health equity
Our work aims to address inequities in the health of Portland’s Native community and supplement the public health services available.

Welcome to NAYA’s Health Equity program!
Our work aims to address inequities in the health of Portland’s Native community and supplement the public health services available.
- Family wellness programming
- Health policy advocacy
- Networking and resource sharing
- Mental health groups, talking circles, and traditional wellness opportunities
- Referrals to partner organizations
Free Car Seat Safety Checks for Families
This program offers free car seat inspections and parent education on proper car seat use, vehicle safety, and state laws and regulations. Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians provide these checks by appointment or at scheduled community events. During the inspection, they make sure the car seat:
- Is properly installed in the vehicle.
- Fits the child correctly
- Is in good condition.
Common installation errors include loose seat belts, incorrectly placed shoulder straps, and using the wrong belt path.Staff at the Native American Youth and Family Center are certified in child passenger safety, with training specific to Oregon and Washington state laws. Car seats are available at no cost for Indigenous families who have recalled, expired, or improperly sized seats. To schedule a free car seat safety check, call (971) 288-7783.
NAYA is a Proud Member of the Future Generations Collaborative
NAYA is among the many local organizations that make up the Future Generations Collaborative (FGC). The FGC is a laterally run group that operates within Multnomah County. FGC focuses on four modes (engagement, education, policy, and evaluation) to help create tangible change in our local Indigenous communities. Partner organizations bring different skills and experience to the collaborative to further the shared goal of bettering our community.
Please check our Events Calendar to stay up-to-date on our current programming.
Gina Mengwasser
Health Equity Program Manager
Alicia Evan
Health Educator
503.288.8177 ext. 356
Victor Wilson
Ben Sanford
THe programs

Commercial Tobacco Prevention
Commercial tobacco prevention provides support to community members who want to change their relationship with commercial tobacco products such as cigarettes, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) -aka- vapes, and smokeless tobacco.

Community garden
NAYA’s Community Garden (Wapas Nah Nee Shaku) is part of a vision to reclaim our land, and to create a space where Native American traditions and practices are honored and celebrated.

Free Car Seat Safety Checks for Families
This program offers free car seat inspections and parent education on proper car seat use, vehicle safety, and state laws and regulations.
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We honor those who contribute to NAYA's service to the Native American community.
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