The Montana Native American Maternal Health Community Advisory Board (CAB) is an Indigenous-led effort established in early 2024, grounded in community voice, lived experience, and collective care. The CAB brings together diverse members, including Indigenous mothers, fathers, birthworkers, doulas, and nurses, to guide and strengthen maternal health outcomes in Tribal communities. Stewarded by Berry Medicine Native BirthWork Initiatives, the CAB centers culturally grounded approaches and acts as a trusted space for Indigenous leadership, ensuring that maternal health efforts are responsive and aligned with the needs of Tribal and Urban Native communities.

The Native American Maternal Health Community Advisory Board (CAB) is an Indigenous-led effort grounded in community voice, lived experience, and collective care. The CAB brings together individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives including Indigenous mothers, aunties, birthworkers, doulas, nurses, and fathers to guide, inform, and strengthen program efforts.

In 2023, an intentional partnership was formed between the Native American Initiatives program at Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies - The Montana Coalition, the Western Montana Area Health Education Center, and the Family Medicine Residency of Western Montana.The shared goal of this collaboration is to strengthen maternal health outcomes in Tribal communities through relationship-building, collaboration, and culturally informed education. 

Established in early 2024, the CAB has grown into a trusted and respected space for Indigenous leadership & guidance. Now in its third year, the CAB continues to evolve under Berry Medicine Native BirthWork Initiatives, centering community-led and culturally grounded approaches to maternal health. 

CAB Structure & Participation

• The CAB meets regularly (monthly) for facilitated sessions focused on discussion, feedback, and collaboration

• Meetings are held in the evenings to support accessibility for members with varying schedules

• Members are compensated for their time, expertise, and contributions

• Participation is grounded in community connection, lived experience, and a shared commitment to improving maternal health outcomes

• Membership reflects a range of Indigenous identities and experiences, prioritizing connection to community and passion for maternal and family health

Community Engagement & Collaboration

The CAB also serves as a bridge between communities and organizations seeking meaningful engagement with Indigenous populations. Programs, partners, and statewide initiatives may engage with the CAB through structured feedback sessions, presentations, and collaborative discussions.

Through this role, the CAB helps ensure that maternal health efforts are responsive, respectful, and aligned with the needs and priorities of Tribal and Urban Native communities.

Join & Connect

Berry Medicine Native BirthWork Initiatives welcomes continued connection with Indigenous community members, birthworkers, and partners who are interested in engaging with the Native American Maternal Health Community Advisory Board.

To learn more about the CAB, request collaboration, or inquire about participation opportunities, please connect with us at info@berrymedicine.org