St. Joseph's Indian School

The school provides these wonderful Lakota children with all the necessary tools and encouragement so they can perhaps fulfill their dreams and move ahead in life. Hard work is the necessary requirement to make that happen as everything they desire will not happen without it. You work very hard and care so much that they have a chance to be who they want to be. A true blessing for the kids for sure. But I know that all those good wishes are a beautiful sentiment but life taught me well to know you have to put your money where your mouth is. That's how it really works well. I pray for your success and hope God gives you all his blessings for all of at St. Joseph's school. Sincerely, Steve Turney

I have been donating to them since I was 16 yo ( I’m now 65!). I feel their mission is one of compassion and education for those they serve. It has been my honor to give to St Joe’s! Keep up your wonderful work.

My father was a faithful supporter of your school and truly enjoyed receiving the gifts from the children. It is with a heavy heart that I have to say he passed away last year. I have recently made a donation in his honor and will continue to do so for as long as I can to help support the school and children.

Our mother donated to St. Joseph’s school for many years. She considered herself part of the Native American culture although she didn’t have any indigenous dna. When she passed away, six years ago, my four sisters and I donate to St. Joseph’s school on the anniversary of her passing every May. I’m hoping to visit the Pine Ridge Reservation this Summer and stop at the school. It would be an honor.

St Josephs with their full heart everyday, is helping these children find their way home.

My mother, Edna Faye Nelson, was born in 1920 to the then Indian Agent, my grandfather Nelson and Grace Nelson, his wife. She told me they took her to Rushville, Nebraska for the birth. I wouuld like to find out if this is true. She also told me the Indian woman who took care of her was named WINONA, which is my name as well. Is there any way to verify this information. I am sincerely Grateful for any any information you can help with. Sincerely, Winona Grace Strong. redwingsdaughter@yahoo.com. I will be a donor.

Just want to share why I started donations.
One day I randomly started thinking of St Joseph. Do not know why he popped into my thoights.
The next day I received my very first solicitation in the mail.
May be just a coincidence, but I thought I should start donating.
I will continue to support St. Joe's as long as I am able to.

I don’t know much about St. Joseph’s, but I wish you wouldn’t spend your money sending out gift packages. Thanks, but no thanks!

I am happy and honored to be a part of supporting the St. Joseph's Indian School. The work you do with and for the Lakota children is amazing. These kids now should have a spark of hope for a better future! I also enjoy the pictures and newsletters to track their progress. A bonus has been learning more about their culture and beliefs. I admire the fact that the school is helping to keep their culture alive for them and that the school teaches many of the basics to do so. In addition, I have enjoyed using the beautiful tote bags I have received from the school.
Continue the great work you are doing with and for the Lakota children and their families!

Ive been helping St.Joseph for awhile now. It is a Great Spirit God send to the Native American people. The organization truely cares about the children and families. I know thier ancestors are looking down with great pride in whats being done. One can only hope the children grow up and seek a position that will change the world in to a better place one that lives in harmony with nature like it was long ago.

Mary was so kind to me on the phone this morning. I set up a small monthly donation for the children at St. Joseph's, wish I could give more.
I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season. Much love.

I have a key chain from St.Joseph's Indian School.

My how times flies.

Have a great Saturday and Sunday.

It breaks my heart to hear negative comments form folks who have no personal knowledge of the great work being done at St. Joseph's Indian School. We have been donors for many years following an on site visit to the school. What drew me to the campus was an effort to learn more about my roots. My grandmother was a full blood Lakota Sioux and a member of the Lower Brule Tribe. I wish that all the people who bad mouth this organization could get first hand knowledge of the wonderful work they do. I could write a book about the positive things I have seen over the years. We will once again be attending the annual Pow Wow this year. It does my heart good to witness the joy in the eyes and actions of all the children! This broken world needs more places like this.

I am thankful to God for having found St. Joseph's Indian School as a wonderful charity to support. I give a set amount of money automatically each month, and make additional donations when I can. I support several charities, but St. Jo's is my number one. The work they do to help disadvantaged Native American children is so important. I was very happy to have some extra money last year and, thus, be able to make a sizeable gift of bedsheets, toys, school supplies, and other stuff for the students. I had a lot of fun picking out toys and school supplies from the children's "wish list".
The staff at St. Joseph's - several of whom I've spoken with and/or corresponded with - are wonderful, devout, dedicated, hard-working individuals.
St. Joseph's is always in my prayers, and I recommend it to other people who are looking for a great charitable organization to support. I wish I had a million dollars to give the school.

We recently attended a luncheon in Indianapolis Indiana with representatives and two lovely students from St. Joseph's. It was wonderful. One of the students actually sat at our table and ate lunch with us. Their message is so uplifting. I have been donating for over 30 years and it was special to actually meet the students.

My name is Doug, I am a veteran, I wish I could do more for the kids, I especially love that they get to know about a relationship with Jesus Christ. And I want them to know that is really where the money comes from. Thank you all so mycelium for the crafty gifts I receive. I can tell the children work really hard on them and they are so precious. I will keep fibbing what I can when I can. Thank you.

Hello I am glad to donate to the school and children as much as I can see I am 80 years and live on SSA so it is hard to give all the time but as I have a little I do

I am on a fixed income and I have been trying to get off their mailing list for a couple of years now with not much success. Being a California resident I have the legal right to have my information removed from their database. I thought I had been successful when I didn't receive anything for the last few months. But today I got another one full of their trinket bribes which usually starts the whole process over again of getting several requests for money every week. I want off this merry go round and I will tell as many people that I can that this ride seems to have no exit.

I like to donate to the school because I receive tokens such as socks, cards, and letters from the children as they express their gratitude for my donations. It warms my heart to hear how they are processing and how my small donations go a long way to make their lives better at the school.

Thank you so much for the gloves and beautiful Christmas cards. Everyone that I gave a card to commented on how well the cards and matching envelopes were well written and so pretty. Please keep me in mind for the cards next year. Or send me a letter to order them from you. Thanks.

I like the videos. I had the nicest talk with Maya. She works with the kids there. After I talked to her for about an hour on the phone, I decided I should really visit South Dakota.

Thanksgiving has a different meaning to me than most people. And my heart breaks to think of all the Indian nations we negatively affected. For this reason, I donate to St. Joseph's Indian School. I agree with others that the packets of stuff are totally not necessary. In fact, I'd rather they stopped sending the things out. I'd love to see emails with photos of what's being done. But I don't think it's necessary to question their honesty. They are highly rated by Great NonProfits and that's good enough for me. BTW, if you want to be more aware of how the American Indians have helped us "white" people, read the book, "Code Talkers." (or watch the movie). These men literally saved our butts!

My last donation I questioned the non-transparency of St. Joseph's Indian School.
I use "Charity Navigator" as a source of distinguishing the worthiness of donations of money I worked hard for.
Again I checked the "charitynavigator.org" and it still shows your organization as not rated.
All that is required to be rated is an "Accountability & Finance beacon" or an "Impact & Results beacon".
I cannot continue to donate to a charity that request money but sees no reason to show accountability for the funds their donors contribute.
Another reason I cannot just accept your word for what a wonderful program you have developed and how lucky the Lakota children are by being cared for by such a loving and caring staff would be the same reason as anyone who ever watched the 2017 movie "Indian Horse". This movie, based on a true story, depicts Canada’s notorious Catholic residential schools. The movie highlights the racism and horrible things that happened (in some cases as horrid as child molestation by staff members) to the Indigenous children.
I do not allege such activities have ever occurred at "St. Joseph's Indian School".
My goal is for the organization to be more transparent to alleviate any suspicion or uncertainty of present or potential future donors.
PS. I went to Greatnonprofits and also Candid. Neither did anything to give me a good feeling towards the benefit of your program. One of them (I believe Candid) tried to charge me in order to see accountability and finance.
I'm a big boy, if you find me wrong and can direct me to the info most non-profits provide I will recant my post and admit I'm non-informed of non-profit's. I realize, being a religious program you don't have to report to IRS but if I'm going to continue to donate I need to see how much you are receiving and how it's being spent.

Because i received a stimulus check, I decided to share some of with the children of St. Josephs. My generosity at that time in my life was recognized by the previous head of the school. He mailed a personal thank you letter! May the children always look forward to each day in the safety and friendship of each other. May their families be proud of them. as an educator my self. i value a good education.

I grew up with the Native American Indians in Arizona, many of which were my closest friends. Our family attended the reservations and the native dance events which really inspired me to honor and respect creation and mankind tremendously. The stories told in dance were breathtaking. We also saw first hand the living conditions and lack of technology and the need for day to day basic necessities such as: clean water, clothing, food and shelter. It struck a nerve with my mother and father to do what we could and help. We later found out through research that we too are of Native American decent. My mother donated to St. Joseph's Indian School for years and I told her I would continue donating after her death., she died in 2021. I 've been donating ever since.
I am so happy to be a part of making a better life for children and their parents. To be able to help in giving them better education, and the basic needs so necessary for living a healthier life. The dedication and commitment I found at St. Joseph's Indian School is heart warming. Love getting their packages and hearing their stories by the letters, ornaments, birthday cards to name a few.
Keep up the great work. It is blessed God!

My mother donated for several years. When she passed away, I picked up this obligation. Perhaps it is white guilt, but so what? I think the native Americans have gotten a tremendously raw deal from our people and the government. Supporting schools can help the children escape the inevitable failure when one lacks a good education. I wish they would not send me trinkets, just pictures of happy successful children. I know what it takes to run a nonprofit. Guidestar would not have them at the Platinum level if they were a scam.

I am stunned a the level of ignorance of most of the comments. I only see 2 from people who had any actual direct contact with this organization. The rest seems like folks who donated out of white guilt or without any vetting at all. My mother was hoodwinked into sending them money until I investigated and told her to stop. This is NOT a legit helpful organization. They have millions of $$$ and no transparency about where the money goes. See references on CharityWatch (https://www.charitywatch.org/charity-donating-articles/st-josephs-indian-school-25-years-of-no-accountability) and https://nonprofitquarterly.org/st-joseph-s-halts-fundraising-scheme-but-admits-no-wrongdoing/ AND ABUSE- https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/jun/30/my-relatives-went-to-a-catholic-school-for-native-children-it-was-a-place-of-horrors

I donate when I can. I read the 1 negative review. Don't agree with the figures they gave. I feel God controls all my giving. In giving I pray that it is used as intended. Blessings to the school and the children.

After receiving several packages from SJIS containing sox, plastic shopping bags, you know the stuff, I opened such a package today, which asked for donations to care for the children at the school. Included in the literature was the fantastical number of dollars needed to support one child per year at the SJIS: $116,195! The figure purportedly includes food, shelter, clothing, health care, counseling, and "much more." This breaks down to $397/day per child. Ludicrous. (By the way, check the math; even on its face it's wrong.) I am an affluent parent in the New york City area who has given three children education at elite schools, health care, shelter, clothing, plus fabulous vacations, ski trips, etc., and I guarantee you it did not cost $397 times three, meaning $1,191, per day to raise my children.

An earlier comment from another donor noted that SJIS has more than $100,000,000 in assets. Charity Watch in the past gave SJIS an "F" rating, the lowest possible, for its lack of transparency and huge marketing efforts. The numbers make me think that the directors, officers, and staff must be paid very considerable salaries. I will not give to SJIS again, and I hope someone investigates the real facts about this organization. As you know, SJIS does not report its revenue, expenses, and assets to any agency, including the IRS, because it is part of the Catholic church. I wonder how much of the donations are shared with the church? And are the children forced to become Catholic?

My neighbor Sam Adolfo was a donator to your school. Sadly Sam passed away from cancer. last month. He was a very nice person and will be greatly missed. God love you for what you do. Thank you

I lived just outside of Boston. When I graduated from Sharon High School my parents could not afford to send me to College. I got a great job where they sent me to computer classes. I met a man who was 9 years older than me and 9 days later we were engaged. 56 years later we are still married. He was a graduate of the Air Force Academy and on Officer in the Air Force. We had great assignments and visited 21 different countries. I know our country isn’t generous to Indian tribes, so I donate whatever I can.

I have donated for several years to the St. Joseph,s Indian School because I believe that education is the key to the development of the mind. Education and other opportunities will
help the future generation to succeed and become good citizens. I also believe in the work
that is being done there by the staff. God,s blessings to all.

I’ve actually been there to the Indian school several times… my uncle worked there in maintenance and my cousin by marriage is a teacher also . I was there for a pow wow and it was fantastic.

I have been donating to St. Joe's for a couple of decades. My brother and I were raised in Oklahoma. Being tri-racial, we were bullied from all three sides. Mom enrolled us in parochial school because she was determined to protect her children. She knew we could negotiate a cruel world better with a solid education. Mom was right. It was that education that kept me away from drugs and taught me how to deal with a college education and adulthood.

The education of our children will determine the future of our country and planet. I chose St. Joe's because they are fully transparent. The children at St. Joe's deserve to participate in all the opportunities a solid education provides. For this reason, I will continue to support this amazing charity.

I haven't been donating for long, however any organization who takes care of children, especially the spiritual needs are ok in my book. When the Lord blesses me, I will bless others! May God continue to bless your endeavors!!! Tom

I, too, have supported the St Joseph's Indian school for years. I love the fact that they emotionally and physically support their students , and that they make sure to keep their Indian culture alive and well. My grandmother taught English to the Indians in Oklahoma during the Great Depression and I was inspired to follow the Lakota Indians as I have lived in the North for most of my life. St Joseph's aids in schooling the children so that they can become well educated and well- rounded Adults that can be successful in their future endeavors,

I have been happy to support St Joseph's financially for years.
The work that they do to support and educate Native American youth - who would otherwise have no where else to turn - is so important in making a difference to their well-being and growth.

This school has only about 165 students, many attending the local no cost high school. Their letters make it sound like the child's next meal, pencil, or shirt may be in jeopardy. Sheer nonsense. The SJS endowment is over 325 million which brakes down to 2 million per child. With a low 5% annual income, each child would have 216,000 in their lunch pail.They do not submit an IRS 990 form showing salary per position . The administrator makes a bundle no doubt, no heavy lifting or long office hours. The letters are disheartening in their lack of frankness and the illusion of destitution. I will be checking with the diocese for further investigation. They should share their bundle of investments with other needy institutions. There is an incense odor needing a complete audit, not provided to donors or anyone. Trust but verify...thank you President Reagan.

Somehow, I got on the mailing list for St. Joseph's Indian School awhile ago. I have never donated and thought their "packets" seemed rather expensive and money better spent elsewhere.
After attending a conference last month and learning more about the history of Indian Schools, I decided to do more homework on St. Joseph's.
I am appalled and disgusted by what I have found. I was going to just send a request to be taken off their mailing list, but it seems as if that will be next to impossible.
Fictitious student letters? Dreamcatchers mad in China? An "F" rating in non-profit rating?
"A school run by non-Indians is raising a fortune off of racial stereotypes." (2010 Leonard Pease, Chairman of Crow Creek Sioux)

I just feel like the Native Americans have been mistreated by our country . This school is a blessing to help these young folks lift themselves up .

When I was a child, my friends and I played "Cowboys and Indians"... this game was always about the cowboys beating the Indians as that's the way it was in the movies. We played "Cops and Robbers," too. And of course, the Cops always won, catching the Robbers and putting them in jail (which was under the grapes in the grape arbor in our back yard). It did not occur to me that in those child games, we were essentially putting the "Indians" (Native Americans) in the same category with criminals. Later, in school, at about the age of 11-12, I started learning about how Native Americans welcomed the Europeans to their shores and I was glad about that. Then at about the age of 15 and on, I began to find some accounts of how the welcoming of foreigners to their lands turned bad for the Native Americans. I thought back to my childhood games of "Cowboys and Indians" and realized that somehow, we had all had a part in subjugating these beautiful people, their culture, their standards, into a low social category, where we, the "White Europeans" took the better part of the lands they had lived on, respected and cared for as it was the Great Spirit who, in the beginning, had loaned all the lands to them to be cared for, as he would want. And then, all of a sudden, the Native Americans were moved to smaller plots of land called "Reservations" in areas that were of no interest to the whites, while the U.S. Government gave their now confiscated lands away to a group of White folks who were to "grow" the west and south. The more I learned about this time in U.S. History, the worse I felt about all of it. And what could I, just a regular not wealthy person, a mother, now grandmother, great grandmother and retired Professional Artist do about any of that? And like a flash out of the blue, or a quick thought with sparks, came the name of St. Joseph's Indian School. I was delighted. A way to do what I can to feel okay again when I see those beautiful children who are Lakota Sioux, Oglala, Cherokee or whatever... those who will grow to be accomplished, cherished and cherishing as they were ever meant to be.

Love and Light to one and all... The children, St. Joseph's full staff, teachers, aids, etc. Thank you.

H. Ann Johnson --

Hi,
I want to thank you for all the gifts I received from you today! I sure wish I could help you out but at this time I am fighting cancer of the prostate & bladder. I live on a very tight budget so it's very difficult to donate more than once a year. I did donate to you last Christmas.
You are a very reliable charity to donate to.
May you continue all the good you are doing for these children.
Cheers,
Al Natali

I'm more than happy to be able to assist this charitable organization periodically as I know the money is needed and will be used to help Native American children.

This program simply put touches the deepest parts of my heart. Its abundantly clear St. Joseph's Indian school is a special Place for a lot of very special children. I make donations periodically, when I can, and it's truly an honor to be even a small part of such a great thing. To know that I can help these children, in any capacity brings me so much joy. Thank you St. Joseph's, for everything you do. May God shower you all, and the children with blessings each and every day!

My mother was a supporter of St. Joseph’s, and when she passed away 17 years ago, I continued the support. By that time I knew very well that what St. Joseph’s did for Indian children was much more than supplying basic needs. Children at the school are cared for as individuals, and their culture is taught as a point of pride. Every year, I love reading about their graduates, and hearing about their success. There is no doubt in my mind that St. Joseph’s is an incredible gift , not only to their students, but to their donors who are allowed a chance to help make their good work continue.

Hello...I gave today as I want to help more Native-American children receive a good education...Anything you send to me that I do not need..such as dream catchers I give to my local charity Restore so the money gets recycled to help others in another way...I encourage others who get anything they do not need not to throw things out but give to a local charity thrift store...I think we all know the great injustices done to all the Native-Americans by our country. We stole their land and lied to them to name two injustices.. I am hoping future generations of Native Americans can and will do better. thank you for all you do Jane

I believe in the motto of St. Joseph's Indian School--to educate Native American children and their families for life — mind, body, heart and spirit. What better way to make a difference than to nurture young people so that they grow into productive, contributing members of society! I love the stories and how lives are changed. Just one request--please pare down the gifts via fundraising efforts. I do not need dream catchers or greeting cards or address labels. Put the money those items cost toward the needs of the children. Thank you so much for your caring of these children.

Through the years, the faithful Dakota children have always sent me their gifts from the 'heart." with Father Greg Schill as Chaplain, he (more than anyone else) would know the consequences of dishonesty as he is well aware of our Heavenly Father overlooking his deeds from the heart. Father Schill (most assuredly) KNOWS he will be accounted for the handling of funds donated to God's children. I trust my Heavenly Father to direct these hard earned sacrificed funds to donate to His needy children (especially during these hard economic times). Sending many Blessings, Prayers and Graces to ALL of the Dakota children and more importanly; L-O-V-E.

I am very proud to donate to St. Joseph’s Indian School. I know some feel that I should donate to other places because of the percentage that is held back to fund administration and fund drives. To them I say, if you do not donate that is your personal choice. But, do not preach to me about how I should spend my money. When it comes to donations it is from the heart.

I suggest you read this piece from Charity Watch about 25 years of nonaccountability from St. Joseph's Indian School, which refuses to provide audited financial statements. See
https://www.charitywatch.org/charity-donating-articles/st-josephs-indian-school-25-years-of-no-accountability#:~:text=An%20%E2%80%9CF%E2%80%9D%20Rated%20Charity&text=Joseph's%20Indian%20School%20for%20a,investigated%20the%20charity's%20fundraising%20claims.

This Charity refuses to file a 990 form with the irs and until they do so ,so I can see their yearly revenue I will no longer give.. It makes me think they have something to hide...I want to know what their annual revenue is and who gets the money......

I keep getting worthless stuff I don't need and never asked for from St. Joseph School. A cheap plastic bag and a dream catcher. I don't need more unsolicited junk sent thru the mail. I've been receiving junk from them for years and have never responded. Now I'm getting mail in my name sent to my father in laws house! The more "gifts" I receive from a charity the less likely I'll be to donate. You're sending me gloves and socks then asking for money for children's clothing?? It doesn't look like much of a donation actually goes to the children so they'll get nothing from me.

Rev. John Lester, a Catholic priest I had known for 55 years, supported St. Joe’s. After his death in 2017, I continued to contribute to their programs in his memory because I believe that all lives matter, and because we should preserve a culture that shows great respect for the earth. I enjoy reading about the children and delighting in their achievements.

I have supported St Joseph's financially for years.. I really believe in the work that they do not only in educating these bright young people in the subjects every student takes but in helping them to keep their culture alive. I love getting art and a letter from a student every month and watching the videos they post.

I have been a financial supporter of St. Joseph's Indian School for decades. I love their mission: caring for and educating children whose home lives may not give them all that they need. But on top of this, St. Joseph's emphasizes the students' Lakota heritage with classes, celebrations, and events, like the annual pow wow. I hope to visit it one day.

My wife and I were able to go to this years Powwow and tour the campus and I can tell you that we were more than impressed. And that just makes me more app to donate to this great school. Thanks again

Although there are multiple worthwhile charities that I donate to, I have continued to donate to St. Joseph's Indian School for several reasons. First and foremost is to help the Native American children and their families...these youngsters have extra difficult circumstances to deal with, and no one should be left out of having an education, or being cared for, while they are in school. And secondly, I sincerely appreciate that St. Joseph's allows their students to celebrate, learn about, and live their heritage and celebrate their religion. I feel that this is of upmost importance, since practicing AND LIVING your religion (and if they so choose, experience the Catholic faith as well) should NOT be denied. Personally, All That Is came to me many years ago and I only had to open my heart to receive my Gift of Life and Living!
I am happy knowing that my donation is making a difference in a child's life, as I am certain that these children will make a positive difference in the world!

I have been donating to St. Joseph's School for some time now. When I received a birthday card recently with a picture of two little children on it, I knew that I had to donate again. Those two and all the others who have the possibility of going to this school are the reason I will keep giving as long as I am able. Their lives matter, and their futures should matter to all of us.

I receive requests from. Josep all kinds of nonprofits, most of which I don't trust. At 75-years-old, I've heard of so many fraudulent appeals. As an American Indian, I only give to native children. I believe they should not suffer any consequences because of their birth and emotional challenges or lack of parenting. St. Joseph's is my only charity.
Jackie Iyall

My wife who passed in 2021 has been donating for many many years to help these children. In honor of my wife, and to help these loving beautiful children I am happy to donate on a monthly basis. Helping children is the most important thing we can do as adults.

I GOT A GENUINE INDIAN BLANKET. IT SAYS "MADE IN INDIA" RIGHT ON THE TAG.
CLEVER BS MARKETING!

I called and spoke to Elizabeth to let her know my mother, a monthly donor, had passed and her automated monthly donations will not be continued on the debit card she used.
Of the many organizations I have contacted in the past few months, I have received condolences and many thank you’s and descriptions of gratitude for the many years of continued monthly gifts from my mother.

Elizabeth gave me nothing. Not a thank you or condolence. I pointed this out to Elizabeth and she giggled and said she was only taking notes.

The organizations that genuinely showed respect to our family and gratitude for my mother’s continued charity through the years, our family has picked up where my mother had left off and have given a larger monetary portion from her estate.

Not with this organization. If they did not care about a long time donor and offer not an ounce of respect to our loss, they will not be gifted to, anymore by our family.

I hope Elizabeth learns empathy when dealing with people.

Hi,

I have been giving to the St. Joseph Indian School for a number of years now and believe they are doing a fantastic job in educating these young people. Children are our future and I want to help those who need it the most become whatever they choose to be in that future. I think this school fills a great need for not only education but in showing the boys and girls how they can change their lives and by planting seeds for a better family life in the future. The love shown to them is very apparent in all their pictures and joyful drawings. Keep up the good work St. Joseph's!! Judy Skapik (California)

I have been donating to the school for many years, when I can. For 2 years I knitted hats at Christmas time for the children. I am 86 years young and do not always have the extra money to send. I appreciate the 'gifts' I receive from you. I have given some of the Dream Catchers to my great grandchildren, they love them as do I. I always love the videos you send with the children. Bless you, for teaching and helping the children and their families. Thank you. R C Colorado

I have donated to st Joseph for many years but will no longer. While I support their cause, it is hard to justify sending money for clothing when they are sending out gloves and socks! The money would be better spent on the children who need so much more than we so.

I began supporting St. Joseph's about a year ago. I live on the East Coast, and I am only peripherally aware of the poverty these children face and the issues their families face. After supporting other efforts to maintain Indigenous American culture in the mid-west, I felt it was important to regularly support the work of those trying to better the future of these communities and culture. I was impressed with their track record, mission, and goals. Wishing all the students, staff, and faculty the very best.

Wife and I were in that neck of the woods at the bike rally in August. And to Wall Drug we were so close. So I feel moved to help out a bit.

A good school, a good cause. Even though deeply connected with religion I would donate but for the excessive money spent on marketing. The packets sent are more like gifts than expressions of appreciation. If you would like to send a thank you then a small note pad would be lovely, cheaper, and cost far less to ship. Are the gifts made in the USA? By Native Americans? A note: SJIS spends 27% on internal costs while 17% - 19% seems to be the recommended amount.

I received mailing with many gifts today. I appreciate them but will request no gifts in future. SJIS is not rated by Charity Navigator - CN says it is because they are a religious organization. For me that would usually mean a no for any support. However, I have spent time researching them and although I see things I would like changed such as have some women on your Board of Directors, and spend less on mailings and more on program, I do see enough positives to support this non-profit. St. Joe's, please make sure that as much of our donations go to these children as possible!

No organizations are perfect folks. But I believe St. Joe's has their heart in the right place and we should support the students of this small school.

My Dad Henry gave donations to the children of St Joseph's Indian School all the time and cared very much for the education of the children. He passed away in December 2021 and I now enjoy giving so that these children can have a great education and grow strong. God bless the children and the teachers who educate them so they may grow to do wonderful things for the world. May all their dreams come true and may God bless them throughout their lives.

Native Americans have suffered since the European "discovery" of North America. Treaties with them were broken, they were decimated by disease, and their original lands and way of life taken away from them. To survive, they were told they had to assimilate into the "American" (that is, white) way of doing things by forsaking their languages and traditions.

I have supported St. Joseph's Indian School since 2003 because they not only teach Native American children the skills they need to succeed in modern society, but educate them in the traditional ways of their culture, as well as the near-extinct Lakota language. The school is also about more than education: it provides health care to the students, help for abused women, counseling for each student and his or her family, and during the summer a bookmobile that travels to the reservations and a day camp.

73% of the money St. Joseph's raises goes towards the children attending the school, their families and cultural development.

As to those who feel they receive too much mail from the school, my experience is that St. Joseph's is more than happy to modify individual mailing preferences. (For example, at my request, they stopped sending me address labels and other merchandise, and reduced my mailings to just their periodic newsletter called "Children of the Prairie.") They are very quick to thank me for my donations and you can request that they not share your name with other groups.

I received a Christmas-themed solicitation from St. Joseph's Indian School in late January, and it made me chuckle! I understand how this happens! And, since I related to their "doing the best they can" (in the marketing) situation, I looked at this place a little closer. We went on the internet looking for criticism and found none. Instead, we found complements. My husband and I are now supporters. Happy 2022!

I donate to st Joseph’s every month if possible! I think of them as my children and I always get personal thank you’s and newsletter to let me know that what I am doing is so worth it! ������ I will continue to take care of my kids as long as I am able! Love ❤️ and prayers������������To all of them!

It is way past time for Native Americans to be recognized and to feel of their importance to our nation and to their people. SJIS does a phenomenal job of helping the children (and their families) to delve into their culture and be proud of their history. Keep up the good work!

God bless.
Sue O

I have continued my late husbands donations to St. Joseph's because the money is wisely spent on children who have largely been forgotten. I give monthly with an automatic donation. Their programs are phenomenal. Check them out on Facebook or YouTube, ypu will see for yourselves.

I have been donating to St. Joseph’s Indian School for about 30 years. It’s heartwarming to see the joy on the faces of these Indian children. I’ve also been fortunate to meet (quite by accident) graduates of the school and they have raved about their experience at St. Jo’s. It’s my favorite charity.

I am at 75 year old retired teacher and I heard about Saint Joseph’s through a friend. I started donating and it is a wonderful wonderful organization. A quite often receive beautiful things the kids have made, dream catchers, ornaments, they also send me the most beautiful cards throughout the year. I want so much to go up to South Dakota and visit them.

I have seen first hand the poverty, the despair, and the challenges that the Lakota civilization has had to deal with. It's wonderful to see how your school has stepped up to help the children - allowing them to practice their native culture - as well as giving them faith and hope for their future. I started supporting the school years ago and am looking forward to visiting the school sometime soon. Thanks for all you do for these kids!

I only rate this charity as a "2" vs "1" because I really can't find out how highly they are rated since I can't find them on two of the most respected charity raters; Charity Navigator or Charity Watch. However, like many others, I have been bombarded several times this year with wasteful packages of "stuff". I would very much like to support children in need, but I make it a point not to donate to any group that sends gifts, enticements etc.. What a waste of funds.

I appreciate and believe in the work St. Joseph's does with Native American youth. I agree with others who say please do not send so many mailers and I do not need all the gifts; dream weavers, cards, blankets, etc. You are sending far too many requests and most just go into the trash. I do donate the gifts to our local non-profit so hopefully someone makes use of them, but please stop the frequent mailers.

I donate regularly to St. Joseph Indian School even though I'm caucasian. I would like them to send more appropriate thank you gifts---stop sending dream catchers made in China!! I have no use for 30 or more of them--- so I throw them away as I think most people do. It's a waste of money all around from assembly, to postage, to landfills. I want my money to help a child, not buy dream catchers to be thrown away!!! Christmas gift bags are better than cards as many of us stopped sending cards due to the postage. I have a huge stack of cards that I'm not going to use. Christmas cards and Dream Catchers are a waste of money to send to us as we don't use them. Send us gifts that we can use!! How about a dish towel or a pillow case, or paper napkins be sent out instead of holiday cards, or useless dream catchers by the dozens! I will continue to donate to the school but please consider a different type of thank you gift to donors like me. I've read this same complaint from others so PLEASE listen and respect what we tell you. Marilyn from Minnesota

I give to this organization as the Native Americans on Reservations are some of the poorest people. Many don't have electricity nor running water. Education is needed to help change lives.

It's a beautiful thing they do, to take care of children who have no one else. I donate to them often and enjoy seeing updates that show the children thriving. Keep up the good work!

I have read the many reviews Ire st josephs indian school. i am intrigued by old tex revilew which seems very reasonable. One of the things i find most concerning is (im assuming they are being paid) the size of their board of directors. Secondly i looked at the the financial report.The some of the items liste on the expenditures are pretty neblulus: Especially in the area of support services
Public about its expectations for nonprofit administration. Respondents suggested a ratio of 23 cents per dollar was practical. This amount is 13.9 cents less than the actual average expenditure.Twenty-seven percent of survey respondents said 10 to 19 percent was reasonable for administrative expenditures. St judes financial show 18 cents so it looks like st josephs school admin ependitures seem slightly excessive. I think this report is rather glossy.

I give what I can, when I can, to this worthy organization. I do this to honor the lives of all native people. I donated today especially, in recognition of the Thanksgiving holiday, because my life as an American comes at the high cost of many lives lost among these People.

My wife and I visited the St. Joseph's campus in 2012 and have interacted by phone with St. Joseph's staff regularly since then. We contribute about every other month during the year and look forward to the newsletters containing stories of the great success of the St. Joseph's students. Student success is our measure of how effectively our donations are being put to use. We are pleased with our return on investment in St. Joseph's.

I am new at this but not to the love I have in my heart for all these children. Thank you so much for my packages. Thank you too children. I love you all. God Bless.

I saw a neighbor lady getting Dream Catchers and things from the school,,..then tossing the donations sheet in the trash, :( I grabbed one when she was not looking & donated, I got a Wonderful Package with gifts I still Love and hang in my home! I myself make Dream Catchers and understand the work & time! I will continue to donate, not for the gifts but for the wonderfu children & people here! TY jaccimay

I'm a relatively new donor that is set up to provide monthly donations to the school. It's a perfect match.. Children are receiving what they need throughout the school year in a safe environment, and knowing I'm able to give back some love that this country took with great aggression and bloodshed helps my heart. Not my ancestors, but nonetheless….No one deserves what carnage we inflicted on North America's Native Americans. Bless each child.
My new mission is WHY HAS THIS COUNTRY NOT INVESTIGATED THE GREATEST CHRIME OF THIS CENTURY. OVER 6,000 FEMALES HAVE DISAPPEARED AND NO NEWS COVERAGE. WE LOOK FOR A BLOOD HAIRED 21 YR OLD WITH FULL NEWS COVERAGE BUT IM ROUNDING UP YO 6,000 FEMALES SINCE THE AUTHORITIES DONT HAVE A FIGURE TO PROVIDE SINCE 2016 OF 5,600 MISSING GIRLS. WITH MURDERS AND SEX TRAFFICKING ALARMS SHOULDNT BE RINGING BUT BLOWING UP. WHY I LOVE THESE LITTLE ONES ACCOUNTED FOR ..SAVE IN A COSY BED ? BECAUSE THIS IS WHAT WE EACH DESERVE. NOT RIPPED AWAY FROM OUR HOMES AND NO ONE IN LAW ENFORCEMENT AND THE FBI IS LOOKING FOR US .

How could anyone look at these kids and not fall in love with them! I just started as a monthly donor because I am so moved by the curriculum blend of Christian faith with Native American heritage. Great leadership and programs need to be supported!

My brother, a Viet Nam vet, stood with hundreds of vets and the Lakota Sioux to help protect sacred land and prevent an oil pipeline from impinging on that land. I took an interest in doing what I could to help. I'm so pleased to say this is a cause that is worthwhile, and does a lot of good for vulnerable children

The children always send me beautiful cards and gifts. And I am called to thank me for my giving. This really touched me to give even more. A great charity to give to. They do a wonderful work for the children.

Wonderful program, they keep you involved in all the going on at the school. Wish they did not send so much stuff, less would be better. Hearts are all in the right place. A'ho

Es una bendición dar un granito que hace la diferencia para estos niños .

Our Family thru the generations have been supporters of SJIS, so it was quite a thrill, honor and so fortunate for us that Wanda was able to give us a guided tour of the campus. We were so impressed by everything. So many gears to this machine that seem to be well oiled. Quite Impressive INDEED.

I am blessed to have donated to this loving organization multiple times and will continue to do so. It warms my heart to know that the donations I have made, however often, help to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate than me. I applaud those who work so closely within St. Joseph's Indian School for their commitment to all the children. These children are truly beautiful inside and out and deserve to have a life filled with peace, love, comfort and happiness. God bless you all in the name of our beloved Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

I am more or less involved with St. Joseph Indian school because I love children. They are makers of our future what kind of world we would live in.

I am not able to reply or write to each student but I love them all hope they succeed in life to make this world a better place to live in.

My mailing address has changed recently.

The new address is:
4348 Caliente St. Las Vegas NV 89119.
Please make a note of that.

I remember when I was a little girl my grandmother was sent small beaded dolls, and baskets, and sometimes little moccasins. I used to love looking at them, and she told me that sometimes she sent money “to help the children” with their school. I’ve contributed to St. Joseph’s for several decades. It makes me happy to think I’m carrying on in my grandmother’s place.

This group is honest and laudable in its efforts to help Native American children. These kids deserve whatever can be done for them.

By and for the Glory of Our Lord Jesus Christ we are able to contribute to the St. Joseph’s Indian School. Thank you all the beautiful work you do for the Great Lakota People. May they prosper all their lives. God Bless all y’all ✝️������������������������������������������✝️

I see all these non profit junk mail in my fathers house (he’s 78) and he constantly has to change bank cards bc of fraud and scams claiming to be helping children.
My heart is full seeing St. Joseph’s is NOT one of those abhorred places.
God will bless all those who help children and more prayers for the kiddos growing up in crazy, uncertain times like these.
Thank you for all you do. ❤️

My father who served in WWII taught me to always to be caring and kind. I have been making donation to this school for a number of years. The death of my husband May 16 brought the reality that we all must face some day some sooner than others. I have included this school and the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation Re-member in my will. What the white man did to the Indians over the years and today is almost unforgivable but maybe the proceeds from my death will help with the suffering that the Indians are having to endure because of the while man's greed even today.

A great non profit to give to.I have ben giving to them for years.saw a special on pbs that really sold me on this school.keep up the great work you do at st Joseph’s.

Dave

Hi I received a bunch of gift in the mail today, I wanted to donate to the Native American education. But before I send any donation, I want to confirm this is a legitimate organization. I am a retired marketing executive. I understand why organizations use small gifts to get ppl to respond to a cause. After reading lots of comments.. I find the negative comments are mostly from ppl who do not like the constant gift mailing from the SJIS marketing machine.. which is most likely run by a marketing firm contracted to help with the fund raising.. And the response to ppl's negative comments about the gift mailing is always, "if you don't like the method of communication, please let us know and we will use the way that suits you". It appears to me this is not even the SJIS talking, this is a marketing company administrator talking.. I doubt SJIS committee are even aware of the issue that people are complaining about the waste of money in gift mailing. the Charity organization might not have all the man power to do it themself.. it is usually cheaper to hire a marketing firm to do the promotion. and easily cut or increase based on the funding availability. the SJIS might not even supervise what the marketing company is doing (a lot company would reject to let ppl look over the shoulder) the marketing company might just show the result of donation/marketing expense ratio to those hired them. that said.. I would hope those who feel negative about the waste on the gift, shipping and the handling cost (myself included) should communicate with the school board directly about this concern. sometimes the employer of the marketing firm tries to be respectful and let the contracted marketing firm do what they do the best, and just review the result (which is the amount of donation). Instead of punishing the children who need the donation to get better education, I personally will contact school board about the mailing concern. we want to get result, not by cutting off the donation that is necessary to support the native american children. But by inform the school board about our concern. so the board can review the marketing arm or the contracting firm's practice, and put more supervision on their fundraising committee. PS I am using 3 stars as a neutral position and to get the attention from whoever is supervising this social rating system... who knows it is the SJIS staff or the Marketing firm who is hired to do this work??!!!!

I am a member of the Western Cherokee nation. As of this time, we don't have a program like the St. Joseph's Indian School. Being 78 years old, I can't do a great deal to help these fine young people but, with what I can I am honored.
Larry Sisco

I deeply appreciate the enthusiasm of the girls and boys, the teens, and the young adults. The open hopeful expectation on their faces is a wonderful expression of the success of the mission of St. Joseph's Indian School and I am honored to be a small part of helping to allow this to happen. As an older retired gentleman on Social Security and a small pension, I am limited in the amount I can offer but I am a firm believer in the adage that every little bit helps.
The beauty of the Indian culture being passed on is a tribute not only to the school but also and especially to the parents who I equally respect and offer thanksgiving each morning in m,y time of prayer and meditation. I value the music of the Native American Flute and various drums the different tribes use in celebrating life, faith, hope, and love.
I wish you all the power of your dedication to redound on all of your hearts and souls.

I was born and raised in Lithuania, I always felt a deep respect for the local people of America. As a child, I have read many books about Indians. I have lived in the states for 18 years, I want to contribute to keep the Lakota culture alive. The future is in the hands of young children who are proud of their heritage and we need to help. I am very pleased that this is a Christian school. With God’s help, anything is possible. God bless you, who loves you very much! - Egidijus & Jūratė Siniauskas, Lithuania LT.

I've been donateing for a # of years to this school ! They try their best to help the kids on the res. get a educateion ! I wish the congress would do the right thing and treat them as they treat all others !!

Wičaša wižiča wauŋ šni, but I give when I'm able as I sincerely believe the youth are the future of our nation.
May Yahweh hold each of you in His hands as you move forward in life and may the generocity you've been shown always be remembered and passed along to others. I pray this for each of you, Mitakuye Oyas'in.
J. CrazyHawk miye yelo.

The children always send such nice cards and writing pens to me. The school always keeps me up to date about what kinds of activities they are doing. They never fail to amaze me!

My aunt contributed to this organization for many years. After her death 3 years ago, I have continued to honor her memory with donations to St. Joseph's Indian School. I love the greeting cards they send with scripture verses. It gives me pleasure to know that not only are the physical needs of children are being met, but also their Christian spiritual needs. What joy it gave me when I saw the pictures of children with the ashes of Ash Wednesday on their foreheads.

I have donated to St. Joseph’s for so many years. I can’t remember.. one of my daughters did an internship at one of the reservations out west and told me how in need they were, beside St, Joseph being my patron Saint. Our first Americans were not treated very well and that bothers me to this day..
I respect and admire these courageous people and their. Beliefs about Mother Earth and the God of our being..
Thank you just isn’t enough , wish I could do more ..Blessings from this 80 year old woman of God...

I use to travel the area of the reservation. It is a disgrace to America what we have done to the American Indians. They are very worthy of any assistance you can afford to give them

As others have said, I am angered by the freqeunt over-stuffed mailings. Sending a letter to be taken off their mailing list did not seem to work, so today I called them directly. It was interesting that the choices offered in the automated phone reception were all about levels of giving, and when I talked to the live receptionist, her first question was, "Are you calling to make a donation?"

I made one memorial contribution and they have harassed me for years. They keep sending me their junk in the mail despite repeated attempts to get off the mailing list. They should devote resources to the children and stop creating more trash, which is certainly not a native American value.

I feel unsure how to assign a rating to this charity, since I think there's much to appreciate about the work they're doing. I've examined their website and read other reviews by contributors, and I feel pretty confident that SJIS is doing valuable work with Native American young people. But I don't approve of their fundraising approach. As others have noted, SJIS sends out a fundraising packet that is overloaded with items that seem to me excessive and inconsistent with respect for nature and for values that go beyond materialism. I've received such a packet not just once but multiple times and finally requested to be removed from their mailing list. I don''t have the means to contribute to many worthy charities I'd like to support. But I also object to this kind of overstuffed mailing with items that are not of use or will end up in the trash before long. I gather that the school operation is successful with their fundraising efforts and must think this kind of appeal works well for them. I suspect at least some people feel obligated to contribute after receiving all these goodies, which include a "reusable" but not washable or recyclable grocery/carrying bag. So maybe that's the school's strategy beyond just making a case for the good work. As someone else noted, their revenue and expense seem out of proportion to the schooling of 200 Native American young people. I know there's need for a lot of staff, infrastructure and materials for such an effort, but I still find the operation somewhat out of proportion to the number served. If I was closer, I would arrange to go there to see the operation and speak to staff in person. I suspect they're very sincere and committed to this work, and that their work has many positive benefits. So I have mixed feelings. As for the fundraising packet they send out, I've seen responses from a SJIS representative that basically talk around this issue without really justifying it and with the same generic promotion for the school's good work. I think they could be equally successful and appear more respectful of nature and tribal values if they stopped this kind of over-the-top mailing. And to be honest, I don't think their response to others giving this kind of feedback is very direct or understanding of the issues we raise. So I hope they'll change their fundraising strategy.

I have donated to St. Joseph's Indian School for many years. I enjoy receiving letters, notes and although not necessary, small gifts like dream chatchers, pens and cards.
I love the birthday card and note they just sent to me with picture of some of the children.
I feel this is a very good and appreciative cause.
Maybe I can visit one day.
Take Care
Karen Caffrey

I agree completely with the many reviewers I see who acknowledge all the grievous wrongs that the Native community has endured through centuries of colonization. I have given to the school many times, as I have to other charities purporting to advance Native interests. But I'm done with St. Joseph's School. The volume of mailings and the amount of waste is absolutely appalling! If there is any truth at all to my understanding of the value that indigenous cultures place on relationship to the earth and the natural world, then this flood of unsolicited dream-catchers, pens, notepads and address labels, all of which find their way into the landfills, is an abomination. If you are looking to support Native culture and resilience, there are surely many places that will make better use of your donor dollars.

I have been supporting St. Joseph's Indian School for quite some time now, though I am not able to support financially nearly as much as I wish I could. It breaks my heart to read the comments that are critical of the financial management of St. Joseph's. I don't believe, for a minute, that food is taken out of the children's mouths or clothing off their bodies, just so they can send the gift packages to potential donors. I must clarify a misconception that Friends of St. Joseph's Indian School gets all the donations and gives the school a pittance of what was donated. As directed, my checks are written to St. Joseph's Indian School not Friends of.....(this was from a comment made by a critical person). And naysayers need to research the Not for Profit 501 (c) 3. This is the legal standing that St. Joseph's operates under and they have to what I call "jump through lots of hoops" under the 501 (c) 3. I don't know how they do it all. I just know what they are doing is amazing!!! Keep up the good work!!! Everyone involved, from the youngest child to Chairman of the Board of Directors and everyone in between and the school's buildings themselves are in my morning and evening prayers every day!!!

Although born and raised in Spain I always felt a deep respect for Native American people. Now, living in the States, I want to contribute so that the Lakota Sioux culture is kept alive. The future is in the hands of the young kids who feel proud of their heritage. That, together with an education, is the way to go. I found St. Joseph's Indian School to be the perfect place to accomplish that. Marisa de la Vega-Fitzgerald, Tucson, AZ.

I have donated to St. Joseph's Indian School for several years now. It is truly a blessing to be able to contribute to the education of our Native American children, and know they are also being taught about their culture. I love the newsletters and stories written by the children that are shared with contributors. I feel like I'm a part of their school even though I live in eastern Tennessee. With love to all, Stephanie

I am a first generation Italian born in this great country. I feel very fortunate to be living here in the wealthiest country on the planet. While I may "only" be middle class in this country, I still believe it is good to share what we have. When looking for charities that support some of the impoverished right here in the USA, I understand that our history as a nation is replete with actions we have taken against minorities for "our" own benefit. While our ideal is freedom as a nation of citizens, we have a long way to go to accomplish this freedom. When I look to see what some of the most aggrieved minorities throughout our history, Native Americans jump out at me. While I'm not comparing our treatment of Native Americans to any other minority, it's easy to see, for me, that as a nation, we owe something back to our brothers who met the Mayflower, especially those that have welcomed us since 1492. I have donated to St. Joseph's Indian School for many years now and am happy that they are educating Native Americans. I am also happy to share my money toward that education. I believe this charity to be an excellent source of what my faith teaches me to do, sharing. And so, I am happy to share some of the things this country has provided me. Educating Native American children is a great start. For any and all of my donations, there has not been a single time when I was not thanked for the kindness. I am grateful to the Lakota children for their gratitude as well as I am happy to share my means. I hope more people find it in their hearts to also share with St. Joseph's Indian School.

Being a grandson of one who when alive donated to SJIS. Once I grew up (and more importantly became more thoughtful) began the journey of faith and an understanding that charity is not just during Lent; over time a serious commitment began to form and once a plan was formulated, Saint Joseph’s was listed as potential beneficiaries. Research proved beneficial to rule out many organizations that my faith demanded of me. In the end, Saint Joseph’s commitment to ensuring the preservation of the customs was a key to keeping them on the list. As my Faith has grown, I am blessed to be able to pray and support their efforts to nurture, educate not only the kids of such a great tribal community, but to give their families hope for tomorrow!

I give a $20 here and there to St.Joseph’s Indian School. I wish I could give more because many of the mailings contain really nice gifts. I give because as a Substance Abuse Counselor and having worked in the field of human services in Northern,NY I have seen the poverty that burdens local native reservations. I also know how addiction to substances and alcohol ravage native reservations because of the poverty. I’m not concerned about the mailings, most nonprofits have a development department whose only job is to solicit funds. It’s just the reality for nonprofits. It may seem like a lot of money is being spent on mailings but many companies will partner with nonprofits and offer discounted production costs because it benefits them fiscally in the form of tax write offs. Anyways, this is just my 2 cents.

This non-profit is worth many millions of dollars. I’m sure they take care of the children. However, the amount of advertising that they do is ridiculous. I was the Nursing Director at a nursing home for many years. Almost every patient got their ads every month. Many of our patients had dementia and could not manage their own funds. It got to the point we were dumping boxes of their ads in the dumpster. They need much better control of how they spend their income, income that is provided by hard working donors.

As someone who worked for Ad Agencies producing Direct Mail, the last mailing ended it for me in making any contributions. ELEVEN items, all expensive to produce. Included a large 4 color printed custom mailer, 4 color over B/W 2 sided letter, a perfed 4/C over B/W certificate, a 4/C over B/W drawing/letter; a custom daily planner, perfect bound, with a foiled cover & a placement ribbon; a 4/C over 4/C die-cut backer that held a pen, & the planner. Attached to this backer is also 4/C printed Music CD, & a 4/C printed CD Sleeve with a glassine front. All off these items have to be assembled, inserted into the mailer with a foam type protector, sealed with clear disks, then labeled from pre-printed address mailing labels.
All these elements need to be written & designed by an agency, approved
by the management team, & final digital Art must be produced by the agency to go to a variety of Printers. The bigger the package, the higher the postage costs. Given the large stream of CONTINUAL mailings of truly unwanted stuff - it's obviously going to cover those costs. Especially since there is such a small base at the school, the monies have to be going more towards outside support & vendors, cranking out these packages vs. going to the school & children. With more moderately produced & FEWER mailings, you'd have more money going where it's truly needed, the School & the children. And the fact that this non-profit "Machine" is not transparent & refuses to release just how their funding is distributed, what their top people pull in as salaries, & has no charity rating for people to determine if this is where they want their funding to go - this is not the place to put your money. Note their direct mailing lists are also being resold, as other Indian charities now have access to you.

I donated to St. Joseph’s this year for the first time. I will not do this again. I believe my gift was used not for the children but to staff and fund the effort to solicit me for additional gifts. Do not dare to use my hard earned dollars to fill my mailbox with dream catchers, pens and junk which I must convey to the landfill. ZERO stars but I had to give one to submit this.

I don't know how they got my name and I am surely looking into this organization that send out this material. One thing I noticed is that it says it is being sent out from the Friend of St Joseph's Indian School. So that means that is it not directly from the School and they can give whatever amount of the donation to the school and keep the rest for salaries and material. And my guess mostly salaries!
So before I or anyone donates do your homework!

I have been supporting St Josephs for quite a few years and I believe they are doing a wonderful job of caring for and educating the children and families of the Lakota Souix. While some of the negative ratings about fundraising and gifts are always worth researching, I still feel they are not enough to stop my donating what I can. I have had phone calls and greeting cards and e-mails and videos for my review and comment. I have also requested to stop receiving the gifts which I feel could be used by others and my request was honored. So , considering the amount of charities in the U.S. which find a way to my mailbox and believe me they are many and overwhelming, I have to be selective. I am retired military on a fixed income and can only donate a finite amount so the Lakota children and Wounded Warriors along with the USO are my choices . No negativity and stay positive during these trying times. God Bless.

It was by pure happenstance that I came upon this organization.

Upon reading their mission statement and viewing their curriculum and daily schedule, SJIS is truly working diligently to teach these young people to be educated, productive, responsible adults, and to be true to and perpetuate their heritage. There is no way to undo the wrongs of the decisions the US Government made that violated so many treaties signed in blood.

However, moving forward, SJIS is a sterling example of the right thing to do for developing and guiding future generations of The Lakota Sioux.

I am truly happy that I choose this youth-oriented, non-profit as my charitable organization.

St. Joseph's Indian school is a great non-profit organization that i have contributed money to over the years im actually about 10% to 20% Native. I wish someday I could attend one of the Pow-wows. Maybe next year. It is a great school for the natives.

-Mitch

I have been receiving very nice - and expensive to produce - solicitations from this organization. Last week Christmas cards, this weekend, a large envelope with a reuseable shopping bag, notepaper, and more cards. I researched and found out the school is affiliated with the priests of the Sacred Heart; however, further research on the school has me re-thinking my donations. Expensive advertising outreach as mentioned, plus nothing about them on Charity Navigator ( because they presumably do not file an online Form 990, which is available to the public), plus employee statements on Glassdoor.com have made me decide to support an organization which spends more on the children it helps and whose numbers of children helped are higher. St Joseph's Indian School employs about 400 people but only supports about 200 children. They also use only .71 of a $1.00 for the organization. I have to wonder where the money is going.

I gave alot of toys until I became aware of the CNN news media report. . I get many mailings that must cost alot to send out. Ive kindly asked to be taken off mailings but the mailings have never stopped.

My recently deceased father donated to this charity. He resided in New York with my mother. The administrator was very sympathetic and told me that they had conversed numerous times with him over the years. She informed me that he had been a donor for 20 years.

I have taken the baton in honour of my departed father to donate to such a worthy and life changing charity.

The school provides educational opportunities and life changing futures to children, teenagers and in turn their families. Education is the seed to a brighter future and this charity provides this to the Native American community.

I am based in London and will continue to make monthly donations (in memory of my father) and also for my respect and love of the Native American people and culture, until the end of my life.

They are taking care of the kids in a special way. Me and my mother both are donors to them on a regular basis. I love the spiritual and educational aspect of the school and they do an outstanding job. Being part Blackfoot I understand the need to take care of the children. The school is a blessing.

The Indian nations have been left out for many years in the United States of America in being treated as true Americans.

We've donated at Christmas time for the last few years, and we've always gotten rewarded with a few note pads, personalized address labels and bookmarks after the 1st of year. And they don't drown your spambox nor your physical mailbox w unwanted solicitation all year long, so thats def a +plus. 4☆s

Im happy to help these young people. They dont just ask for donations. They send you little things showing they want to show their appreciation. I give as much as im able to and appreciate hearing from the Lakota children quite often.

Last summer my husband and I visited St.Joseph’s Indian School as part of a driving adventure through ND & SD. We attended the PowWow in September. The school opened its campus to donors for tours, student demonstrations of powwow dancers, and an inspiring powwow with students dancing & playing drums. We met dorm parents, teachers, and students. We loved it!! All members of the school community love their mission and the children. SJS is a place of love, caring, and commitment. We have donated to the school in recent years & will continue as long as we can. The many letters, pictures of the children, stories about the school activities make us feel a part of this much needed school for Native American children. Our visit confirmed what we had already decided about SJS. Its fundraising efforts are fruitful and well worth every cent we send. May God bless them in their work.

I have been giving sporadically for years, but recently began giving monthly through a credit card. We as a people owe our Native Americans so much. St. Joseph Indian school provides a nurturing learning environment which fosters the dignity and gifts of each child giving them the wonderful gifts of love, education and appreciation for their heritage. St. Joseph is one of several Catholic Indian Mission Schools I am blessed to be able to help support.

I support St Joseph's Indian School as their newsletters are filled with the awesome work they do in educating the children in school, life and in keeping and passing on their traditions. The newsletters are inspiring and make me feel good about donating and the work they do.

I started my donations in the early 80s as part of the Federal Government's CFC and have continued to do so during retirement. My wife and I feel it is one of the most important charities we donate to. To see the faces of the young children and hear of the amazing accomplishments is always heart warming. it gives us hope that the so many wrongs of years past are being righted and St. Joseph's appears to be at the forefront of that. Any change begins with the young for the future is theirs.

We hope on day to visit in September as it is part of our bucket list.

Maury & Francie

I have been a supporter of the St. Joseph's Indian School for quite a while in donating what I can and praying. The Natives are the most tortured people. They are the ancestors of the original people of these lands and we owe it to them to protect, respect and support. St. Joseph's does that for the youth, the future of the Natives. I am grateful for this organization that cares for a lost people. Beautiful people that I see when receiving news letters and thanks for the little I do. It makes me smile to see them thriving in a place that cares and develops humans who deserve this and more.

I have been donating to this school for a couple years now. They never fail to include me in what ever they are doing. I enjoy seeing the children and celebrate their success at rodeo as they do. St.Joseph's goes to great lengths to see that every child that asks is taken care of and that is very important. Some of these children have nothing and need all the help they are given. I like seeing them do good in their studies and continue on to higher schools of learning.
I am 77 years old now and would enjoy seeing the campus but never will. So I appreciate them sharing with me. Carry on the good work you do and keeping for the children.

The reason that I support St. Joseph Indian School is because the Native American Indians were here before we were. They were pushed off their land and put on reservations. We actually took their land from them. When I found St. Joseph Indian School, I knew that I needed to donate to them.

I am a family member of the first generation that were born in the USA and we come from working class Italian roots. When our parents arrived in a new world they were searching for a brighter future for their children and although times were tough in 1902 for immigrants, they worked hard and gave us a life that was prosperous. All ten of us children were raised to work hard and to have respect for others and we grew to be successful in life. I am now 80 years old and I have long believed in charity because my father was a generous man and he taught me the value of giving to others who were not as well off as us. Native American history describes the great pride that Indians held in their traditions and also how they survived the changes that were thrust upon them. My parents were exposed to an immense change in life because of their language difference and the lifestyle they were accustomed to. They were a proud people who lived the American dream and now I feel the same great pride when I donate to St. Joseph's Indian School. I sincerely pray that others might find the same pride and become donors to a very worthwhile cause. St. Joseph's instills pride in their students and it shows in their accomplishments and their success in life. God bless the children and bless the school for providing the kind of education and care that they need to grow into responsible adults. SR Pistachio

I am so honored to be a long-time supporter of St. Joseph's Indian School. At St. Joseph's, children and their families are given hope for a good education and an even better future. I am just sorry that I live so far away. I hope some day to visit St. Joseph's to meet some of the wonderful children.

This is a charitable organization that truly supports the future of Lakota Sioux children. After the damage done to all our tribes, this school is a force for positive change for these kids and their families. Some charities show the poor condition of various situations to make one feel guilty. The St Joe’s Indian School makes me feel joyful for what little I can do to help.

I have been sending 'care packages' to St Joseph's for some time now . They are so appreciative.
I feel it is important to support them . It is sad that Native Americans are neglected by the US government. They deserve our help.