South Dakota: The Land of Infinite Variety™
THIS PROGRAM IS NOT OPERATING FOR THE 2021 SEASON. PLEASE CHECK BACK ON THIS PAGE FOR FUTURE UPDATES IN REGARDS TO THIS PROGRAM.
Highlights
Known as the “Land of Infinite Variety,” you’ll experience everything from the cultural impact of Native Americans to the natural beauty of the Badlands.
- Explore the sprawling prairies and rich farmland that define South Dakota’s landscapes
- Support trail maintenance or reforestation efforts in a national forest
- Learn about the South Dakota Native American population, their cultural significance and the
issues facing them today - Spend an afternoon in the Badlands, hiking and hunting for fossils and rocks
- Combine history and sightseeing while you visit some of western South Dakota’s most famous national parks, landmarks and monuments
On This Program you will...
Discover how Native American populations – past and present – have influenced every aspect of life here in South Dakota. From the sacred Black Hills to the wonders of the Badlands, Native Americans have spent generations living in harmony with the land here. Your objective on this program will be learning about Native American culture, and how to be a good environmental steward so we can care for these lands for many generations to come in collaboration with those whose ancestors once lived here. Explore the intersection of history, culture and the environment in a variety of ways as you learn more about your personal leadership style.
Program Type:
Environmental Stewardship
Your Adventure is Just Around the Corner!
Community Service
Tackle many of the environmental challenges facing natural habitats in South Dakota, as well as the people who depend on them. Contribute to trail maintenance and make sure that wild areas are accessible to all travelers and protected for all local wildlife. You will also help with reforestation efforts, focusing on restoring native tree species in the region. Then, help with sustainable infrastructure development on Pine Ridge Reservation. Support the Oglala Sioux Tribe on the 8th largest reservation in the U.S. through various projects as you learn about Native American history and culture.
Immersive Learning
You will have two major focus areas for immersive learning during your time in South Dakota. On one side, dive into Native American culture, history and current events. Hear from guest speakers and local tribal leaders, and confront America’s past and present treatment of recognized tribes in the United States. On another side, develop an eye for the environmental issues facing the state and its many varied ecosystems. Then, see how the convergence of human and wild issues creates unique challenges – and opportunities – for those who live here.
Adventure
Experience the Badlands, famous for their sloped rock formations, sparse vegetation and clay soils, as well as their unique historical and modern-day importance to tribes the region. You’ll have a chance to wander through part of the Badlands on a daytime hike. Then, take your adventure to the next level by tackling a ropes course, going stand-up paddleboarding or canoeing, and biking through the sprawling prairie land of South Dakota.
Dates & Tuition
South Dakota
The Land of Infinite Variety™
10-Day Program
| 2021 Dates |
|---|
| NOT OPERATING IN 2021 |
Tuition Includes All In-Country Expenses Including:
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Ground transportation
- Lodging
- 3 meals per day
- Professional full-time staff and experts
- 24/7 parent support hotline during the program
- Evacuation insurance
- Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
- Pre-departure materials and support
- Educational materials
