November Update
Our construction and growing seasons have concluded, and we are now transitioning to our winter heating work. We extend our gratitude to all those who contributed to making our work possible throughout the summer season. So many lives were changed by the installation and completion of projects as well as the distribution of thousands of pounds of produce out of our gardens. We are so proud of our team and the extended community that continues to carry our work forward every day.
Our operations team is currently down at the woodpile cutting, splitting and delivering wood to support folks across the reservation. We will continue providing firewood throughout the winter until things start to warm up come spring. Anyone who lives on Pine Ridge is eligible to receive the benefit of this program. We deliver as we are able, respecting the order in which requests are received.
Recent overnight temperatures have consistently dropped near or below freezing. Many families on the reservation live in what is considered “severely substandard” housing. This means homes are missing various functions and features that many across the country might take for granted. Homes lack insulation, effective means of cooling and heating, there are exposed pipes which may freeze, cracks in ceilings and roofs, missing doors and windows, among other issues. Our team hustles hard to do what we can to offer support but the need on Pine Ridge continues to be overwhelming.
SAVE THE DATE: SUPPORT OUR WINTER HEATING PROGRAM ON GIVING TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1
On Giving Tuesday, December 1, we will be raising funds to support our Winter Heating Assistance Program. All contributions to our Giving Tuesday campaign will be utilized to bring warmth to the many who are struggling to make ends meet here on Pine Ridge. Through the distribution of firewood and utility assistance we support hundreds of families during the challenging winter season, when weather can often be severe and dangerous.
We welcome you to donate as an early supporter today! Your gift offers comfort, safety and peace of mind for families who do not have many places to turn. We will begin offering one-time utility assistance in December. The generosity of our donors determines the amount of support we can offer to the community. Every gift matters, and we are grateful for all those who continue to make this program possible!
BOOK YOUR 2027 VOLUNTEER TRIP TO RE-MEMBER
Trip booking is officially open! There are still many slots available during most weeks of our volunteer season, which runs from March through the end of September. Check out our Trip Calendar for weekly availability and to book your trip. Don’t forget about our Mini-Week program if a full week is more than you are able to commit to.
A week at Re-Member is an unforgettable opportunity to learn from and support an incredible community. Hear from local speakers and cultural presenters, learn about US history and the various events, processes and systems that have informed the reality on Pine Ridge today, while also doing meaningful work to make a difference. We would love to see you on the reservation in 2027!
We will share updates about our winter heating work as well as final impact numbers from our volunteer season over the coming weeks. We wish you all the best as the holiday season approaches. Thanks for keeping up with the Re-Member story!
Sincerely,
Will Paese
Executive Director