Keya Foundation Inc

The Keya Foundation, based in Eagle Butte, SD, is located on and serves the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe (CRST) reservation—one of the largest in the United States, spanning 4,267 square miles and home to nearly 10,000 residents. Our community continues to navigate the effects of systemic inequities and long-standing underinvestment, yet it is also a place of deep cultural strength, resilience, and leadership.

Founded with a vision for community-led change, The Keya Foundation’s mission is to build partnerships with Cheyenne River communities through educational and social health initiatives that center and celebrate Lakota identity. We believe in investing in ourselves, our families, and our homelands to ensure they remain healthy, resilient, and thriving for generations to come.

Our work spans food security, environmental stewardship, youth development, and community wellness. Through strong partnerships at the local, state, and national levels, we strive to create a community where Lakota values guide decision-making, where families have access to the resources they need, and where every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Our team is composed of both Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Members and community members, ensuring strong representation and local leadership:

Board of Directors:

• Marcia O'Leary – Community Member

• Candace Lee – Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Member

• Karen Little Wounded – Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Member

• Lyndsey Ducheneaux – Community Member

• Courtney Claussen – Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Member

• Sianna Moran – Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Member

• Julissa Fillmore – Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Member
  
  

Staff

• Jaylynn Farlee, Director – Community Member

• Carleyn Petersen, Project Coordinator – Community Member

• Eva Fielder, Student Intern (Oglala Lakota College), Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Member

Outside of our organization’s official structure, we work alongside more than 20 local, state, and national partners, as well as numerous community volunteers.