Workforce development initiative - thunder valley community development corporation proposes a workforce development initiative designed to serve lakota young adults ages 18-26 on the pine ridge…

The Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Native Americans awarded Thunder Valley Community Development Corporation $1.8 million on September 30, 2025, under the Native American Programs (CFDA 93.612) initiative to deliver workforce development training to Lakota young adults on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

Thunder Valley Community Development Corporation will deliver comprehensive training in bison herd management and regenerative agriculture to three cohorts of ten participants each over three years, with each cohort completing a structured six-month course. Participants, ages 18–26, will gain hands-on experience in herd management, rotational grazing methods, and land restoration techniques at Range Unit 506, a 39,904-acre commercial grazing unit. The program integrates Lakota cultural teachings and practical job readiness skills with wraparound support services, mentorship, and career pathway development. Partnership organizations include Turner Ranches, Knife Chief Buffalo Nation Society, and Oglala Lakota College, which collectively support employment pathway creation and cultural connection.

Performance occurs in South Dakota. The award runs through September 29, 2028. The Native American Programs initiative aims to promote economic and social self-sufficiency for American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Native American Pacific Islanders.

Workforce development initiative - thunder valley community development corporation proposes a workforce development initiative designed to serve lakota young adults ages 18-26 on the pine ridge indian reservation. The project will provide comprehensive training in bison herd management and regenerative agriculture through a structured six-month course delivered to three cohorts of ten participants over three years. The program combines hands-on technical training with lakota cultural teachings and practical job readiness skills. Participants will gain experience in areas such as herd management, rotational grazing methods, and land restoration techniques while working at range unit 506, a 39,904-acre commercial grazing unit. The initiative includes wraparound support services, mentorship, and career pathway development. Through partnerships with organizations like turner ranches, knife chief buffalo nation society, and oglala lakota college, the project aims to create viable employment pathways while strengthening connections to lakota cultural practices and values.