ASOCIACION MAYAB
PROGRAMS

THE INDIGENA HEALTH AND WELLNESS COLLABORATIVE

The Indigena Health and Wellness Collaborative is a partnership
between the Instituto Familiar de la Raza and Asociacion Mayab,
whose mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of Indigenous
families in San Francisco.

The Indigena Health and Wellness Collaborative of San Francisco
believes that maintaining our culture and traditions is a way to stay
healthy and connected to our community.  Our program promotes
social activities as well as spiritual and cultural ceremonies that help
participating families reaffirm their Indigenous identity, connect with
their community, and feel proud of their roots.  The program also
offers health education services, referrals for healthcare and social
services, and counseling and financial support for families in the
event of an emergency.  A team of health promoters offer these
services in a variety of Maya languages including Cho’l, Quiche’,
Tzeltal, and Yucatec Maya.

Culture.
We create and support spiritual activities, traditional celebrations
and artistic activities that help maintain mental, spiritual, family, and
social health.

Community Health.
A team of health promoters are located across strategic sites where
they provide information and referrals to persons in need of health
and social services.

Mental Health.
A mental health worker is available to provide emotional support,
brief orientation, and referrals to agencies where people can
receive individual and family therapy.  Our program receives
support from therapists and social workers at the Instituto Familiar
de la Raza.

Education and Support Groups.
We offer group activities so that families can learn about various
health-related topics, such as stress, sexuality, alcoholism,
diabetes, etc.  Other groups incorporate cultural elements like
embroidery and traditional dance.
PHOTOS FROM THE PROGRAMA
DE PROMOTORES GRADUATION
2009-2010
Photos: Vinia-Ramos Castro