Tribal members called on state and federal officials to expand prevention and treatment programs that target tribes. "We are trying to get to our youth because that's our future," said Dennis Smith Sr., vice chairman of the Shoshone Paiute Tribes.

According to Charles Curie, head of the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), American Indians have the highest rate of drug misuse, binge drinking, and mental illness among all racial and ethnic groups.

"Until very recently, despite good intentions and best efforts, our methods and plans to reach American Indians and Native Americans and improve access to services in their communities have been less than successful," he said.

Curie cited the geographic isolation of some tribes and a lack of funding nationwide for the growing problem among American Indian youth.

Several tribes had applied for funding from SAMHSA's Access to Recovery grants. Fourteen states and one tribal group were awarded grants under the $100-million program.

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