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About the Camp
The Ihanktonwan Learning Camp was initiated in 2010 as a partnership between the First Presbyterian Church of Cumberland and the Cedar and Greenwood Churches, Native American Presbyterian Churches located in southeastern South Dakota. It is held in Marty, South Dakota. Highland Presbyterian Church joined this partnership in 2023.
Our mission is to provide basic educational opportunities for four days during the summer in order to prepare students for returning to school in the fall with a renewed interest in learning and motivated to continue their studies. During our time there we try to give the children a sense of encouragement, love, and affirmation. In addition, our partners have asked us to include spiritual teaching which they oversee. We also invite local native community members to share their knowledge of Dakota traditions and welcome local counselors to speak with the children about problems they may face such as bullying, addiction, and depression. We come not just to teach but to learn.
Camp dates for volunteers include some field trips after camp during the week and a full day of sightseeing on Friday to visit surrounding historic and scenic areas. The locations are chosen by the volunteers.
Ihanktonwan Learning Camp: July 25 – August 1, 2026
Camp Format
We will be holding our camp at the Marty Indian School. The camp day will begin at 10:00 AM and run until 2:30 PM, Monday through Thursday, with lunch and a snack provided. All children who are entering first to 7 th grade in the fall are welcome to participate in Math, Reading, Music, Art, Science and Movement, all taught with fun in mind!
Opportunities for Building Fellowship and Mutual Understanding
There will be many opportunities to get to know our Dakota Presbytery and Marty community partners during the week. We will worship and share fellowship with the congregations from the historic Cedar and Greenwood Churches on Sunday morning. Singing hymns in the Dakota language from the Dakota Odowan hymnal is a highlight of the service. During the week members of the community are invited to join us for evening meals and to help with the camp. This is a time for spiritual learning and sharing with our volunteers and members of the Ihanktonwan community.
Volunteer Requirements
We are seeking high school youths, college students, and adults of all ages. Youths must have completed the 8th grade by the end of the current school year. Special exceptions MAY be made for mature younger volunteers accompanied by a close relative.
Some background working with children and a desire to form relationships with others is extremely helpful for a successful camp experience.
Although the camp is sponsored by the Presbyterian Church (USA), church membership is not required to be part of this experience. The camp fee of $1,000 can be subsidized by participating in different fundraising opportunities. Also, any Presbyterian youths may access additional monies by applying for the Turner Youth Scholarship through the Presbytery of Baltimore.
Training
All staff members will receive training to prepare them fully for participation in the camp. Training is mandatory and includes information about cultural diversity, child protection, and relationship building. For training dates, see the application.
Accommodations and Transportation
Volunteers will stay at the Fort Randall Casino Hotel located approximately 10 miles from the Marty Indian School. All meals are provided during the week with the exception of travel days. Volunteers should bring spending money for food and any souvenirs they wish to purchase on travel days. The amount recommended is $75 to $100. An ATM is available in a nearby town.
Opportunities for Learning, Travel, and Fun
In order to learn about the rich history and culture of the Ihanktonwan (Yankton Sioux) tribe, various field trip opportunities to explore the local area are available throughout the week. The Dignity of Earth and Sky statue and the Akta Lakota Museum at the St. Joseph’s Indian School in Chamberlain are possible sites to visit.
Contact Ihanktonwan Learning Camp
ABOUT US – HISTORY – MISSION – CAMPS – CONTACT US
