This project uncovers an, until then, overlooked and unknown Native American community in the Heartland region. Through this collaborative effort with state and local Native American community organizations and cancer services we expect to increase awareness of the many needs and barriers of this community to access no-cost cancer services already available to other minorities. We will match funds with one state-funded program, for a full-time Native American Cancer outreach educator, who will also serve as case manager. 

Education will be deliver in a culturally and competent way, identifying, addressing barriers and helping Native Americans to access no-cost screening and treatment services. Medically hard to reach target audiences are underserved Native American women aged 18 and older, living in the metropolitan Kansas City; Lawrence; and Topeka, Kansas.  These last two towns are 38 and 62 miles south of Kansas City and not cover by Indian Health Services. Early active involvement in Native American communities and genuine respect for their health related decisions in planning and strategies will be encouraged and supported. Holding regular meetings, sharing information, and making decisions in consensus regarding future use of it will also be part of this initiative.