Our Mission

The Native American Training Institute is dedicated to fostering empowerment among individuals, families, and the broader community. Our mission is to create a nurturing and secure environment where children and families can thrive. By providing comprehensive support and resources, we aim to help everyone reach their fullest potential. We believe that a healthy and safe community is the foundation for achieving personal and collective growth, and we are committed to making this vision a reality.

Our Trainings

Cultural Competency and Communications

A skills-based training engineered to help you better serve Native American communities by better understanding our cultural backgrounds.

Extending Our Families Through Unity

An extensive training for foster parents of First Nations you to help you better understand their needs and promote positive development.

Historical Trauma in Native American Communities

An in-depth examination of historical trauma and inter-generational grief designed to equip you with strategies for healing and growth.

Wraparound in Indian Country

This module adapts a national program, blending Indigenous perspectives with centuries-old knowledge from Tribal Nations.

News & Events

ICWA Qualified Expert Witness Training

Ready to make a difference? The Native American Training Institute's ICWA Qualified Expert Witness Training is here to help you bring your exper...
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ICWA Hour Monthly

Join us the 4th Thursday of Every Month! Remember, if you have any questions at all, feel free to reach out directly to JessiL@nativeinsti...
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2025 North Dakota Indian Child Welfare & Wellness Conference Registration

Please note EARLY BIRD Registration has ended Conference Forms Registration Form Exhibitor / Vendor Form ND ICWW Schedule Day 1 an...
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SAVE THE DATE! Join Us for the 24th Annual Indian Child Welfare & Wellness Conference!

We are excited to announce that the 24th Annual Indian Child Welfare & Wellness Conference will take place April 22-24, 2025, at the beautiful Sp...
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Our Team

Gillian Plenty Chief

Director

gillianp@nativeinstitute.org

Jessi Leneaugh

IFP Program Director

jessil@nativeinstitute.org

Dereck Stonefish

Training Coordinator

derecks@nativeinstitute.org

Sloan Henry

ICWA Capacity Builder

sloanh@nativeinstitute.org

Leah McCloud

ICWA Family Preservationist

leahm@nativeinstitute.org

Brittnee Foote

ICWA Family Preservationist

brittneef@nativeinstitute.org

Lonnie Wise Spirit

Cultural Connections Coordinator

lonnieW@nativeinstitute.org

Jill Doernbach

ICWA Family Preservationist

JillW@nativeinstitute.org

Bobbie Kastner

ICWA Family Preservationist

BobbieK@nativeinstitute.org

Devon Headdress

ICWA Family Preservationist

Devonh@nativeinstitute.org

Advocate for Wellness

Join us as we honor and strengthen our shared commitment to protecting Native children, preserving culture, and fostering wellness at the 24th Annual North Dakota Indian Child Welfare & Wellness Conference.
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