One Spirit

08/27/2026

We're back with another: "Growing Strong Together".

Young people need to hear that we are proud of them, not only when they win, earn a good grade, or accomplish something big, but also for who they are and the ways they are growing.

Our words can become part of the voice they carry within themselves. When we notice their kindness, courage, effort, creativity, or resilience and say it out loud, we help them recognize those strengths in themselves.

This week, take a moment to tell a young person something you are proud of about the person they are becoming.

“I’m proud of how kind you are.”

“I’m proud of you for trying, even when it was hard.”

“I’m proud of the way you care about others.”

Never assume they already know. Let them hear it from you.

08/26/2026

Today, One Spirit’s phone has been ringing with calls from families who have run out of food.

One of those calls came from a grandmother caring for nine grandchildren. There was no food left in their home and no transportation available to get groceries. She called because she had nowhere else to turn.

Her family is not alone.

Over 6000 people living on the Pine Ridge Reservation rely on One Spirit’s food assistance. Right now, the need is growing faster than our pantries can keep up.

We need your help today. Your donation helps keep our pantry shelves stocked and puts food directly into the hands of Lakota children, elders, and families who need it urgently.

Pine Ridge is calling. Please help us answer.

Donate now at https://www.onespiritlakota.org

08/22/2026

The Okini List is officially back!

Many of you have been asking where the list went and how you can access it. We recently moved it to a new online platform, and it is now back up and running at a brand-new web address!

“Okini” means “to share.” The Okini List connects generous donors directly with Lakota families and individuals who need essential items such as clothing, school supplies, food, hygiene products and household necessities. Each listing includes information about the family and the specific items they currently need, allowing you to provide meaningful support directly to someone in the community.

Visit the new Okini List, choose a family or request you would like to help with, and follow the instructions on the page:

https://www.onespiritlakota.org/okinilist

Please share this post and help us spread the word that the Okini List is back!

08/20/2026

08/19/2026

Introducing Growing Strong Together = a new weekly series from the Allen Youth Center!

Each week, we’ll share simple, helpful information about the emotional, social, and everyday needs of children and teens, along with realistic ways parents, relatives, caregivers, and community members can support them.

We’re starting with one of the simplest—and most powerful—things we can offer a young person: our attention.

Young people don’t always need us to have the perfect answer or fix the problem. Sometimes, they just need to know someone is listening.

This week, try asking:

“What was the best and hardest part of your day?”

Then put away distractions and give them space to answer. Small moments of connection can help young people feel heard, valued, and supported.

Together, we can help our young people grow strong. 💚

08/14/2026

Thank you to KOTA Territory News for helping spread the word!

Nonprofit One Spirit is calling for emergency donations to support Pine Ridge Reservation families after a destructive hailstorm caused widespread damage.

08/14/2026

We have a new mailing address for donated supplies!

The Allen Youth Center is always in need of regular white or clear glue, general arts and crafts supplies, and school supplies. Donations of clothing and shoes are also greatly appreciated and shared with members of the local community.

Donated supplies can be mailed to:

Allen Youth Center
PO Box 507
Allen, SD 57714

We’re so thankful to everyone who generously sends donated supplies our way—your kindness makes a real difference!

08/12/2026

URGENT: Families need help following a severe hailstorm on the Pine Ridge Reservation.

Our phones have been ringing constantly with calls from people asking for assistance. The need is immediate, and our LEG team is ready to get to work—but we need emergency funds to make that response possible.

Your donation will help us act quickly and provide much-needed assistance to families affected by the storm. Every gift, no matter the amount, will help.

Please donate today: https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/one-spirit/become-a-one-spirit-supporter-today

If you’re unable to donate, please share this post. Helping us spread the word can make a real difference.

08/12/2026

🏀 YOUTH BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT! 🏀

The youth asked, helped organize it, and now it’s officially happening! Join us Saturday, August 29, at the Wita Najiin Basketball Court at the Allen Youth Center.

💰 $200 for each winning team!

Youth are responsible for creating and managing their own teams, so gather your players, choose your team, and get registered! Teams should have 5–10 players.

Youth can stop by the Allen Youth Center to pick up and complete their registration forms anytime we’re open:

📅 Tuesday–Saturday
⏰ 12:00–8:00 p.m.
📍 406 Water Tower Drive, Allen, SD

We’re excited to see the teams come together for a fun day of basketball, teamwork, and friendly competition. Stop by the Center for more information or to register!

08/11/2026

Come on over to AYC we've got the clay out and Randy is here playing Tina Turner... you don't want to miss this!