Dakota Wicohan

"Being a part of Dakota Wicohan is really like having a second family. We all grow and learn together. I'll always be thankful for Dakota Wicohan for showing me our cultural teachings and for including me in our Dakota ways." -- Tala Pendleton, Senior in High School who has participated in Dakota Wicohan’s youth programming since she was in 5th grade

Dakota Wicohan is a Dakota-led, rural nonprofit organization founded by members of Dakota communities in Minnesota, Mni Sota Makoce, the homeland of the Dakota. We provide programming for youth from 5th to 12th grade and beyond in our home area of Morton, Minnesota.

Now more than ever, during the Covid-19 pandemic and the stress and uncertainty it’s causing, our youth rely on Dakota Wicohan to continue the relationships and support structures we’ve built – even when we’re not able to meet in person. 

Your donation today ensures we’re able to maintain Zoom sessions with our youth, providing continuity and connection through traditional Dakota language and cultural teachings. Our youth show that cultural interventions increase their sense of belonging and their wicozani (well-being), decrease their suicide ideation, and guide good decision making. We will compile Dakota Care Packages to be delivered to our youth, including supplies for making medicine teas, balms and body wash; healthy food and snacks; personal hygiene supplies; materials for traditional arts projects; and smudging/cleansing supplies. Dakota language lessons are incorporated into all of our programming. 

With your help, we can ensure our youth stay strong and engaged through the uncertainty of this global pandemic. Thank you so much for your support! Stay healthy and safe, and find peace in the teachings of our ancestors.

Wopida Tanka -- Thank you very much!