CAMP LAUGH A LOT

Another special aspect of Camp Laugh A Lot is the important contributions that the Tribe, Tribal entities, and Tribal members make to ensure children get to go to Camp. KILI Radio, the largest Indian-owned radio station in America, announces Camp every summer and puts the call out for volunteer counselors throughout the Lakota Nation. The School stores all Camp equipment when not in use. Pinky’s Store, owned by a Tribal member, donates snacks. Parents, Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents, and other Tribal members volunteer as Camp Counselors. A Lakota Artist, Cecil Apple, designed the Camp Laugh A Lot logo (see front page).

Partnering with Schools

Schools are a critical partner for Camp Laugh A Lot. Campers travel in school buses from the Reservation to the tented campsite in Wind Cave National Park or Custer State Park. Sign up for Camp is organized through the schools. Camp Laugh A Lot places great value on this partnership with schools on the Reservation, without which Camp would not be possible.

Businesses and Invidividuals Get Involved in Camp

Every year, more businesses in towns surrounding the Reservation make important in-kind contributions to Camp. As just a few examples, Rockin R Rides donates trail rides for the campers, The Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary donates the tours of that 11,000 acre wild mustang reserve, All Seasons Sports and Screen Printing in Hot Springs discounts T-Shirts for Camp. Many others from around the country, both individuals and businesses, also help by donating their time and expertise. Without these and other in-kind contributions, Camp would not be possible.

Creating Positive Ties with Bordering Towns While Gaining Their Support

Local people in towns surrounding the Reservation also help make Camp successful by their many individual volunteer efforts and in-kind contributions. This helps Camp, but also helps to create positive ties between people. This is especially significant as, even today, racism and fear of the Reservation still exist in some border towns. The links Camp creates enhance awareness of needs and realities, and help dispel myths.