Outreach and Prevention

KANA Prevention provides a variety of different trainings and can give presentations on many topics on request. Funded primarily through Federal grant programs, these trainings are usually available to anyone in the Kodiak region and have zero cost for participants.

Trainings include:

Adult Mental Health First Aid (AMHFA)

Adult MHFA teaches individuals how to recognize and effectively respond to warning signs that a coworker, friend, family member, or other adult in your life may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge. This course is approximately 8 hours long and can be taught in several formats including completely in-person over one or two days, completely over Zoom, or in a hybrid format that combines a few hours of online pre-learning and a shorter in-person segment.
Minimum class size is five.

Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA)

primarily for adults who interact with children, teens, or young adults on a regular basis, the Youth model of Mental Health First Aid helps to tell the difference between “normal teenage” behavior and when a young person is struggling, how to respond in a supportive and compassionate way, and how to connect that young person with resources to help. This course is approximately 7 hours long and can be taught in several formats including completely in-person over one or two days, completely over Zoom, or in a hybrid format that combines a few hours of online pre-learning and a shorter in-person segment.
Minimum class size is five.

Question. Persuade. Refer. (QPR)

QPR is a program specific to addressing the topic of suicide and is available for anyone. Learn the risk factors and “red flags” associated with suicidal thoughts and how to respond. By asking about suicidal intent (Question), working with people to understand the importance of getting help (Persuade), and knowing where and how to connect people with resources (Refer), anyone can help save a life. QPR is a 60-90 minute class.
Minimum class size is three.

General Presentations

KANA Prevention staff are also able to provide presentations on a wide array of topics related to well-being. This may include presentations on specific substances/drugs, suicide, anxiety, depression, self-care, building resiliency, and more.

In addition to its educational components, KANA Prevention also hosts a wide array of activities throughout the year in collaboration with many community partners. Examples of these include:

Walk of Hope: Out of Darkness

The annual Walk of Hope takes place each year in September. On this important day, we come together to honor the lives lost to suicide, foster hope, and strengthen community connections. It’s also an opportunity to learn about recognizing warning signs and discover local resources and support for those who may be struggling. Before the walk, take part in crafts and activities designed to spark meaningful conversations about this important topic. Together, we send a message to all in our community: you matter.

Explore the Rock

A summer hiking/nature walk program for school-aged students on the Kodiak Road System July through August. Explore the Rock is a free, outdoor adventure program for Kodiak youth entering grades 3–12 in the new school year. Join us this summer to hike, learn, and connect with nature, all while building confidence, friendships, and outdoor skills. This program welcomes all ability levels. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned explorer, there’s a trail for you as we discover the beauty of the Emerald Isle together!

Cultural Workshops

KANA Prevention recognizes that cultural identity is a major protective factor for individuals who are facing challenges. To support this, our staff work with numerous community partners throughout the Kodiak region to support a wide array of cultural workshops for youth, adults, Elders, and families. Examples include skin sewing, beading, petroglyph carving, harvesting/gathering and food preservation, and more.

Kodiak Native Youth Council (KNYC)

KANA Prevention, in collaboration with KANA Workforce Development, have come together to establish the KNYC for students in middle and high school. While participating in the KNYC, students have opportunities to form their own bylaws, elect officers, and plan/organize/host events and activities with support from adult staff members.