February Update

Greetings from Pine Ridge!

The first month of the new year was bitterly cold here on the reservation. Temperatures dropped as low as -35° and “felt like” -52°. During one exceptionally frigid stretch the temperature did not rise above 0° for nearly 124 hours. This cold is not only harsh, but also dangerous. During these brutal periods many on the reservation must resort to extreme measures such as burning cardboard, clothes, furniture and whatever else is available to stay warm. The work Re-Member does to assist with home heating goes a long way to provide some measure of safety, comfort, and peace of mind through these trying and difficult spells.

In January alone our team was able to make firewood deliveries to over 145 homes across the reservation. The cold is hard on our equipment, trucks, and personnel, but the work is well worth it. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be comfortable in their own home. Our committed staff continue to step up every day, despite challenging conditions to serve the needs of the community.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we have been able to assist more than 100 families with propane, electric and home heating-oil payments so far this winter season. We will continue to make payments in support of community members over the coming weeks. The amount of assistance that we are able to offer relies directly on contributions from our supporters. Consider a donation to give the gift of warmth in support of our work alongside the Oglala Lakota Oyate of Pine Ridge.

2024 SEASON INFORMATION

The 2024 volunteer season is only a month away! We will welcome our first group of volunteers on March 2 and will continue to host groups through September. There is still plenty of availability most weeks. Open slots will book up quickly in the coming weeks, so take a look at your calendar and plan your trip out to the reservation. Our staff and I would be thrilled to host you as a volunteer in 2024.

Find further details about volunteering with Re-Member and book your trip online.

“Re-Member has been more than a service trip; it has been an experience that has impacted me for life.”

Come be a part of our ongoing commitment to learn from and stand with the Oglala Lakota people. Join us as we build a better today – and tomorrow as informed by the community we serve here on the Pine Ridge Reservation.

SUPPORT THE OGLALA LAKOTA ARTISAN COMMUNITY

We have new items available for sale in the Re-Member online store. Look through dozens of items including beadwork, quillwork, paintings, jewelry and more! A purchase from the Re-Member Store supports the many talented local Oglala Lakota artists and crafters who live here on the reservation.

We add new items to the store throughout the year, so if you don’t find something you like today, be sure to visit again sometime soon!

Our work continues in large part because of the generosity of individuals like you. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve this incredible community. We appreciate your support and hope to see you on the reservation this season!

Will Paese
Executive Director