Rapid City reentry program supports system-impacted Native families

I.Am.Legacy, a Rapid City-based organization focused on supporting people impacted by incarceration and their families, hosted a three-day seminar called “From Chains to Ceremony” this month at the Ramkota Hotel, according to Native Sun News Today. The organization was founded by Eric Brings White after he faced barriers to employment and housing following his release from prison, despite earning a social work degree and completing parole early.

Co-founder Morgan Brings White said I.Am.Legacy opened in 2019 as a culturally grounded community hub for people leaving jail or prison and their relatives. The organization offers jail-based programming, recovery support and cultural activities aimed at addressing generational trauma, addiction and reentry challenges. According to the Prison Policy Initiative, Native Americans account for nearly 57% of the federal caseload in South Dakota. Morgan Brings White said the organization is open to everyone and works to help families navigate systems including Child Protective Services and the Department of Social Services.