Rapid City, SD – OneHeart, a local nonprofit that helps residents secure housing, employment and long‑term stability, has highlighted a striking disparity in who is accessing its services. According to the organization, Native Americans account for roughly 64% of the individuals who walk through OneHeart’s doors, even though they make up only about 8% of the city’s overall population.
Why the gap matters
Chadwick Ratigan, OneHeart’s chief of operations and programming, said the numbers alone do not tell the full story. “A statistic can tell us who walks through this door, but it can’t tell us the story as to what brought them here,” Ratigan explained. He added that the disparity should prompt the community to ask why such a gap exists and how it can be addressed.
Complex factors at play
Ratigan noted that there is no single explanation for the disparity. Historical trauma, limited access to education, persistent poverty and barriers to health care all play a role. He emphasized that culture must be part of the solution, especially for younger generations. “What does that culture look like? That’s what they care about. So it’s important to consider that whenever you’re shaping an organization and its culture on its own,” he said.
Barriers beyond statistics
Many OneHeart clients face transportation challenges, lack of reliable childcare and limited educational opportunities. Ratigan said the organization strives to provide a safe environment where individuals can focus on their future without fear of judgment. “We provide a safe environment where they feel that they can concentrate on their future,” he said.
Building understanding through dialogue
OneHeart believes that genuine cultural understanding is key to breaking down barriers. The nonprofit encourages participation in community events such as the Black Hills Powwow and urges residents to ask questions without fear. “Understanding not just Native American culture, but also other cultures, helps break down those barriers of understanding,” Ratigan said.
Looking ahead
The organization’s goal is long‑term stability for families and honest conversation without finger‑pointing. Ratigan hopes that by sharing the data publicly – first on his LinkedIn, then on OneHeart’s Facebook pages – the conversation will become more progressive and solution‑focused. “The whole point of sharing that post was just to start a conversation and bring awareness to it,” he said.
OneHeart’s leadership invites community members, faith groups, local businesses and city officials to join the dialogue, emphasizing that a collaborative approach rooted in cultural respect can help bridge the aid gap and strengthen families across Rapid City.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
