Sina Okigwa-Paints Robe exists to strengthen the wellness of Lakota people through cultural education, mentorship, healing, and land-based experiences. Our programs are created, governed, and carried by Lakota relatives for youth, families, and communities in Rapid City and across South Dakota.
We bring young people together with horses, the drum, Lakota language, traditional games, food, ceremony, and the land. Through horse camp, singing and drum instruction, buffalo harvests, young women’s coming-of-age teachings, lacrosse and hand games, and Wednesday cultural nights, young people learn in relationship with relatives who carry these teachings.
We also walk beside individuals and families through healing, recovery, grief, and reconnection. Our work grows from the understanding that culture is not an addition to wellness. Culture creates belonging, identity, responsibility, and a path home.
Sina Okigwa-Paints Robe was founded by Dr. Monique Apple and Delaney Apple after years of serving tribal communities through behavioral health, cultural advising, research, education, singing, mentorship, and community programming. The organization gives that work a Lakota-governed home where it can continue across generations.
Your gift supports culturally grounded programs, meals, supplies, transportation, horses, and the people who make each gathering possible.