Native American Outreach Services (NAOS)

A number of services are available through our Native American Outreach Services (NAOS)  program to assist Native American children and families. We have staff in 13 counties that serve as a liaison between state and federal programs, the Indian community, Tribes and tribal organizations.

Services include but are not limited to:

• Providing culturally competent client information & referral services.
• Assisting clients with Indian ancestry applications.
• Assisting clients with navigating MDHHS services.
• Helping tribal families attain transportation services.
• Advocating for tribal families in court, medical, employment, and educational settings.
• Assessing and enhancing parenting skills.
• Assisting tribes, MDHHS staff and Placement Agency Foster Care with Indian child welfare case consults.

You must be of Native American descent to qualify for these services. If you are unsure of your tribal affiliation or degree of Indian heritage, an outreach worker can assist you with making this determination.

Getting Started

For eligibility and to request assistance, contact an NAOS employee near you. Native Americans do not need to be eligible for financial assistance in order to receive Native American Outreach Services.

Additional Help is Available

In addition to the assistance provided by our Native American Outreach Services program, you may be able to get help from the following organizations.

• American Indian Health & Family Services 
  Provides health care and support for those seeking and maintaining wellness.
• American Indian Services, Inc.
  Provides assistance with case management, school programs, counseling, food, utilities and other support.
• American Indian Urban Organizations 
  Provides support and services to Indian groups and individuals.
• Foster Care Navigator Program
  American Indian/Alaska Native persons/families interested in becoming licensed for foster care or adoption may contact Jackie Gant, Native American Outreach Specialist at 855-MICHKIDS to learn more.
• North American Indian Association of Detroit, Inc.
  Promotes self-sufficiency through education assistance, employment training and awareness of available human services; foster and preserve North American Indian culture and heritage.
• Michigan Indian Employment and Training Services, Inc.
  Assists Native American residents with employment services.
• Michigan Indian Legal Services 
  Provides civil legal services to low-income Indians and tribes to further self-sufficiency, overcome discrimination, assist tribal governments and preserve Indian families.
• Uniting Three Fires Against Violence
  Michigan's Native American Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalition: 906-253-9775