Coming Together in Service: First-Ever Mission Day at St. Joseph’s Indian School

Staff members proudly hold up their completed tie blanket, knowing that someone in need will cherish it.

At St. Joseph’s Indian School, the mission to serve Native American children and families has always been at the heart of everything we do. This year, that mission came to life in a brand-new way with the launch of our very first Mission Day — a powerful, hands-on opportunity for staff to come together and serve not only our students, but also our surrounding communities and reservations.

Held on August 5, Mission Day was more than just a new initiative. It was a day of unity, compassion and purpose.

Staff gathered to assemble hygiene kits, birthday boxes, welcome back kits and first aid kits, all of which will be delivered to people in need across reservation  communities. These kits are filled with practical items and thoughtful touches, offering a bit of comfort and care during times when it’s needed most.

Robyn, Executive Director of Child Services, reflected on the heart of the day:

“Our mission leaves a legacy that we can be proud to belong to,” she said. “Our mission calls each of us to join together and create a safe place for healing and growth to occur. It also calls us to surround each other with compassion and unity — through this, we become stronger.”

One of Mission Day’s most powerful aspects was how it created new bonds across departments and roles. Whether in education, residential or administration roles, everyone rolled up their sleeves side-by-side to serve a common purpose.

“This event is a great opportunity for staff to work together who normally wouldn’t,” shared Brian, Residential Coordinator at St. Joseph’s. “It shows what St. Joseph’s does at large. We continue to help those who are in need.”

Two staff members work together all while bonding over the mission of St. Joseph’s Indian School.

Joe, Mission Integration Director at St. Joseph’s, echoed the spirit of giving back:

“This is the first year that we are doing Mission Day. It is a day where staff can work together to help those in need and connect back to the mission of St. Joseph’s Indian School,” he said. “We have been so blessed at our school, and this is our time to give back.”

As the final boxes were sealed and prepared for delivery, the energy in the room was electric with pride and shared purpose. Mission Day was not just a success — it was a reflection of our values in action.

Now, with hearts full and hands ready, we look forward with excitement as we prepare to welcome our students back to campus. With renewed energy and purpose, we’re ready for another meaningful school year to begin.

Watch this event in action by watching this short reel on YouTube now.

Author: St. Joseph's Indian School

At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future.

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