A MOMENTOUS OCCASSION
A great accomplishment after a lot of hard work and generosity from others.
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Allen Youth Center
A Safe Haven for Lakota Youth
The AYC gives children a safe environment to spend time, do school work, receive a hot meal, and learn about Lakota values and traditions. The AYC is also home to a laundromat and food pantry for the community.
“Let us put our minds together and see what life we can make for our children”
- Lakota Chief, Sitting Bull
Discover a sanctuary of learning, growth, and recreation for Lakota youth at Allen Youth Center.
Our non-profit organization is dedicated to providing a safe environment where children can flourish, complete their schoolwork, enjoy nutritious meals, and immerse themselves in the rich traditions and values of the Lakota community.
AYC is more than just a youth center
—it's a beacon of hope in the heart of Allen, the poorest town in the entire country. Before One Spirit stepped in to help, this community faced immense challenges, with limited facilities, widespread poverty, and a lack of opportunities for the youth.
In 2015, One Spirit answered the call by constructing and opening the One Spirit Allen Youth Center.
Here, we offer not only meals and safety, but also engaging games, entertainment, and cultural education. Our comprehensive programs incorporate Lakota culture, computer literacy, essential life skills, clothing assistance, and more, empowering at-risk children and teenagers to thrive.
The impact of the Allen Youth Center has been nothing short of remarkable.
It has transformed into a vibrant hub for the entire community, hosting events and communal meals that bring people together. This inclusive approach benefits everyone, fostering improved nutrition and a stronger sense of shared values, boosting the spirits of citizens young and old.
Nestled within the Pine Ridge Reservation, the Center stands as a true oasis in a desert of need.
In fact, thanks to the remarkable efforts of students in New Jersey, we recently added a much-needed laundromat to our facility. This marks a milestone for Allen, as it now has its first community laundry facilities, providing a vital service to the community.
Join us in our mission to nurture and uplift Lakota youth.
With your support, we can continue to create a safe haven where children can escape the challenges they face at home and on the streets. Together, let's build a brighter future for the next generation of Lakota leaders.
Visit Allen Youth Center website
How We Make A Difference
We invite you to learn more about how we make an impact while also maintaining the rich culture of the Oglala Lakota people of Pine Ridge Reservation
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Lakota Family Sponsorships
Okini Sponsorship List
We strive to make life-changing impacts by providing necessary resources and support that will help those in need. Our team is passionate about helping families and making meaningful connections. Join us in our mission and make a difference in someone’s life today.
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