Meet Kim
“I have a dream, I see strong healthy tribal nations, living out their full potential, pursuing their wellness and walking in balance,” says Kim. She has dedicated her life’s work to helping people with their wellness in some aspect or another.
Kim is an Ojibwe or Chippewa, who studied and worked in community health, complementary health and alternative medicine before coming to work for the Quitlline at National Jewish Health.
“One of my elders and medicine friends described working with medicine and gathering medicine as being a helper,” she says. “In this same notion, I am here as your helper, to help you be commercial tobacco free.”
Kim wants you to know, “you are medicine, your life is sacred — you have gifts and talents to serve others and to live the good life our Creator intended for you.”
Meet Betty
“It takes courage and strength to start a journey of change to quit smoking commercial tobacco,” Betty says. “But I am here to support and encourage you along the way! And, there are other American Indian people here at the Quitline that can help you too!”
Betty is from the Mvskoke (Creek) nation of Oklahoma. She is member of the Fuswv (Bird) clan. She worked in her community for more than five years specializing in the fields of youth and domestic violence before coming to work at the Quitline. Betty brings her understanding of behavior change and motivational interviewing to the Quitline at National Jewish Health.
“I know firsthand how difficult it can be to change a habit, which is why I am happy to be a part of the American Indian Commercial Tobacco Program,” she says. “I want to help you on your journey. I will listen and understand, and help you wherever you are in your journey. Whether you are just starting out, or have had a relapse. We’ve all been there. I look forward to speaking with you soon.”