About Us
Communities That Care Coalition
VISION
For Cheyenne River to be a place where our youth are healthy, culturally grounded, confident in their identity, and equipped with the fundamental skills for success in life.
MISSION
Bring together schools, families, youth, and the community to improve youth lives.
Community Owned & Operated
We actively welcome and value the input, guidance, and participation of all community members, fostering collaboration and shared ownership. Our CTC Coalition is truly for the community, by the community.
Data Driven & Outcome Focused
Guided by the insights from our Youth Prevention Needs Assessment, we listen directly to students to understand their experiences across family, school, community, and peer/self sectors. This allows us to focus on meaningful outcomes that address their needs effectively.
Proven to Work
The Communities That Care (CTC) Framework, developed by the University of Washington's Social Development Research Group, uses prevention science to identify risks and strengthen protective factors. Proven programs guided by the Social Development Strategy create lasting, positive impacts on youth.
At the heart of our success lies a strong foundation built on three core principles of the Communities That Care (CTC) Framework: Prevention Science, Tested and Effective Programs, and the Social Development Strategy. Here's how these principles guide our efforts and create meaningful change in our community.
.01 Prevention Science
A research-based, proven public health strategy that strengthens protective factors in the lives of youth while reducing risk factors. It’s the only framework that simultaneously lowers risks and increases protection, creating a balanced and effective approach to prevention.
.02 Tested & Effective
Not all prevention strategies are created equal, and even proven programs may not work universally in every community. Our coalition thoughtfully researches and selects programs that address our specific needs while honoring and aligning with our community's culture.
We implement this step of the framework by researching and selecting proven programs that not only address and lower the identified risks, but also align with the unique needs and values of our community. The programs we focus on to lower risk include Positive Indian Parenting, the Natural Helpers Program, and the Second Step Curriculum.
.03 Social Development Strategy
This is the protective-building aspect of prevention science. Research by the Center for CTC shows that fostering opportunities, teaching skills, and recognizing youth achievements strengthen bonds with adults, promoting healthy behaviors and long-term well-being.
We incorporate the Social Development Strategy (SDS) into every aspect of our work, whether collaborating with partners, youth, or adults. Our efforts include training staff from Title I programs, summer school, Oyate Connections, and Sacred Heart Family Violence. Additionally, we partner with schools to host monthly activities and have introduced the Good Relative Award, recognizing K-12 students who embody Lakota values in their daily lives.
Built on Lakota Values
The CTC Coalition strives to embody the seven Lakota values in both its work and daily practices, ensuring these guiding principles are reflected in every action and decision.
Waóhola
Respect
We respect those who have come before us, and work to include all generations in this work for positive youth development.
Wówičakȟe
Honesty & Truth
We are honest with ourselves about what our community and our youth face, and do not overlook signs of trouble.
Wóksape
Wisdom
We practice wisdom by using this research-based, CTC process, to prevent youth health risks. We work to show our kids a different path for their future.
Wówauŋšila
Caring & Compassion
We know that we are interacting with impressionable youth, and stories from all backgrounds. We work to make sure everyone feels heard and cared for.
Wóuŋšiič’iye
Humility
We work to understand what our kids are experiencing in their lives. With humility, we are not too proud to ask for help from others who are also working towards positive youth development.
Wóčhékiye
Prayer
We pray for the well-being of our youth, that they can be grounded in their culture, and for the health of all future generations.
Wówačhaŋtognake
Generosity
We work to serve our community and provide positive results for hope.