Sisseton Learning Camp

July 22 – 25, 2024 Camp dates
July 20 – 27, 2024Volunteer dates including travel

About the Camp

The Sisseton Learning Camp on the Lake Traverse Reservation started in 2008 and was held at the Goodwill Presbyterian Church.  The camp moved to the Tiospa Zina Tribal School in 2010 and was held in conjunction with the school’s summer school program at the school. This camp was put on hiatus at the end of the 2012 camp season.  The camp restarted in 2018 as the Sisseton Family Learning Camp (SFLC) which allows families to be a part of the camp as campers and staff members. The camp was put on hiatus after the 2019 camp, First and Franklin Presbyterian has agreed to be the new Baltimore Presbytery partner for the 2023 Sisseton Learning Camp.

Camp Format

The 2023 Sisseton Learning Camp will be held at the Christian Outreach Center in Sisseton, SD. The camp is 4 days long, Monday to Thursday, from 10:30 AM until 2:00 PM. Campers are divided into three age groups, incorporating children Kindergarten – 2nd Grade, 3rd – 5th Grade and 6th  – 9th Grade. Camp Counselors and Station Leaders are comprised of youth in High School through Adult.

Opportunities for Building Fellowship and Mutual Understanding

There are many opportunities for fellowship and education during the week.  The Baltimore staff members will worship with the members of one of the Dakota Presbytery partner churches (Long Hollow, Good Will, Ascension, Mayasan, Buffalo Lake and Lake Traverse Presbyterian Churches) on Sunday morning and socialize after church at a potluck luncheon.  At least one cultural presentation is arranged during the week and Baltimore staff will share evening meals with their Dakota Presbytery partners. The final camp activity will be a Family Night that will invite the Sisseton campers and their families to enjoy camp memories and a potluck supper with their new Baltimore and Dakota Presbytery friends.

Volunteer Requirements

New Staff Interviews – April 7th – 12:30 – 3:30 at First and Franklin Presbyterian or via Zoom

The Sisseton Learning Camp (SLC) is seeking 14 staff members. Staff members will be comprised of a mixture of, high school and college students, and other adults of all ages. Camp staff must have completed one year of high school (9th grade) by the end of the school year. Some background with children is helpful as camp staff members need to be comfortable around children and interested in forming relationships with the campers and their families.

Mandatory Staff Training

  • June 9th – 12:00 – 3:00 First and Franklin Presbyterian
  • July 7th – 12:00 – 3:00 PM First and Franklin Presbyterian

Mandatory staff training is provided so that all staff members will feel prepared for a successful learning camp week. The training will include mandatory child protection training, mandatory cultural sensitivity training, staff building experiences, and information regarding the camp. Lunch will be provided at the training sessions.

Accommodations

Baltimore staff members will be staying at one of the Sisseton motels during their time in Sisseton. Motel information will be shared at the staff training.

Opportunities for Learning, Travel, and Fun

Various field trip opportunities are available for volunteers. Possibilities include visiting Nicollet Tower, swimming at one of the many nearby lakes, and hiking at Sica Hollow State Park.

Contact Information

Sisseton@Baltimoredakotalearningcamps.org