Youth Programs
We believe our youth are not only the future, but are leaders, culture bearers, and changemakers in the present. Young people play a central role in planning, organizing, and leading efforts that reduce stigma around mental health, prevent substance use, and strengthen cultural identity.
Guided by the principle, “Nothing about them without them,” we meet youth where they are both developmentally and culturally. We create affirming spaces that build identity, belonging, and connection, which are powerful protective factors against the challenges they face.
Our approach aims to break cycles of stigma, disconnection, and underinvestment by nurturing youth leadership and uplifting Lakota culture as a foundation for wellness and community strength.
Throughout the 2022-2023-2024 school years, the students, staff, and administration at Cheyenne-Eagle Butte School have wholeheartedly embraced and benefited from the events and activities that the Keya Foundation provides.
​The youth of our community deserve the best and Keya Foundation has the potential to collaborate with all other organizations to make that happen.
Natural Helpers Program
The Natural Helpers Program is a peer-support and leadership initiative that builds on the natural support networks already present in schools. Students receive training to strengthen leadership, empathy, and communication skills while helping create a positive, supportive school environment through school-based activities and events.
Following a successful pilot with sixth-grade students at Cheyenne-Eagle Butte School during the 2024–2025 school year, the program continued during the 2025–2026 school year and will continue into the 2026–2027 school year.
Good Relatives Circle
The Good Relative Circle (GRC) is a youth leadership and community engagement program that helps students build confidence, leadership, teamwork, and cultural identity while making a positive impact in their school and community. Through GRC, youth develop relationships, explore issues affecting young people, participate in community activities, and help shape projects based on their interests and ideas. Established in May 2025, the program continues to provide meaningful opportunities for youth leadership and engagement.
Classroom Connections
Through our Classroom Connections efforts, we partner with Cheyenne-Eagle Butte and Windswept Academy Schools to provide culturally grounded, engaging activities for students. Highlights include the monthly Good Relative Award, self-care workshops, tipi teachings, and interactive team-building activities. Together, these experiences foster leadership, strengthen relationships, celebrate student achievements, and support overall well-being.
Help us do better!
We want to hear from you! Answer our short survey to help us improve!
Become a volunteer!
Spend meaningful time in our community by supporting programs that uplift youth, culture, and wellness. Whether you help at events, share your skills, or simply show up for our youth, your time makes a difference. Join us in building a stronger, more connected Cheyenne River.
What are youth interested in?
Through an anonymous survey of students in grades 7–12, we asked what skills they’re most interested in learning. Here’s what they shared:
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Cultural: 39% (arts, language, stewardship)
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Hands-On Skills: 37% (car repair, cooking, gardening)
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Social-Emotional Wellness: 31% (relationships, stress management)
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Personal Development: 24% (financial literacy, time management)
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Career Skills: 20% (public speaking, leadership)
These insights help guide youth programming that’s relevant and empowering.