Photos and info courtesy of Robert Steppling.
This summer, the Baltimore Dakota Learning Camps (BDLC) once again brought children, families, and volunteers together for weeks of learning, culture, and faith-filled connection across South Dakota and Minnesota. Three camps were hosted in partnership with local Dakota communities: the Sisseton Learning Camp in Roberts County, the Ihanktonwan Learning Camp in Marty, and the Pejuhutazizi Family Learning Camp in Granite Falls. Each camp featured a blend of STEM exploration, arts and crafts, reading, storytelling, cultural experiences, and spiritual growth—made possible through the deepening bonds between Baltimore Presbytery leaders and their Dakota partners.
The Sisseton Learning Camp welcomed 26 children to four days of science experiments, LEGOs, storytelling, movement games, and Dakota art, capped with shared worship and meals. Despite COVID-19 cutting the final day short, staff ensured children received tote bags with their projects, books, and gifts, while the partnerships with Dakota friends grew stronger. In Marty, the Ihanktonwan camp hosted 25 children, where a later daily start and new arts, crafts, and outdoor activities kept campers engaged and well-fed. Strong community support, especially from Marty Indian School, made for a successful week despite weather challenges and the strain of travel and housing costs. At Pejuhutazizi, 18 campers explored STEM, math games, storytelling, and a new Environmental and Cultural program for older youth. Each day began with smudging and prayer, and the week included cultural teachings, a pizza and kickball night, and the chance to participate in the Upper Sioux Wacipi (Powwow).
Across all three camps, successes included creative teaching, strong local hospitality, new and returning staff working together, and meaningful cross-cultural exchange. Children delighted in robotics, circuits, and crafts; staff deepened their understanding of Dakota traditions through song, story, and ceremony; and both communities came away enriched by shared meals, worship, and fellowship. While challenges such as illness, weather, and rising costs tested the teams, the spirit of collaboration remained strong. The 2025 camps reflected the heart of BDLC’s mission: building bridges of faith and friendship through learning, culture, and love.
