Supporting Families and the Communities of
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives.
Lifeline of Hope for our youth.
About Waciyanpi
Our Mission
Honor and protect our heritage by empowering youth and families through traditional practices, cultural engagement, and meaningful connections. We are committed to raising awareness, preventing harm, and providing a safe, supportive environment where the teachings of our ancestors guide us. Through cultural activities, advocacy, and community-led initiatives, Waciyanpi aims to inspire healing, pride, and hope for future generations.
Our Organization
Waciyanpi means "Being Depended on"
We are a Native led grass roots organization located on Crow Creek Sioux Reservation.
Waciyanpi stands as a beacon of cultural resilience, community strength, and healing within Indigenous communities, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Dakota and Lakota peoples. Named to reflect the spirit of being “relied upon,” Waciyanpi embodies the responsibility and trust that our communities place in us to safeguard our heritage, protect our youth, and support families.
Our organization is dedicated to promoting awareness and prevention of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) and restoring the balance within our communities. We do this through meaningful engagement in cultural practices, such as traditional hand games, that not only preserve our heritage but also offer youth a positive path away from drugs, alcohol, and other negative influences. By bringing tribes together, we aim to foster unity, build resilience, and strengthen identity.
Guided by the wisdom of our ancestors, Waciyanpi advocates for a return to traditional medicines and healing practices as powerful tools to support survivors and families affected by MMIP. Our vision is one of hope, where Indigenous youth are empowered, traditions are celebrated, and communities stand strong and united. Through ongoing efforts in education, advocacy, and cultural programming, Waciyanpi is committed to making a lasting impact for generations to come.
Crow Creek Sioux Reservation is located in South-central South Dakota on the Eastern bank of the Missouri River, what is now Lake Sharpe and Francis Case.
There are approximately 137,000 acres of tribal and trust land. 4800 enrolled members.
Meet the Team
Each member of our team has been personally impacted by the experience of having a Missing or Murdered Indigenous Relative.
Nobody was fighting for the cause of Justice for our Native people. So we decided to work together, get organized and make a difference!
We are from this community, we live in this community and we are committed to raise awareness and help the families and our community to heal from the trauma of a missing or murdered relative.
In Waciyanpi, we're reclaiming our traditional values to work not from a hurt place, but from places of love and support for one another. We are taking care of those who are most vulnerable.
Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
This is your Team section. It's a great place to introduce your team and talk about what makes it special, such as your culture or work philosophy. Don't be afraid to illustrate personality and character to help users connect with your team.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS WHO SUPPORT OUR WORK
We are appreciative of local agencies who support our education awareness efforts as well as our Search and Rescue efforts when a relative goes missing.
