ND ICWA Partnership

We're honored to see the ICWA Family Preservationist (IFP) Program featured in this story highlighting the impact of Tribal-State partnership and family-centered practice in North Dakota.

Since 2020, Grand Forks County has seen a significant decrease in both its overall foster care population and the disproportionate representation of Native American children in care. These outcomes reflect the dedication of Tribal partners, Human Service Zones, Native American Training Institute staff, state leaders, families, and communities working together to keep children safely connected to their families, cultures, and Tribes whenever possible.

This work belongs to all of us, and we're grateful for everyone who helped make it possible.

Grand Forks County sees nearly 70% decrease in Native American foster care population Those who implemented the Indian Child Welfare Act family preservationist program, now active throughout the state, hope other counties — and eventually, the nation — follow the trend.

Training opportunity for Tribal partners! Become an ICWA QEW!!

Relatives!

Our upcoming ICWA Qualified Expert Witness Training creates space for people to learn how ICWA shapes the lives of Native children and their families. Over three days, participants settle into conversations that move at a comfortable pace and help them see how their voice can support a child in moments that matter.
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The sessions are patient and simple by design. People learn how to listen closely, how to understand what a court needs to hear, and how cultural knowledge can help guide decisions toward care and connection. The room stays open for questions, reflection, and steady learning.
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By the end, participants carry a clearer sense of how to show up for families with respect. The training helps people feel ready to step into this work with a calm understanding of what the role asks and why it is important.
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Sign up for the QEW Training:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/icwa-qualified-expert-witness-training-tickets-1985733813290
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What the QEW training includes:
https://nativeinstitute.org/qew_may2026/

We were honored to present at the Child Welfare League of America's Annual Conference today! We had a small but engaged audience and did a little sharing and learning!! Great job ladies!!