College spring break is often dedicated to a destination like a national basketball tournament or perhaps a beach resort. Students from three colleges—Grand Valley State (Michigan), Central Michigan University and Valparaiso University (Indiana), chose to spend their spring break serving others at Tree of Life in Mission, South Dakota.

Tree of Life is a ministry on the Rosebud Reservation that provides several services including: The Warm Welcome—a warm meal served daily, food pantry and fellowship, Tree of Life Boutique—offers low priced clothing and household items, construction ministry—repairs are made to homes where residences need assistance with repair for their health and well being.

Twenty-two college students spent the week making a difference to the people of the Rosebud Reservation reports Rev. Linda Baldock, Tree of Life board member.  “Instead of heading to a beach, these 22 folks chose to come to the Rosebud to make a difference!”

The students spent some time learning about the Lakota values, dance and songs, a sweat lodge and star stories.

Students had the chance to interact with the staff at Tree of Life and many of the residents across the 884,000 acres and 24,000 enrolled members of the Rosebud Agency.

“The biggest difference they are making is within themselves, learning about another culture and way of in the United States,” said Baldock. “They learn about traditional Lakota values, dance and songs, a sweat lodge, and star stories. Mixed with all of that, of course, is working with the Tree of Life, Lakota staff in the Warm Welcome, the co-op and thrift store. 

Students reported that the week was intensive, challenging and meaningful. When asked what they liked, one student said, "Hearing the stories, so many interesting stories!"  Some of the challenges students reported included, a student who was an animal lover, tried to save a badly injured cat but learned the reality of animal care in rural areas.  All students reported a great experience and were glad to share in the Lakota way, if only for a few days.

Tree of Life loves its volunteers. If you would like to volunteer at Tree of Life contact Linda Garriott, Tree of Life director, by e-mail or call 605-856-4266.

Tree of Life Ministry from Dakotas UMC on Vimeo.