Generosity and Helping
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) has a strong tradition of helping others. Honoring the tradition of wóokiya (generosity and helping), the SMSC continually invests in its people, neighbors, local organizations, and Native tribes across the country.
The SMSC is one of the top philanthropists in Minnesota and is dedicated to helping build strong, healthy communities.
The Shakopee Mdewakanton community has become a regional philanthropic force.
– The Minnesota Star Tribune
SMSCgives Purpose
Making it a top priority to help others, the SMSC supports local communities across the state and beyond in a continued effort to embody Dakota values and share resources with others — now and for generations to come.
Outreach Programs
Empowering Community Members and team members to take part in the Dakota tradition of giving, the SMSC offers opportunities to assist worthy organizations and nonprofits in the local area. From organizing drives for clothing, food, and pet supplies to packing meals and building housing for local families, helping others has been a long-standing priority for the SMSC.
Team Member Outreach
As part of the tribe’s mission to be a good neighbor and good employer, the SMSC established a team member outreach program that organizes various volunteer opportunities in the local community. Each year, SMSC team members are allotted paid outreach hours to participate in SMSCgives events. The goal is to assist others through meaningful activities while building a stronger team across the SMSC.
Community Member Outreach
The Dakota Kinship program is an initiative led by SMSC Members to support Native organizations, local nonprofits, and other deserving causes. From creating Easter baskets for Elders and providing backpacks for students, to distributing food to employees and hosting Trunk or Treat events for Natives living in Scott County, the Dakota Kinship program coordinates volunteer opportunities for Community Members.
