Kauffman and Associates, Inc. (KAI) is a Native-owned consulting firm specializing in health equity, behavioral health transformation, and community resilience services [2]. Founded in 1990 by Jo Ann Kauffman (Nez Perce), the company has evolved from a single-person operation into a respected Native-advocacy organization providing comprehensive strategic planning, research, and system transformation services [1].
Under the leadership of CEO Kevin Ollokot Keefe since 2020, KAI maintains an executive team of distinguished professionals who guide the organization's strategic direction:
- Kevin Ollokot Keefe (Nez Perce) - CEO, MBA from Wharton School [4]
- Jo Ann Kauffman (Nez Perce) - Founder and President [1]
- Dr. Chesleigh Keene (Diné/Navajo) - VP, Research and Evaluation [1]
- John Mankowski - VP, Community and Environmental Resilience [1]
- Danica Brown (Choctaw) - VP, Behavioral Health Transformation [1]
With over three decades of experience, KAI has developed deep expertise in several core competency areas:
- Indian health systems and healthcare administration [1]
- Environmental and natural resource policy [1]
- Behavioral health and crisis response services [1]
- Strategic planning and organizational development [1]
- Communications and cultural competency [1]
KAI maintains a strong federal contracting presence through its GSA Schedule GS-00F-0012S [1]. The company holds multiple socioeconomic designations and certifications:
- Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
- Minority Women-Owned Small Business (MWOSB)
- Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB)
- Indian Small Business Economic Enterprise (ISBEE)
- Buy Indian Act qualified
- Minority Women's Business Enterprise (WA State)
Federal registration and contract vehicles include:
The organization operates across multiple service categories through Special Item Numbers (SINs) including professional services, marketing and media, research, and event management [2]. Their comprehensive capabilities are reflected in their core NAICS codes:
- Professional Services: 541611, 541613, 541618, 541690
- Marketing & Communications: 541810, 541910
- Support Services: 541990, 561499, 561920
- Education: 611430, 611710
- Public Administration: 921190 [1]
KAI has demonstrated success in managing large-scale projects, including coordinating meetings with over 200 participants [2] and managing communication campaigns reaching 50,000 recipients [6]. Their client portfolio spans federal agencies, tribal organizations, state health departments, and major consulting firms, positioning them as a significant contractor in both government and tribal sectors [4].