Volunteering at the Cheyenne River Reservation - Simply Smiles

I will be joining my cousin Sam and a group from his church in Washington on a volunteering trip to the Cheyenne River Reservation. While I will be funding my own flights to the USA, there is a cost of approximately $1,900 NZD per person to participate in this opportunity. Here is some information about the trip:

The colonisation of America caused displacement of Native Americans as well as many deaths through violence and the introduction of new diseases. Adding to this, 130 years ago the American government created legislation which displaced many Native Americans from desirable land in the southeast to sparse parts of the country, such as the Cheyenne River Reservation.

As a result of this, there is still today a sense of hopelessness in these communities. Poverty in these areas includes unemployment rates of around 80%. This also affects mental health, with around 3 attempted suicides per week.

The primary objective of this trip is reconciliation. Through youth development and community building programs it is hoped that perspectives and lives of people living on the reservation can be changed. Simply Smiles says: "The holistic nature of the Simply Smiles approach is proving to be the only effective means of changing life on the Reservation. Your presence in this complicated, tragic, and beautiful place is nothing less than vital."

Over a week's stay at the Cheyenne River Reservation myself and the group will participate in a range of activities in order to contribute to the well-being of the community. This will include helping to run a summer camp for the youth on the reservation during the day, and hosting town-wide meals in the evenings to engage with adults in the community.

I would love if you could donate towards me embarking on this amazing trip! I will be taking part in a FitBit step challenge which Sam has set up where people can donate so much for every 10,000 steps I take between 1st March and 30th April. Alternatively, any small donation is appreciated!

The fundraising goal for our group (of 10 people) is $12,000 USD, $7,164 USD of which has been raised already (as of 1st March). Every little bit counts!