Rural America Initiatives 35

Rural America Initiatives (RAI) is a non-profit organization based in Rapid City, South Dakota, dedicated to empowering Native American families and youth through education and support. Since its establishment in 1986, RAI has been committed to breaking the cycle of poverty and strengthening communities by providing life skills and cultural values to at-risk and low-income families. With programs such as Early Head Start, Head Start, Ateyapi mentorship, and Lakota language education, RAI aims to create a new generation of Lakota men and women who contribute to society with respect, honesty, generosity, and courage. As the longest operating Native non-profit community organization in Rapid City, RAI serves as a vital resource for the local Indian population. With a team of over 100 employees, including a majority of Native Americans, RAI is one of the largest employers of Native people in the area. The organization's recent expansion, made possible through a successful capital campaign, has allowed RAI to provide an inspirational and nurturing learning environment for children and families. However, due to high demand, RAI is now seeking to further expand its facilities to accommodate the growing number of families in need.Generated from the website

Rural America Initiatives (RAI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Rapid City, South Dakota, dedicated to building successful futures for Lakota youth through education and support since 1986. With a focus on serving the most vulnerable Native American families, RAI provides essential programs such as Early Head Start, Head Start, and the Ateyapi Lakota fatherhood mentorship program, reaching over 800 children and their families annually. RAI addresses critical issues faced by transitional families moving from reservations to urban areas, striving to mitigate the impacts of poverty, homelessness, and access to services. By fostering a supportive environment that emphasizes the Seven Lakota Values, the organization aims to empower families and ensure that children have the resources they need for healthy development and educational success. Generated from the website

Wiconi Wawokiya, Inc. is a non-profit victim services organization located on the Crow Creek Reservation in central South Dakota. Since 1985, they have been dedicated to providing a lifeline to individuals and families affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, family violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. Their comprehensive services include education, prevention, advocacy, safe shelter, crisis hotline, medical and legal support, transportation, support groups, and assistance with resources and referrals. With a focus on creating a safe and supportive environment, Wiconi Wawokiya has developed a complex of buildings that offer refuge and resources for victims, including a shelter with a capacity for 12 to 14 people, storage for donated items, and facilities for adults and children. Recognized as one of the top domestic violence programs, their commitment to social change and empowering individuals has made a significant impact in their community and surrounding rural areas.Generated from the website