Native version of AA

State's Indian tribes come together to discuss recovery

Traditional means of treatment may not be enough for someDespite the statistics and the stereotypes of the "drunken Indian," as White Bison coordinator Blaine Wood put it, it's vital to recognize the importance of recovery. Mainstream methods such as Alcoholics Anonymous may not be enough, Wood said.

"A lot of Native Americans may go to these meetings, but most don't for whatever reason," Wood said. "So we've adapted the message. Use the same steps as AA, but we call it Circles of Recovery."

Green Bay resident Ronald Singleton, who is studying at the College of Menominee Nation to become an alcohol and other drug abuse counselor, said getting a "non-European perspective" on a topic as pervasive as substance abuse was refreshing.