The Bootstraps program is a grass-roots effort that addresses community need by providing the tools and atmosphere for self-help to people interested in lifelong learning.

The program was developed during 1988-90 by a group of community leaders from south central South Dakota. It grew out of the innovation and the dedication of community leaders who analyzed the challenges facing not only their profitability, but also their community and their families.

They developed a plan for addressing those challenges by working together and with a variety of agencies to gain expertise and management tools to acheive their goals.

Initial funding for the Bootstraps program came from the SD Conservation Commission's Conservation Grants Fund. Several other agencies signed on to help, including: South Dakota State University Cooperative Extension Service, Todd & Mellette County Conservation Districts, SD Department of Agriculture, and the USDA NRCS (then the SCS). Eventually, other agencies and professionals joined the effort. These included adult farm management specialists, rural mental health providers, the Environmental Protection Agency, SD Department of Environment & Natural Resources, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Building the program...

For more information about Bootstraps, send us an e-mail or order the video.