Watch: A Year of Wóokiya (The 2025 #SMSCgives Recap Video)

Every year, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) reaffirms a simple truth: We are stronger when we lift each other up. Through #SMSCgives, we support our neighbors, communities, and partners across Minnesota and beyond through wóokiya, the Dakota value of generosity and helping.

From essential needs like food and housing, to opportunities for families, youth, and animals, #SMSCgives is committed to creating meaningful, lasting change. And thanks to the dedication of our Community Members and team members, our impact continues to grow.

Throughout the year, #SMSCgives collaborates with local schools, nonprofits, food shelves, shelters, and service organizations to respond to community needs as they arise. One of our greatest strengths is the ability to mobilize quickly—providing resources and hands-on help when and where it’s needed, always rooted in compassion, generosity, and service.

From packing thousands of backpacks filled with school supplies…

To assembling meals that nourish students and families across the region…

To collecting pet food and essentials for animals waiting for their forever homes…

To partnering with organizations that build stable housing and strengthen neighborhoods…

To distributing healthy produce and proteins to team members….

#SMSCgives focuses on meeting real needs for real people.

These initiatives strengthen partnerships, build community, and create opportunities for those who need them most.

Whether we’re distributing fresh produce during food-sharing events, hosting drives to support local nonprofits, or volunteering alongside our neighbors, #SMSCgives is driven by a shared belief in generosity and responsibility to one another.

Every donation, every packed box, every hour of service—these actions create ripples of hope. And together, they form a powerful story: one of resilience, compassion, and commitment to making life better for all.

As we reflect on another year, we celebrate the many hands and hearts that make this work possible. And we look forward to continuing our mission—honoring Dakota values, uplifting our community, and helping build a brighter future for generations to come.

Learn more about #SMSCgives and the SMSC’s philanthropic initiatives at shakopeedakota.org/philanthropy.