The LAKOTA or OGLALA SIOUX NATION of Pine Ridge in South Dakota is the 8th largest Native American reservation in the USA. While their numbers are small, the Lakota people have a rich history and culture, and have produced many famous leaders, warriors and medicine men: Sitting Bull, Crazy Horse and Black Elk being among them. A large section of the Pine Ridge Reservation is part of the Badlands National Park, containing many sites that are sacred to the Oglala Lakota. Nearby are the famous Black Hills and Mount Rushmore. But despite the stark beauty of the landscape and rich history of the Lakota people, Pine Ridge is the poorest of all Native American reservations with many families having no electricity, telephones, running water, or sewers. A visit to the Lakota Nation is an eye-opening experience where you can witness incredible beauty and immense poverty at the same time.

SAGE OFFERS a deeply impactful service learning trip to the Lakota Nation. Experience the incredible beauty of the landscape while working with reservation communities to address their needs. Help plant windbreak and shade trees and build solar heaters for families in need. Reflect upon current challenges facing the Lakota people and what changes can be made to improve conditions on their reservation. Learn how Lakota language and culture is being preserved through generations. SAGE partners with the award-winning community development organization Trees, Water & People to put the power of nature - the warmth of the sun, the power of the wind, the shelter of trees - to work for Native Americans. These solutions are sustainable, economically beneficial, green, and celebrate respect for Mother Earth.