A gift of love from Wisconsin

Rosie wanted to do a senior project that would make a difference.

“Wouldn’t it be cool if I could find a project that combined flying and charity work?” she asked her mother over coffee one day.

Rosie’s mother, Ruby, had always been interested in Native American history and eventually began to support Native American causes, including Cheyenne River Indian Outreach (CRIO) and St. Joseph's Indian School, one of CRIO’s sister organizations also run by the Priests of the Sacred Heart.

“We discovered both missions were in South Dakota and we thought ‘this is it — she can fly west!’”

Rosie flew in from Wisconsin with her mother to donate
school supplies and a monetary gift to CRIO.
They are pictured with Margaret, CRIO Executive Director.

And Rosie began planning a way to use her pilot’s license to help Native American families on the prairies of South Dakota.

She rallied her classmates in Burlington, Wisconsin to donate everything from school supplies and toiletries to clothing and coloring books. They even collected $800 in donations for CRIO!

When the weather finally cooperated, Rosie and her mother flew to Eagle Butte, South Dakota to present a check and the donated items to Margaret, Executive Director of CRIO.

Rosie’s classmates at Burlington High School gathered backpacks,
school supplies, clothing and monetary donations for the Lakota children
and families on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation.

“We’re so grateful for Rosie’s dedication to our mission!” said Margaret. “Without her and others like her, we would not be able to provide for the children who need our child services center. We would not be able to provide backpacks and school clothes for children who have fled violent situations with their mothers. Our clients take such risks to give their children a chance … it fills my heart with gratitude to know there are people who care as much as we do. Rosie, her mother and her classmates have made a real difference.”

Wopila tanka — many thanks — Rosie, for your dedication to the Lakota (Sioux) children and families helped by CRIO!