Peggy Jo Archer
Director of Elder Justice Projects
Peggy Jo presently holds the Director of the Elder Justice Project role at the International Association for Indigenous Aging. With a deep connection to New Mexico, Arizona, and Mexico, Peggy Jo embarked on her journey in violence prevention in 2007, focusing on bullying prevention through the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. Progressing in the nonprofit sector, she spearheaded community-based prevention programs and orchestrated impactful events like the Take Back the Night Rally and Clothesline project.
Peggy Jo brings a wealth of experience not only in program leadership but also in training community members, medical, law enforcement, and military professionals in trauma and culturally informed practices. Her expertise extends beyond traditional sectors, creating a bridge between diverse fields. Her expertise extends to mobilizing communities to address violence, creating a cohesive and informed front against these challenges.
In 2020, Peggy Jo assumed the position of Partnership Specialist at the United States Census Bureau. In this capacity, she was pivotal in crafting six Complete Count Committees, collaborating closely with communities to devise culturally sensitive approaches to ensure enumeration for traditionally undercounted populations.
Drawing from her extensive background, Peggy Jo brings a wealth of experience in overseeing program operations for federally funded projects, including the National Indigenous Elder Justice Initiative (NIEJI) at the University of North Dakota and the Native American Elder Justice Initiative National Resource Center (NAEJI) at state, regional, and national levels. Serving as a knowledgeable and culturally informed resource for American Indians. Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian aging issues, Peggy Jo places a particular emphasis on combating elder abuse.
A graduate of Park University with a major in Administration of Criminal Justice and a minor in Social Psychology, Peggy Jo is deeply committed to advancing elder justice initiatives and fortifying violence prevention resources through her leadership and advocacy. Her passion lies in delivering culturally relevant services and resources that contribute to systematic change, reflecting her dedication to community well-being.
