Causes: Centers to Support the Independence of Specific Populations, Children & Youth, Education, Homeless & Housing, Human Services

Mission: Guided by the aspirations of the Oglala Lakota communities we serve, Re-Member seeks to improve the quality of Reservation life through relationships, shared resources, and volunteer services.

Results: 2020 was a year unlike any other in Re-Member’s history and challenged the organization to adjust to the new realities of the world around us. Just as our volunteer season was beginning in March, COVID-19 arrived. With tribal travel restrictions and lockdowns implemented, we quickly reimagined how Re-Member would respond without the 1,000+ volunteers we were looking forward to hosting. With generous support from afar, we have been able to continue meeting the varied and complex needs of the Pine Ridge community. Although the number of jobs completed this year was lower, the fact that we were able to safely provide services is a testament to the commitment of our staff and the generosity of our supporters. As we look ahead to 2021, we are hopeful that conditions will allow us to return to normal operations. The safety of our volunteers, and the peace of mind and good health of Pine Ridge residents remains our top priority as we plan for the future.

Target demographics: Oglala Lakota Oyate (Nation) living on the Reservation.

Geographic areas served: Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.

Programs: Re-Member is a non-profit outreach that has coexisted with the Lakota people on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Re-Member works through a small group of staff and more than 1,100 volunteers each year. We spend time on historical and cultural immersion, sharing meals, celebrating alongside Lakota at local powwows, and working to improve living conditions of the tribal members.