Boys and Girls Clubs in Indian Country

The youth of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Three Affiliated Tribes in Fort Berthold, North Dakota are constantly exposed to diverse cultures, history and languages. While the Three Tribes of Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation have been living amongst each other for many years, they still maintain separate tribal identities on their 1 million acre homeland.

"Our youth are lucky because they grow up appreciating differences in people. Our Clubs support this ideal by offering a variety of cultural programs to our youth. Through this education, our kids understand the quality of uniqueness but also learn of how coming together make people stronger," explains Executive Director, Jarret Baker.

Weekly cultural nights are celebrated at each of the 6 Clubs. Often, elders are included for seasonal storytelling or to lead Club members in preparing traditional meals for family get-together nights.

Partnerships Expand Services
Collaborations with local groups and non-profits have been integral in offering a variety of cultural experiences. Casey Family Programs sponsors a singing group that visits the Clubs and teaches the kids traditional songs. In the summer months, cultural camps are offered and partnerships with the Fort Berthold community college, Fort Berthold Housing, the tribal Social Services program and Circle of Life, an alcohol & drug treatment program, help fill the schedule and contribute to the volunteer and staff roster. Last summer, a language immersion camp was held and co-sponsored by the college.

The Arts, the Great Outdoors and Fun
A dance troupe has been formed by Charles Moran, Cultural Coordinator. The ages of the 15 members range from 10 to 16. The I-Ki-Pi Native American Dance Troupe performs at local schools and outlying communities and has even traveled to Montana, South Dakota and Canada. "It's fun going around and sharing our dancing with others," explained Cedar, a 13-year-old Jingle Dress Dancer.

Beading classes are offered to interested kids as they learn about making the traditional outfits for such dancing - fancy shawl, grass dance and jingle dress, traditional.

Last year, about 140 kids had a "Buffalo Pasture" experience in the Badlands. They set up 12 teepees and camped with the Buffalo for 2 nights and 3 days. "I enjoyed learning more about our culture and it was fun putting up the teepees," summarized Brendan, a 16-years-old Club member.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Three Affiliated Tribes continue to celebrate the community's diverse culture and allows Club members to see the world as A Positive Place. For further information about the Clubs or programs, email Jarret Baker.