Choctaw Nation Victim Services | Award for Professional Innovation in Victim Services
Hugo, Oklahoma
Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma developed an innovative professional partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS), Adult Protective Services (APS) to address elder abuse in Indian Country by expanding the outreach of both organizations to provide comprehensive services to those in need.
By creating a partnership with the Oklahoma DHS APS, Choctaw Nation effectively alleviated many challenges related to Oklahoma’s checkerboard Indian Country jurisdiction. With fewer individuals slipping through the cracks and receiving services in a manner that is true to their culture and needs, Choctaw Nation is providing victim-centered and culturally appropriate services.
Collaboration with the State of Oklahoma’s DHS APS has furthered efforts on behalf of American Indian/Alaska Native victims and has set a positive example for other tribes.