Student Testimonials

"It was an emotional roller coaster because I was very happy to be there, but sad to see what the Lakota people have to go through every day...Overall this trip to Pine Ridge meant a lot to me and I cannot wait to go back! I learned so much about the culture as well as about myself." --Kayla

"I really came for the service. To help people. To feel like I'm making a difference. But when I got here, I realized how little I know about this culture. In the 2 1/2 days that we've been here, I've just been blown away. At first it was by the state of living on the Rez. The extreme poverty that is so prevalent - and in our own country! But in getting to know and listening to the people, I began to notice the love that they have. Love for everyone. Deep, satisfying love. I realized how much we need and have to learn from these people. And I've realized that I've been changed and affected much more than the people whom we are serving will be." -- Alyssa

"Service trips are not enough. Nowhere near enough." -- Joe

"Health care, education, employment, homes, roads, sustainability, hope, and so much more are needed here, yet they already have more than we do in the form of wisdom and cultural richness. My heart is overwhelmed with too many emotions to give words. I have been honored to serve the Pine Ridge Community, and they have more than graciously accepted our presence here. It has provided me a missing link to a much greater purpose for my life." -- Alisa

"Today I learned that calling the Indians "Native Americans" is just another example of how the white man stole something that they thought was theirs and mutilated it to befit their existence." -- Marvin

"This experience has completely changed my life. I never grew up thinking much about the fact that there are people in the US that do not have much. I also cannot believe how much history has been wiped from the curriculum that we learn from at school. The obvious, unwarranted racism that the Lakota people face still today astounds and saddens me. It is really hard for me to put into words everything that I am taking away from this experience. If only everyone could have the chance to journey to Pine Ridge and experience this for themselves!" -- Kirsten

"I love the way they express and show their indigenous culture and spirituality...Beyond daily obstacles, I can see the light of optimism, the pride of their uniqueness when they talk about their culture, perform a Lakota song or play drum...These days are unforgettable days. I have had so much fun. People care about me so much that I have a feeling like I was at home and that I had a family beside me. Thanks all of you." -- Vo