When people ask, “Is St. Joseph’s Indian School a legitimate charity?” one of the most meaningful answers comes from those who know our mission best: our longtime supporters. People who have been to campus and have seen the mission in real life and in real time.
That’s why we’re honored to announce that St. Joseph’s Indian School has been recognized with the 2026 Top-Rated Nonprofit Award from GreatNonprofits for the 10th consecutive year. This charity rating award is based on feedback from donors and supporters, and it serves as independent validation of the trust we’ve worked hard to earn from thousands of supporters who help us educate and care for Lakota (Sioux) children.
St. Joseph’s Builds Trust Through Transparency
For many donors, trust is earned through transparency and firsthand experience.
Rosa G., who has supported St. Joseph’s Indian School for more than 15 years, shared why she continues to give:
“It is important to me to know that the money I donate is used to improve the quality of life for the people receiving services from the organization. St. Joseph’s Indian School provides periodic reports on the school and student performance. It offers the opportunity to visit the facilities and even organizes meetings with donors where you can interact with the students.” — Rosa G.
Her review highlights something we value deeply at St. Joseph’s: accountability to the donors who make our mission possible.
St. Joseph’s Supporters See the Impact Firsthand
Many supporters choose to visit campus and see our programs in action.
Another long-term donor described how a campus visit strengthened their confidence in our organization’s work:
“I was able to see how supporting the school is truly making an impact on the students. They offer so much more than a quality education to support the children. The different activities they offer, such as the equestrian center, to give emotional help for those that need it is very impressive.” — Jeppard4
The programs that inspire donors are often the same programs that help students feel supported, engaged and at home.
“I like going to this school because of all the sports we get to do, along with the other activities provided for us to have fun.” — Carlito, St. Joseph’s student
Seeing donors and students match in this way proves we’re on the same page for what’s important. It’s an example of the thiyóšpaye — extended family — that extends beyond our campus.
What This Award Means
It means a lot! Earning the 2026 Top-Rated Nonprofit Award for 10 consecutive years is evidence of the relationships we’ve built with our donors and the confidence they have in our mission to help children grow strong in mind, body, heart and spirit.
Earning this award is a milestone worth celebrating, but the real success is measured in the brighter futures we’re creating for Lakota children. Every lesson learned, every tradition preserved and every dream pursued is possible because of supporters like you.
Philámayaye — thank you!
Learn more about other awards and recognition
St. Joseph’s Indian School has earned at stjo.org/awards.
Congratulations on receiving this award
for 10 consecutive years. Thank you for helping these children to achieve positive steps toward their future. You do this through education and emotional support. Thank you for immersing
them in their culture and language which
instills pride in their heritage. I pray God will continue to bless you and your children as you continue Jesus message of loving service.
Thank you so much!! We appreciate your prayers and support. It’s a blessing to do this work, and it’s only possible thanks to people like you who help make it happen!
I’m so happy to see my donations are going to the children and those who are in charge making sure that every dollar is spent to support the children!
Thank you St Joseph’s!