Durant

Researchers are evaluating the Wakaya Rising Up for Choctaw Youth Health program in a randomized waitlist-control trial involving Choctaw youth ages 12 to 19. This study aims to improve physical activity, reduce sedentary behaviors, promote healthy eating habits, and delay or decrease alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. The program is an experiential, outdoor, nature-based intervention grounded in Choctaw values that enhances motivation and leadership skills to support healthy choices. Participants are assigned either to start the Wakaya program immediately or after a 3-month wait. The program includes up to 20 group sessions over 3 months focusing on Choctaw history, traditions, and health beliefs, combined with outdoor activities like ropes courses, walking, and gardening. Participants attend an overnight culture camp and walk the Choctaw Trail of Tears. From months 4 to 12, there are group meetings for planning community leadership events, including motivational interviewing, digital storytelling, and a Traditional Games Olympiad. Fitbit devices and a social media platform support activity tracking and peer encouragement. During the study, participants complete baseline and follow-up assessments including physical health measures BMI, weight, puberty age, accelerometer activity tracking, a 12-minute run or walk, and computer-assisted behavioral surveys at baseline, post-intervention, and 3 and 6 months later. The study measures changes in physical activity, sedentary behavior, food and beverage habits, alcohol and drug use, and leadership development. Selected participants and community members participate in focus groups to assess the programs ripple effects. Total participation spans up to 12 months with scheduled evaluations throughout.