TCC Weekly Episode 44V2

Welcome to TCC Weekly, where each week we bring you the latest news from Tanana Chiefs Conference. Welcome to TCC Weekly. I'm Janessa Sams, Behavioral Health Director for Tanana Chiefs Conference. Thank you for joining us as we share important updates, opportunities, and ways to stay connected across our region. Last week, as part of the annual Public Safety Summit, TCC Public Safety and Family Services hosted a tribal court clerk and judge training.

Participants learned the fundamentals of tribal court operations, strengthening skills to support justice in their communities. Special guests Hilda Johnson and Tonya Garnett shared their expertise and lived experience, offering meaningful insight into the role of tribal courts and the importance of culturally grounded justice systems. This training created an important space for learning, connection, and building tribal capacity and court leadership. Based on that gathering, tribal leaders, public safety professionals, and partners also came together in Fairbanks for the 2026 Alaska Tribal Public Safety Summit at Wedgewood Resort. Over 2 days, the summit focused on strengthening public safety through tribal leadership, cultural values, and collaboration.

Sessions highlighted how tribal sovereignty and tradition guide justice systems while also addressing the unique challenges of safety in rural Alaska. Participants discussed improving coordination between tribal, state, and federal partners, strengthening responses to missing and murdered Indigenous persons cases, and expanding culturally appropriate victim support. Breakout sessions also covered tribal diversion programs, drug trafficking in rural communities, and tools such as protective orders and special tribal criminal jurisdiction. The summit concluded with a collaborative session focused on turning discussion into action, with participants identifying practical steps to build safer, stronger communities across the region. Also last week, TCC's Tribal Social Services Program hosted the Child Abuse Prevention Resource Fair at Chief David Salmon Tribal Hall.

Families, elders, leaders, and community members came together to learn about resources that support children, caregivers, and families. Indian tacos were also served, helping to create a welcoming and family-centered atmosphere. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended and helped make this evening a success. The 2026 TCC Youth Summit is also coming up this summer. Interior youth between the ages of 12 to 24 are invited to join us for this 3-day camping event to help us determine goals, build leadership, and practice our traditions.

Visit our Facebook page to learn more about this event. Travel costs are covered by TCC and the application deadline is May 26th, 2026, so please apply today. Are you interested in becoming a foster parent? Our tribal communities are looking for caring, supportive families to provide safe, loving homes for our children in foster care. Anyone who is a tribal member can become a foster parent regardless of race, gender, marital status, or religion.

If you're ready to learn more and apply to become a foster parent, TCC's Tribal Family and Youth Services are here to help you every step of the way. Call Julie Dietrich. At 907-452-8251, extension 3096, to find out more. Did you know that TCC recommends well child checks from 2 days through 18 years of age? Well child exams are routine checkups that support a child's healthy growth and development from infancy through adolescence.

These visits focus on physical health, developmental milestones, emotional well-being, and preventative care. Well child exams can help identify potential concerns early, provide recommended screenings and immunizations, and give families guidance and peace of mind. Regular well child exams help build a strong relationship between families and healthcare providers, and TCC is dedicated to ensuring care is consistent and responsive as your child grows. Make your next well child exam appointment by calling Central Scheduling at 907-451-6682. Finally, an important reminder about spring flooding.

With record snowfall and significant ice buildup this year, now is the time to begin preparing for spring breakup season. While we all hope flooding does not occur, early preparation can make a meaningful difference in protecting your home, your family, and your community. Please visit our website for more information about how you can prepare for a potential flood. That's it for this week's updates. And again, I'm Janessa Sams, and this has been the TCC Weekly.

Tune in every Monday morning at 9:30 on KRFF 89.1 FM, or listen anytime on Spotify and YouTube. Maasit sho.