IHS Cancer Support Leadership Training

July 28–30, 2026 • Albuquerque, New Mexico

Curt Cares was honored to participate in the Indian Health Service (IHS) Cancer Support Leadership Training (CSLT) held in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Representing Curt Cares were Curt , Grant and Andrew, who joined participants from Tribal communities across the United States for three days of learning, collaboration, reflection, and relationship-building.

The training brought together approximately twenty participants representing numerous Tribal Nations and organizations, including members of the Lakota, Navajo, Chippewa, Cheyenne, and Ponca Nations, along with several other Tribal communities from across the United States. While each participant arrived with unique experiences and perspectives, everyone shared a common purpose—to strengthen cancer support within their communities through culturally grounded leadership, compassion, and authentic human connection.

Unlike a traditional conference centered around presentations and lectures, the Cancer Support Leadership Training created an immersive learning experience where every participant became part of the conversation. Rather than simply providing information, the facilitators modeled the very principles they were teaching by fostering an environment built on trust, respect, humility, and shared purpose.

Throughout the three-day experience, participants explored the Gathering of Native Americans (GONA) Framework, an approach that emphasizes community strengths, healing, resilience, and relationship-building. Rather than focusing solely on cancer as a disease, the training encouraged participants to consider the emotional, spiritual, cultural, and relational aspects of survivorship, recognizing that healing extends far beyond medical treatment.

One of the most impactful concepts introduced during the training was the idea of viewing everyone as a Relative. Rather than defining individuals as patients, caregivers, providers, or advocates, participants were encouraged to recognize the shared humanity that connects every person involved in the cancer journey. This simple shift in perspective reinforced the importance of treating every individual with dignity, compassion, and respect while building stronger, more inclusive support systems.

The training also emphasized the importance of establishing Community Agreements rather than simply setting classroom rules. Together, participants developed shared commitments that created a safe environment where everyone could speak openly, listen respectfully, and learn from one another. These agreements encouraged honesty, confidentiality, accountability, and mutual respect, allowing meaningful conversations to flourish throughout the conference.

Participants engaged in numerous interactive exercises designed to strengthen leadership skills while fostering authentic relationships. Through storytelling, reflection, visualization, affirmation activities, journaling, and team-building exercises, attendees learned practical approaches for creating supportive environments where cancer survivors, caregivers, family members, healthcare professionals, and community advocates all feel welcomed and valued.

Another important lesson centered on relationship before program. Rather than focusing first on creating new initiatives, participants were encouraged to build trust within their communities, listen carefully to the needs of others, identify existing strengths, and cultivate meaningful partnerships before developing support programs. This relationship-first philosophy closely aligns with Curt Cares' mission of serving communities through compassion, collaboration, and genuine human connection.

The leadership of the training team played a significant role in creating such a meaningful experience. Co-lead facilitators Connie Garcia and Michele Suina guided participants through each day's activities with authenticity, humility, and encouragement. Their facilitation style emphasized participation over presentation, allowing every voice to be heard while demonstrating the principles of respectful community engagement.

Supporting the overall experience was Roberta Paisano, whose leadership and vision provided the foundation for the Cancer Support Leadership Training program. While much of her work occurred behind the scenes, her influence could be seen throughout every aspect of the conference.

Richard Mousseau and Brittney LaCroix ensured the event operated seamlessly by coordinating logistics, supporting participants, and helping create an environment where everyone could focus fully on learning, connecting, and growing. Their professionalism and servant leadership reflected the collaborative spirit that defined the entire training.

Beyond the educational sessions, the conference provided valuable opportunities to build relationships with Tribal leaders, healthcare professionals, cancer survivors, caregivers, advocates, and community organizations from across the country. These conversations reinforced the importance of collaboration and created new connections that Curt Cares looks forward to strengthening in the future.

For Curt Cares, the experience reaffirmed that meaningful community engagement begins by listening before leading. The principles shared throughout the Cancer Support Leadership Training closely align with the organization's ongoing commitment to creating safe spaces for conversation, strengthening partnerships, supporting families impacted by prostate cancer, and ensuring every individual feels seen, heard, and valued.

The lessons learned in Albuquerque continue to influence the future direction of Curt Cares. Concepts such as relationship-centered outreach, Relative Roundtables, community agreements, affirmation practices, and culturally responsive engagement will help shape future initiatives as the organization expands its outreach across Oklahoma and beyond.

Curt Cares extends its sincere gratitude to the entire Cancer Support Leadership Training team for creating an experience that was both educational and transformative. The knowledge shared, relationships formed, and lessons learned during these three days will continue to guide our mission as we work alongside communities to improve awareness, strengthen support, and help ensure that no one faces cancer alone.