Our Organizations

This project has received initial funding from the South Dakota Council for Juvenile Services. Diversion Specialist Kelsi Vinger of the Brown County State’s Attorney’s office began community outreach in 2023 and partnered with Lara Nelson of the NSU Circle Program. Together, they began developing the Family Council Initiative and Leháŋl Wičhíčhaǧapi. At this time, the community expressed a desire for a holistic strategy that incorporates family and community systems prior to launching program. Thus, Lauren Nikolas of Wo’takuye Oyate was invited into the partnership due her work in developing a community cultural center for the Aberdeen area.