Natural Helpers Program
The Natural Helpers Program is a peer-support initiative that builds on the natural support networks already present in schools. Students often turn to trusted friends and adults when facing challenges. This program equips those peer leaders with the tools to recognize signs of distress, offer meaningful support, and connect others with appropriate resources.
Through training, students develop leadership, empathy, and resilience, while helping to create a more supportive school environment that actively addresses mental health needs through school based activities and events.
We successfully piloted the program during the 2024–2025 school year with sixth-grade students at Cheyenne-Eagle Butte School, and the results were highly encouraging. Based on the positive response, we will continue and expand the program into the upcoming school year. The Natural Helpers Program is supported by The Keya Foundation, C-EB Schools, and the Scared Heart Center.
What Youth Say
Natural Helpers helped me figure out that I enjoy helping people.
I like being apart of natural helpers, it's something fun to do. It also teaches you things about empathy and our culture.
Students stay rooted in Lakota values by supporting the C-EB Powwow, decorating trees for community events, learning traditional food prep, and harvesting cansasa. These activities foster cultural pride, community care, and a strong sense of identity.
Youth build confidence and connection through activities like Natural Helpers trainings, morning announcements, “You Got Clipped!” recognitions, and the Youth Leadership Conference. Projects such as locker notes, Valentine’s “Love Yourself” bags, and school fundraisers promote peer support and wellness.
The best thing that I learned about is the Cansasa Harvest because we got to learn about traditional tobacco.
The best thing I learned about myself is that I am kind. We learned that from working with other people.