Mission:
Wambli Ska Community Development Okolakiciye is a Native-led organization committed to advancing the well-being, self-determination, and sovereignty of Indigenous communities, with our youth at the center of all our efforts. As both a development and relief organization, we respond to immediate needs while building long-term solutions. Our mission is to revive culture as a powerful source of strength and resilience to better address the challenges our people face today. We uplift community-driven solutions rooted in Lakota values and intergenerational leadership, creating pathways to healing, education, and economic opportunity. Through culturally grounded services in workforce development, restorative justice, housing, food sovereignty, and youth mentorship, we foster a sustainable future where Native youth, families, and communities thrive with dignity, purpose, and strength.
History
Wambli Ska Okolakiciye began in 2005 as a vision of Daron White Eagle, who worked tirelessly to bring traditional song and dance to youth and their families to revitalize culture and set forth the path of a good road.
After Daron’s passing, his relatives continued with this work, opening Rapid City’s first Native American community teen and family center in the summer of 2021. The center is located in north Rapid City to serve the area’s urban Native American community.
Since the center’s opening in 2021, we have made great strides at expanding services and programs, including expanded hours, additional staff, and an on-site K-12 homeschool.
VISION
Wambli Ska Community Development Okolakiciye envisions a future where Indigenous youth and families live with strength, dignity, and self-determination—grounded in culture, sustained by community, and empowered through opportunity. We see a world where our people not only survive but thrive, supported by systems rooted in Lakota values, where relief and development go hand in hand, and where every generation is equipped to lead with wisdom, resilience, and purpose.
Board of Directors
Tarah White Eagle, President
Jonathon Old Horse, Vice President
Zach Martinez, Secretary
Tracy Sigdestad, Treasurer