A Product of Disability Access: Empowering Tribal Members with Disabilities & Their Families
by Spirit Lake Consulting, Inc.
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES FOR ADULTS: The Spirit Lake Tribe Special Diabetes Project is aimed at preventing and educating Native Americans on the Spirit Lake Reservation about diabetes. The Diabetes Wellness and Education Center was established to encourage people to exercise in an effort to reduce the high rate of Diabetes among Native Americans. We have long known this was a major problem and credit goes to the Spirit Lake Tribe for trying to do something about diabetes before it starts. Services offered: Adults can use the exercise equipment (treadmills, elliptical machines, stair steppers, stationary bikes, and free weights) free of charge. There are fitness aids available to assist people with the exercise equipment or to answer any questions about fitness and exercise. The staff is also trained to test a person’s blood sugar level as well as taking their blood pressure. A file folder is then made for that person where the information is kept confidential. Robin Kleese, Fitness Specialist, is able to design a specialized work-out plan based on an individuals needs and/or health conditions. There are brochures and boards on the walls of the center with diabetes and fitness facts available to the public. The information stresses the importance of consistent exercise and a healthy diet which is crucial in preventing diabetes. The program also offers weight-training, circuit training, and step classes throughout the year. These classes also available free of charge to anyone that is interested. Children are allowed to utilize the equipment but only with adult supervision. How to get there: The center is located right in Fort Totten. Coming into Fort Totten, the first thing you pass is the Blue Building (Tribal Administration). Take the very next road on your left and the Diabetes Wellness and Education Center is the white building on your right, with the big ramp in front. It is easily accessible to wheelchair users, who are encouraged to come exercise, along with the rest of the community. If you work in the Blue Building, JOBS program, or vocational rehabilitation building, you can walk there in less than two minutes (three, if you are out of shape). When to go: The Diabetes Wellness and Education Center is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 7 am to 6 pm. Since programs are individualized, you can go any time. Class schedules are subject to change, so, if you are interested in a particular class, contact Robin or pick up the latest schedule at the center. |
Spirit Lake Consulting, Inc. -- P.O.Box 663, 314 Circle Dr., Fort Totten, ND 58335 Tel: (701) 351-2175 Fax: (800) 905 -2571
Email us at: Info@SpiritLakeConsulting.com