INVESTING IN YOUTH

The Tokata Youth Center desires youth to recognize and know that they are loved and valued, live with purpose and hope, and empowered to create positive change, leading our community to a better and brighter future.

PROGRAMMING

Foundational to all programming is character building through the holistic teaching of Christian principles and Dakota Oyate values, culture, and language.

Youth meet Monday through Friday after school.  Programming includes a craft, reading time or homework help, Life Skills/Character training, physical activity, and concludes with a meal.
Social Focus:  Encourage Healthy Relationships
  • Life skills classes—relationships, coping skills, self-worth, etc.
  • Service Opportunities within the community.
  • Mentors teach/model conflict resolution for youth.
  • Provide daily opportunities for youth to lead/serve in TYC programs (informal)
  • Provide opportunity to become a Junior Intern at Cantemawaste Summer Youth Camp.
Academic Focus:  Encourage Setting & Achieving Life Goals.
  • Reading program and help with homework.
  • Life skills classes- goal setting.
  • Facilitate clubs and groups based on interest.
Wellness Focus:  Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle & Food Sovereignty
  • Garden located at the Tokata Youth Center.
  • Foraging, harvesting, and preparation of healthy foods.
  • Classes on traditional Native American foods.
  • Physically active games and activities.
  • Developing creativity through arts and crafts.

Schedule

SCHEDULE
Monday: Open in Outer Districts only (4:15-6:30 K-12th Grade)
Tuesday: K-7th Grade 3:30-6:00 and 8th-12th Grade 6:00-7:30
Wednesday: K-7th Grade 3:30-6:00 and 8th-12th Grade 6:00-7:30
Thursday: K-7th Grade 3:30-6:00 and 8th-12th Grade 6:00-7:30
Friday: K-7th Grade 3:30-6:00 and 8th-12th Grade 6:00-7:30

The youth center is open and available every day all year round, except holidays or when the Crow Creek Tribal School has an early out due to bad weather.

Outer Districts

​Each Monday the Tokata Youth Center provides programming which alternates back and forth between the Crow Creek District and Big Bend District. Since we travel to these outlying districts with our entire staff, the Fort Thompson location is closed on Mondays.