FY2023 Community Courts Initiative

The Kalispel Indian Community of the Kalispel Reservation proposes to plan and implement the Kalispel Tribal Healing to Wellness Court to increase access to treatment for justice system involved individuals with substance use disorders. This project is intended to serve Tribal members charged with criminal offenses for which alcohol or substance use was an underlying factor within the jurisdiction of the Kalispel Tribal Court. The Wellness Court will utilize a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation that focuses on healing the individual, restoring connections to the community, and improving outcomes for tribal members involved in the criminal justice system. The planning phase of this project will involve extensive collaboration among identified stakeholders and members of the community to develop policies, procedures, and guidelines that reflect the unique values, traditions, and needs of the Kalispel Tribal Community. Once implemented, the pre-adjudication Wellness Court will integrate the delivery of intensive judicial supervision, evidence-based clinical treatment interventions, individualized treatment plans informed by data from risk assessment and mental health/substance use assessment tools, and team-based case management to support individuals as they navigate their recovery journey. The expected outcomes of this project include increased engagement in treatment programs, reduced rates of substance abuse, reduced recidivism rates, improved access to support services, and improved public safety.

The Kalispel Tribe is requesting funding under Category 1: Planning and Implementation and is seeking $889,546 in federal funds over the duration of the 48-month grant period. If awarded, this project seeks to provide services to a target of 20 participants over the life of the grant. The proposed Wellness Court will be operating as part of the Kalispel Tribal Court. As a culturally specific Tribal organization seeking to expand access to treatment opportunities for Native Americans, a community that has been historically underserved and adversely affected by inequality.