each other’s wellness; Intergenerational – youth, elders and everyone in between; Emphasize the elements of “fun” and “play” in all that we do together; Cultural, mental and spiritual aspects of running/walking will be emphasized; Sustainability – our goal is zero waste; and Outreach to local communities and efforts to create cultures of wellness

Providing academic scholarship awards to individuals who identify as Indigenous and pursuing a college degree in the health professions. Also providing grants that promote community-driven and youth-led service -learning and philanthropy

Focus on the Traditional Tobacco versus Commercial Tobacco Products perspective of Tobacco Prevention. Provide health education sessions for 4th-12th grade students. Also provide community health outreach information and resources on tobacco prevention.

Providing workshop and trainings for public health advocates, clinicians, health professions, and community members to identify and build on strengths and assets in individual, families, communities, and organizations to improve health.

Providing individuals from all ethnic backgrounds and academic backgrounds an opportunity to volunteer within the Native Health Initiative organization, as well as within the Indigenous communities. This includes Fall/Spring Internships, Summer Health Justice Internship (5-week of volunteering primarily in New Mexico), a 3-day Indigenous Health Leadership Institute.
Indigenous Health Leadership Institute