April Update
LET’S GET BACK TO WORK!
After more than two years of COVID-19 safety protocols that forced us to shutter our program to volunteers, we are thrilled to announce that we will resume our volunteer program, effective April 2. The Oglala Sioux Tribe’s COVID-19 Task Force has lowered the risk assessment into the second-lowest of a five-tier scale, indicating a minimal disruption to the Pine Ridge Reservation.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, it has been our policy to embrace and fully support the tribe’s efforts. That remains true today. As we first said in March of 2020 – and continue to say today: The safety of our volunteers, and the peace of mind and good health of Pine Ridge residents is our top priority.
Re-Member has been part of the Pine Ridge community for 24 years. We bring volunteers to Pine Ridge not only to work, but also to learn about the Lakota way of life. Hundreds of tribal members call on Re-Member each year for assistance. As we work to safely resume our volunteer program this spring, we are anxious to provide more services to community members in need.
In response to the tribe’s guidelines for visiting volunteer groups, we will continue to follow our approved safety plan that requires that ALL volunteers agree to the following:
Submission of proof of COVID-19 vaccination for review by tribal authorities prior to volunteering.
Wearing of face coverings when in public and when in the presence of residents of the Pine Ridge Reservation.
Social distancing of at least six feet whenever possible and practical while in public or in the presence of residents of the Pine Ridge Reservation.
Cleaning and disinfection of worksites, eating and living quarters, and other areas that are a potential area for risk of transmission.
Monitoring of staff and volunteers for COVID-19 symptoms on a daily basis to include temperature taking and assessing for any symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, loss of taste/smell, etc.
Re-Member thanks the Task Force for their leadership and guidance to keep our tribal communities healthy. We remain mindful of the possibility that we may be forced to suspend our program again if COVID cases climb.
We also extend our humble gratitude for the continued and generous support of so many Re-Member benefactors who have provided the means for us to continue operating over the past two years. Without you, there would be no Re-Member today.
Join us as we work to build a better today with the Oglala Lakota Nation.
Take A Trot
Join fellow supporters and volunteers from across the United States and around the world for a “Turtle Trot” 5K, 10K, half-marathon, marathon (or any run/walk of your choosing) in support of Re-Member and the Oglala Lakota people of Pine Ridge.
Your $35 registration fee includes a branded Re-Member tank top that will be mailed to you, and a $10 charitable contribution receipt for tax purposes.
Support the Oglala Lakota Artisan Community
Shop our Re-Member online store for an always-changing selection of handcrafted Lakota crafts, paintings and more. New items, purchased directly from local artisans and crafters include paintings by Kevin Poor Bear, jewelry by Carla Pittman, and ledger prints by Quinton Maldonado.
All purchases directly benefit Oglala Lakota artisans, and support Re-Member’s ongoing work across the Pine Ridge Reservation.
Save the Date: “Growing Tuesday”
This year’s garden program is already underway, with the first seed starts now growing (inside) at Feather II. Your support on “Growing Tuesday,” May 3 will ensure a successful gardening season, and allow us to complete several important projects at our gardens, including the hiring of additional local staff. You can be an early supporter with your gift today.
On behalf of the Oglala Lakota community we serve, thank you for your continued support.