This month, CRYP staff joyfully welcomed our children back to “The Main” youth center and the Cokata Wiconi (Center of Life) teen center. While we are grateful to focus on our Wo Otuh’an Wi (Moon of Giving Away Presents) Toy Drive throughout the month of December, we miss our kids, and the day of their return is a happy one.
One of those bright sparks is 7-year-old Meagan Little Wounded, a second-grader who has been attending programs at The Main for about a year. Meagan says she loves The Main because it’s a fun place to be.
What does she like best?
“Getting presents and getting new Barbies,” she says, the holiday season still fresh in her mind. “And doing activities! My favorite activity is coloring.”
Part of The Main’s daily programming is arts-and-crafts time, and Meagan says she really enjoys learning how to make new things. One of her highlights was learning to make “zines” last summer with artist Souther Salazar and three other volunteers.
“I loved learning how to make a book out of paper,” she recalls. (Learn more at www.southersalazar.com.)
Meagan says she can’t wait to go to Cokata Wiconi when she turns 13.
“I don’t know what they do, but I’m going to go,” she says firmly, and her eyes remain on CRYP for her life after high school, as well.
“I want to be like you guys!” she says. “I want to work here. And I want to travel to Rapid City, and to California to see my brother.”
We’re so excited to watch your journey unfold, Meagan.