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The Model of Engaging Communities Collaboratively was developed with the integration of literature reviews in cultural adaptation approaches, engagement and implementation approaches; and international Indigenous feedback to inform the processes of implementing evidence-based practices (EBP) with Indigenous populations. This model synthesises the collective strengths of these approaches and feedback and provides checklists for practicality of use by researchers, service providers and global Indigenous populations alike. This article describes the process of the theoretical development of the MECC and the feedback that refined it into a functional model for working with Indigenous populations worldwide.

An awareness of the complex social and political context for parenting in Indigenous cultures is important to the success of parenting interventions. This chapter shares experiences of successful program adoption, implementation, and sustainment that stem from working in partnership with an Indigenous organization, peak body, or ideally an entire community. A model of engaging communities collaboratively is discussed that encompasses the many aspects of engagement and sustainment in an implementation initiative. It takes a holistic partnership approach that involves recognition of community dynamics and capacity, establishing trust and relationship building, empowerment, and mutual respect, as well as addressing specific enablers and barriers to program implementation. This approach involves engaging with local community advisers to develop culturally accommodated training and posttraining support for practitioners, and culturally accommodated program delivery to families.