Important news about Re-Member's next chapter
For nearly three decades, Re-Member has been privileged to serve alongside the Oglala Lakota people on the Pine Ridge Reservation. What began as a small, determined effort in 1998 has grown into one of the longest-serving nonprofit organizations on Pine Ridge. Our work is guided by humility, respect, and relationships, and made possible because of an extraordinary community of volunteers, donors, and friends.
Today, I write to share important news about Re-Member’s next chapter.
After a period of planning and review, the Board of Directors has determined that this is a key moment for the organization. One that calls for a new leadership structure to effectively support our expanding operations, while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organization.
Evolving Our Leadership Structure
As part of this transition, the Board has approved two new and complementary leadership roles:
The current Executive Director position will transition into a full-time Program Director role, managing the on-the-ground work that defines Re-Member’s mission. This position will engage directly with the community, welcome and support volunteers, ensure our garden, winter heating, and home improvement programs continue to thrive, respond to urgent community needs, and oversee the various operational details that make our work possible.
At the same time, the Board will launch a search for Re-Member’s inaugural Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This new role will oversee the organization’s fiduciary responsibilities, organizational strategy, fundraising, external relations, senior staff and serve as the liaison to the Board.
Together, these roles reflect Re-Member’s growth and commitment to furthering our impact.
With Deep Gratitude
At the heart of this moment is our profound gratitude to Will Paese, whose service to Re-Member spans many years. Many of you know Will first came to Pine Ridge in 2015 for what was meant to be just one volunteer week. That week became four, then an entire summer. And then, year after year, he returned. Since joining Re-Member full time in 2020, Will has worked alongside previous leadership and currently serves as Executive Director himself with his ever-present commitment, steadiness, and heart.
We are thrilled that Will remains with Re-Member through the end of 2026, ensuring continuity during this transition and mentoring the new Program Director.
To current and past community members, cultural presenters, friends, staff, and supporters: please know that we are deeply grateful for your role in sustaining Re-Member’s work. This moment would not be possible without the vision, labor, and care of those who helped bring Re-Member to where it is today.
What Comes Next – and How You Can Help
The Board will lead a national search for Re-Member’s first CEO, with the goal of welcoming this new leader in the coming months. We will share more details as the process moves forward.
At the same time, we are actively recruiting for the Program Director role. We would be grateful for your help in sharing this opportunity with friends, former volunteers, and others who may feel compelled to make a meaningful mark in a nonprofit organization that changes lives every single day. The Program Director prospectus is available on our website. Please share these communications and help us spread the word!
The Board believes these steps honor Re-Member’s past while strengthening its future, especially supporting our ongoing service to and partnership with the Oglala Lakota people.
Thank you for believing in and being part of this work.
With gratitude,
Dan Peters
Board Chair
Re-Member