As children across the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation returned to school, the Cheyenne River Youth Project launched a robust schedule of programs that combine learning, physical activity and fun. Offerings have included a self-defense course, teen internships, food handler training and Main University.
Self-Defense Course
Twenty youth ages 12-18 participated in the two-day self-defense course at CRYP’s Cokata Wiconi (Center of Life) Teen Center in Eagle Butte on Aug. 29-30, led by Billy Walters, a Cheyenne River tribal member and founder of Outlaw MMA and Fitness in Casper, Wyoming. During the course, Walters guided the young people in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense techniques, providing separate sessions for young women and young men.
“Classes like this are an investment in the future of our community,” said Wakinyan Chief, CRYP’s arts manager and course organizer. “Studies show that more than four in five Native women have experienced violence in their lifetime, so it’s vital for our young women to have the skills and confidence to defend themselves.
“This was also for our young men, because empowering them with discipline and giving them a positive outlet are keys to helping them grow into respectful men who will protect our women,” he continued. “By uplifting both our young men and women, we’re building a stronger, safer future for everyone.”
In post-course assessments, the young participants said they were happy they signed up for the event. They appreciated the hands-on training, learned useful techniques, built confidence and asked that CRYP continue to offer programs like this.
“I loved this!” said one participant. “I am definitely doing more CRYP stuff.”
“I liked that I learned things that will help me later in life,” said another. “I feel stronger and more confident now.”
Other participants shared they appreciated Walters’ guidance and instruction to make sure they were doing the moves correctly.
“Billy grew up in Eagle Butte, became a professional fighter and traveled all over the world,” Wakinyan Chief said. “He has long wanted to give back to our community by teaching mixed martial arts to our Cheyenne River youth.”
Teen Internships & Food Safety
Also this month at Cokata Wiconi, seven dedicated students in the Native Food Sovereignty Internship program earned their food handler’s certification through a class offered by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. The teens completed this important training on Sept. 9, during the fourth week of their five-week internship.
“This isn’t just about learning to handle food safely—it’s about learning how to be a good relative,” said Julie Garreau, CRYP’s chief executive officer. “Food is deeply woven into our Lakota culture and daily life, and gathering, preparing and sharing food is an act of care for our community. We are grateful for CRST’s support in this essential learning.”
At press time, CRYP also was concluding its Young Men’s Lakota Culture Internship. The team also was preparing to launch the next round of teen internships in Native Food Sovereignty and Indigenous Foods & Cooking.
Main University
Meanwhile, at “The Main” youth center next door, 12 children ages 6 to 11 completed the most recent installment of CRYP’s award-winning Main University program. On Sept. 12, they enjoyed a graduation ceremony with diplomas, mortarboards and celebratory meal.
Over the course of the five-week program, the students participated in a variety of lessons designed to help them build self-confidence, wellness, decision-making skills, teamwork and cultural identity. Building on previous lessons, the classes offered new objectives each week.
“Our kids explored hands-on activities that strengthened their social-emotional skills, promoted healthy lifestyles and connected them with Lakota culture and traditions,” said Hayley Dupris, CRYP’s youth center manager.
Founded in 2002 by Tracie Farrell and a recipient of a “Champion for Children” award from the South Dakota Coalition for Children, Main University is one of longest-running programs at The Main, the youth project’s center for 4- to 12-year-olds. It is designed to give children opportunities to take short courses that allow them to explore subjects that might not be offered in school.
To support CRYP’s ongoing youth programming at the Cokata Wiconi Teen Center and The Main, visit www.lakotayouth.org/give. Every gift, large or small, makes a real difference in the lives of Cheyenne River’s children.
To learn more about the Cheyenne River Youth Project and its programs, and for information about making donations and volunteering, call (605) 964-8200 or visit www.lakotayouth.org. And, to stay up to date on the latest CRYP news and events, follow the youth project on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
The Cheyenne River Youth Project, founded in 1988, is a grassroots, not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing the youth of the Cheyenne River reservation with access to a vibrant and secure future through a wide variety of culturally sensitive and enduring programs, projects and facilities that ensure strong, self-sufficient families and communities.