In the fall of 2024, Stax.ai embarked on its second volunteering event at Hunkapi Farms. For some of the staff, it was their second time amongst the equestrians and other farm critters. Apparently, Kaylee had an unforgettable picture holding a chicken the first time, so we had to recreate that. For newer staff members like myself, it was our first time volunteering at the farm. Side note, I had been to the farm before to attend a wedding and it was fantastic. 

After we exchanged pleasantries with farm staff, we got to work sanitizing around eight 10’x10’ shaded dog kennels with concrete floors and fenced walls. I know that might sound rough, but it is honestly the ideally temporary dwelling for a furry friend. 

We needed to clean the kennels because they were to be temporary homes for the dogs while their owners were being treated for various medical calamities. Given that “Hunkapi” is a Lakota word meaning, “"I am related to everyone.", our mindset was to clean these kennels as if our own dogs would be living there. So, we rolled up our sleeves, picked up our brooms and bleach, and got to scrubbing.  After around 45 minutes and moderate calorie expenditure, the kennels were sanitized and we could picture the dogs in there saying, “woof!”.

Not only was this a great opportunity to serve the community, it was also a place where our team came together. I am grateful to work for an organization that emphasizes community service and plans events where staff can interact with each other outside of the office environment. It allows us to show different sides of our personalities which naturally fosters a stronger team. I observed  a couple values that  the staff shares, these are  “service to others” and “growth mindset”. These are important life and business skills because they ensure that behaviors and products/services are always meeting those in need where they are. 

Since our last time at Hunkapi, our team has grown considerably. I am looking forward to our next event to take pictures with chickens, serve the community, and grow in areas I haven’t yet considered. Thanks again to Hunkpai Farms for having the team at Stax.ai serve your cause.