Cokata Wiconi - Midnight Basketball
Healthy Bodies for Healthy Minds
Diabetes, heart disease and obesity are just a few of the serious health issues that disproportionately affect Native American populations in the United States. The Department of Health and Human services estimates that Native Americans are 2 times as likely to develop Diabetes. According to the Center for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in our communities. The time to be active is now.
At the Cokata Wiconi Teen Center, we offer an "Open Gym" night weekly, where young people can utilize our basketball court, or run drills with their sports teams. We are also in the process of collecting weight room equipment, and setting up regular walking groups and yoga sessions. However, our signature Wellness program at this time, is still our Midnight Basketball Program.
Cheyenne River has a 10pm curfew for youth under 18. Of course, it is a reality that teens don't always follow the rules. Local law enforcement and community members were concerned for the safety and wellbeing of youth, who have few opportunities for recreation that are healthy and positive.
For this reason, CRYP created the Midnight Basketball Program for teens 13-18, during which participants can play basketball or hang out with friends in a supervised, controlled area. The sessions are held from 10pm - 2am on Friday nights during the summer months. Local authorities allow a 15 minute grace period for the teen to return home, appointing officers to provide extra security for the event. At the end of the 8 week program, we host a 3-on-3 tournament with prizes and music provided by local D.J.'s. The authorities and community praise the program for its help in decreasing juvenile crime and support us through volunteering to chaperone the sessions and even play ball with some of the teens.
