Volunteer FAQs

What Kind of Work do Volunteers Do?

Volunteers play a key role in supporting CRYP and the Cheyenne River community. Responsibilities include:

  • Implementing planned activities for children.
  • Supervising recreational programs, arts and crafts, and sports activities.
  • Preparing meals and snacks.
  • Mentoring and engaging with youth.
  • Working in our organic garden.
  • Helping with facilities maintenance and janitorial tasks.

Who Oversees Volunteers While They Work?

Volunteers are under the supervision of the Youth Programs Director, but they may be directed in day-to-day tasks by other staff.

Why Do I Have to Pay a Fee?

This fee supports transportation from the airport to CRYP, facilities maintenance and volunteer-related costs, including supplies and accommodations. If you have concerns about the fee, our Volunteer Program Coordinator is happy to discuss potential solutions or alternative arrangements.

How Do I Get There?

We are located in Eagle Butte, SD on the Cheyenne River Reservation. Our two closest airports are in Pierre, SD (90 miles away), and Rapid City, SD (165 miles away). Volunteers are responsible for their own transportation to South Dakota. CRYP can arrange pick-up from either Pierre or Rapid City on the first or third Monday of the month.

If you choose to drive, you will be able to park your vehicle on the CRYP campus, but please keep in mind that we are not responsible for any damages to your vehicle. Please make sure your vehicle is reliable because we are located in a remote, rural area.

Where Will I Live?

We have fully equipped dorm-style volunteer housing at our youth and teen centers, with private bathrooms and living quarters. Volunteers may be required to share a room. The volunteer quarters have wifi, heat and air conditioning. Pets are not allowed on campus. If you have a service animal, please contact us at volunteering.cryp@gmail.com for more information.

What About Food?

Volunteers are welcome to eat with our youth when we prepare meals, but they are responsible for purchasing their own food while they live with us. The Lakota Thrifty Mart is the grocery store in Eagle Butte, and there is also a Family Dollar with basics. Please be aware that the Cheyenne River community is a food desert, and prices at the grocery store may be higher than you expect. Many volunteers take the opportunity to do shopping at Walmart in Pierre or Rapid City when possible.

What Should I Pack?

Volunteers should bring comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes suitable for indoor and outdoor activities. Bedding and towels are available for use, but many volunteers do bring their own.

Cheyenne River has a variable climate. If visiting us during the cold months, please bring snow boots, warm clothes and a heavy jacket. If visiting us in the summer, pack shorts, T-shirts and lots of sunscreen.

Temperatures can range from 85°F to 95°F (29°C to 35°C) in the summer, to 20°F to -15°F (-6°C to -26°C) in winter. Extremes beyond these ranges are possible.

What About Healthcare?

Volunteers who are on medication should bring enough to last them throughout their stay. Eagle Butte has a pharmacy and hospital, but volunteers need to have their own health insurance when they come.

Will I Have a Chance to Learn More About Lakota Culture?

Yes! CRYP makes an effort to arrange community speakers who educate volunteers on reservation history, Lakota traditions, land treaties and the local way of life. Volunteers are encouraged to ask questions and participate in discussions with staff and elders. Volunteers are also welcome to participate in community events such as powwows and rodeos. Staff can offer recommendations and connections.

What is There to Do?

Eagle Butte has a two-screen movie theater. You can go to 7th Generation Cinema’s Facebook page each week to see what is showing.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Badlands National Park
  • Mount Rushmore National Monument
  • Crazy Horse Memorial
  • Black Hills (Paha Sapa) National Forest
  • Wind Cave National Park
  • Bear Butte (Mato Paha) State Park
  • Devils Tower (Mato Tipila)

What Can I Do to Make The Most of My Experience?

  • Stay positive – an energetic attitude makes a big difference!
  • Be flexible – schedules can shift, and patience is appreciated.
  • Build relationships – get to know staff, elders and children to create meaningful connections.
  • Prepare activities – bringing games, stories or crafts for children will help keep them engaged.

EXPLORE OUR VOLUNTEER SECTION

Individual Volunteers

Many volunteers remark on how they feel an instant connection to South Dakota, to Eagle Butte, to the Cheyenne River community. As a result, we frequently have volunteers return for a second, third and even a fourth time!

Group Volunteers

The Cheyenne River Youth Project has a long history of working with volunteer groups from all over the country. Hosting service groups has been an exciting challenge for us and a source of new ideas, creativity and support.

Volunteer Spotlight

Our volunteers not only help us but gain much personally.

Volunteer FAQs

Questions we frequently receive from volunteers, and answers!

Apply to Volunteer

Learn more about our application process, details and guidelines. Access our application forms for Individual and Group Volunteers.