Mission
What we do
Turquoise Tiospaye advances cultural empowerment, digital literacy, workforce readiness, and evidence-based cognitive behavioral intervention (CBI) programming across tribal and rural communities in South Dakota.
Why it matters
We support individuals and families facing barriers to employment, stability, and wellness by building practical skills, strengthening protective factors, and expanding access to trusted community supports.
Cultural empowerment
Grounding programs in respect, identity, and community strength.
Digital literacy
Tools, training, and access to navigate today’s digital world.
CBI-informed skills
Practical methods to reduce risk, strengthen decision-making, and support stability.
Emotional Intelligence
Quick Reflection + Micro-Practice
When you feel pressure rising, your goal isn’t to be “perfect.” Your goal is to be steady—one calm choice at a time. Try this 60-second reset, then move forward with intention.
Breathe in for 4… hold for 2… out for 6. Repeat 3 times. Let your shoulders drop.
Ask: “What’s the next best action that protects my future?” Choose it. Do it calmly.
Emotional intelligence is a practical skill set—how we recognize what we feel, manage stress, communicate clearly, and choose responses that protect our future. We teach it as a strength-building tool, grounded in evidence-based CBI practice and community-centered support.
What We Practice
Self-Awareness
Name what’s happening inside you before it controls the outcome—triggers, patterns, and choices.
Self-Regulation
Pause and respond with intention. Reduce escalation, manage stress, and keep momentum through setbacks.
Empathy & Perspective
Understand others without excusing harm. Build conflict reduction, leadership, and stronger relationships.
Communication & Repair
Tools for hard conversations—speak clearly, listen without defensiveness, and repair trust when needed.
A Simple Tool You Can Use Today: The P.A.U.S.E. Method
- P — Pause: Stop before reacting.
- A — Acknowledge: Name the feeling (anger, fear, shame, overwhelm).
- U — Understand: What triggered it? What story is your mind telling?
- S — Select: Choose the next best action for your future.
- E — Execute: Take one calm step forward (a breath, a boundary, a respectful response).
Framework
Evidence-based + community rooted
We combine proven CBI approaches with culturally respectful community engagement to strengthen outcomes.
Access + dignity
We prioritize approachable services that meet people where they are—without stigma and with practical support.
- Structured cohorts and skill-building sessions
- Community referral pathways and partner coordination
- Follow-up support to reinforce skills and progress
Program Model
Digital Literacy Labs
Hands-on support for devices, email, job applications, online safety, and essential digital skills.
Workforce Readiness
Resume building, interview preparation, soft skills, and connections to partner services.
CBI-Informed Classes
Skills for decision-making, stress management, conflict reduction, and goal setting.
Delivery approach
Small-group sessions, structured curriculum, and individualized goal planning with practical supports.
Partnership ecosystem
We collaborate with libraries, schools, CBOs, workforce partners, and community-led organizations.
Impact
Skills gained
Improved digital confidence, communication, and job readiness.
Stability strengthened
Better decision-making, reduced conflict, and stronger follow-through.
Community connection
More access to supportive resources and positive networks.
- Participant progress tracking and milestone documentation
- Partner referrals and warm handoffs
- Ongoing improvement using feedback and outcomes data
Donate
Make a donation
Your support helps expand digital access, workforce readiness, and CBI-informed services across tribal and rural communities.
Other ways to help
Partnerships, in-kind support, devices for digital labs, volunteer expertise, and program sponsorships are welcomed.
Contact
Let’s build together
Reach out to collaborate on programs, referrals, training delivery, or funding partnerships.
info@turquoisetiospaye.org (or your preferred inbox)
Turquoise Tiospaye is a South Dakota 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 39-4250862).