We are excited to announce the launch of  our “Team Adolescents Towards Excellence ” Mentoring Program, also known as ‘TATE.’

Native American youth ages 9-12 have been matched with high school students for six Wednesday evening sessions from July 11-August 15, 2012. Students will share a meal and engage in recreational, community and cultural activities. There is no cost to participate in the program, and adolescents who may need extra support before entering middle school are encouraged to participate.

The high school drop-out rate among Native American youth in Rapid City is well above the national average, and the TATE program will allow adolescent youth to foster a positive relationship with older students who are working hard and staying in school. 'TATE' is also the Lakota word for 'wind.'

The program curriculum was designed by social work students at Oglala Lakota College, and high school students enrolled in the Rapid City Area School’s SOLUTIONS program serve as teen mentors.
Parental consent is required for all participants. For more information or to register a youth for next year's program, contact Holly at 605.786.5256 or email hsortland@projectrespect.org.