 |
 |
 |
REACH
Programs
|
For copies of the REACH Agreement please call Yvonne at the main office (413) 623-8991
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Program
Initiated in 1991, the primary goal of the REACH Program is to enable teens to develop leadership skills through a service-oriented experience, based in a Lakota Sioux Native American community in South Dakota. The services our teens will provide may involve physical labor, humanitarian service, or a combination of both, and are designed to heighten the importance of volunteer service for the benefit of others. The REACH Program incorporates visits to pow-wows, Badlands National Park, Wounded Knee, Mount Rushmore, and the Crazy Horse Monument. Located in the southwestern corner of the Cheyenne River Reservation, participants will stay in the Red Scaffold community center. Red Scaffold is a small town consisting of 15 -30 homes, churches, cemeteries, and playgrounds with a population of approximately 100 - 150 people. REACH groups will also partner with the Sioux YMCA located in the town of Dupree.
The REACH program requires a high degree of commitment, as each participant will be challenged mentally, physically and socially. Keep in mind that this program is very different from the in-camp experience at Chimney Corners Camp and Camp Becket. By the very nature of the experience campers must be able to exercise a higher degree of decision-making and accept greater responsibility for their own personal actions. Only the most mature, responsible teen should apply.
|
|
|
Accommodation & Itinerary
While on the reservation, REACH participants will live and prepare their meals in the community center, with simple living conditions. Individuals applying to this program should be prepared for very hard work and clean, but basic living conditions with minimal amenities. Visiting this Native American community will be an extremely unique, educational and rewarding experience in a very different culture. Former REACH participants have stated that visiting this area is not unlike visiting another country because of the significant cultural contrasts to “typical” life in the United States. REACH campers will provide a day camp program for the children of the communities, and participate in a variety of service projects scheduled throughout the reservation. The day camp will be the primary activity for the village children this summer. Historically, we know that there are a number of unexpected volunteer and cultural opportunities that become available. Therefore, we keep our schedule flexible to take advantage of these opportunities. Campers will also travel to a number of pow-wows while on the reservation.
All REACH participants will take part in two days of orientation at the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA prior to departing on their journey. During this time, REACH participants will develop group-building skills and learn how to be ambassadors for the YMCA. The group will discuss the basics of travel as well as potential cross-cultural situations. They will become acquainted with fellow group members and discuss program goals and regulations, thus setting the standards for the success of their adventure. Participants will review how to pack their luggage, communicate with another culture, lead cabin chat, and effectively participate in a community service project. |
|
|
|
|
Communication
Due to the nature of the terrain in South Dakota, REACH participants will be in isolated areas at times. Our leaders carry cell phones for emergencies. It is important to remember that this does not guarantee immediate communication from the field to our office. Radio and cell phone transmission can be unpredictable and dependant on terrain, atmospheric conditions and other variables. There may be occasions when we have no phone access with our group for over 24 hours. However, we require all REACH leaders to call the Youth Travel Program Director at the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA office a minimum of once a week and when moving from one location to another.
|
|
| |
Closing
REACH participants will learn the history, geography, and culture of a Native American community, while strengthening their community service, camping, and travel knowledge. Participants will have the opportunity to learn and practice techniques of positive leadership in group situations, while clarifying personal and societal values through discussions and activities. Good physical health and a positive attitude are essential. Independence, responsibility, achievement, fun - these qualities, and more, are the essence of the REACH Program.
|
|
|
|
|
