Our Programs

We strive to provide programs designed to teach youth about their culture, develop skills for their future, and be proud of who they are. We’re continually developing new programs to meet the needs of youth and the entire community.

Culture

Cultural sessions are offered to help youth connect with their Lakota culture and traditions. Sessions include sewing star quilts and ribbon skirts, creating cradle boards, hand games, and elk hunting.

Sports

Sports offered include baseball, archery, and swimming. Our sports programs encourage youth to participate, have fun, learn new skills, and be a part of their own Allen Youth Center teams.

Arts and Crafts

We do a wide variety of arts, crafts, and cooking classes. Lessons include pottery, sewing, making tie-dye shirts, karaoke celebrations, talent shows, and baking pies, zucchini bread, and cookies.

Life Skills

Part of the Allen Youth Center mission is to build a new generation of empowered and engaged world changers. We do this through programs such as Youth Job Skills, Healthy Mind Healthy Spirit Camp, StoryBook Pajama Project, and Oschakata Leadership Camp. Life coping skill sessions are also offered to provide tools and support for all youth center members.

UNCI MAKA (MOTHER EARTH)

The Unci Maka programs help connect Lakota youth with Mother Earth and her offerings. Sessions include nature hikes, exploring the Oglala Lakota Nation, gardening, recycling, upcycling, planting trees, community clean up projects, and Mother Earth preservation.