Helping Hands

Honoring the Volunteers of All American Indian Days

All American Indian Days was sustained not only by visionary leadership, but by an extraordinary network of volunteers whose labor, generosity, and goodwill made the celebration possible. Hundreds of individuals—families, civic organizations, businesses, and community groups—gave their time and resources day and night to welcome thousands of Native American participants and visitors to Sheridan.

These volunteers organized parades and performances, prepared meals, hosted Miss Indian American contestants in their homes, constructed stages and arbors, hauled more than a thousand tipi poles from the Bighorn Mountains, installed waterlines and sanitation for campers, hosted families at the fairgrounds, and ensured that every detail—large and small—was met with care. Their work supported athletic competitions, horse races, arts and crafts exhibitions, dancing, drumming, and ceremonies that extended late into the night.

The volunteer effort behind All American Indian Days was remarkable not only for its scale, but for its purpose. At a time when racial discrimination against Native Americans was widespread and legally sanctioned, this community-wide collaboration sought to build mutual respect, understanding, and hospitality. Many participants later described All American Indian Days as a humanitarian project—one rooted in cooperation and shared responsibility—well before the passage of national civil rights legislation.

The names listed below represent thousands of hours of service and a deep commitment to intercultural partnership. While many volunteers served in multiple capacities over the years, we have organized these acknowledgments into broad categories reflecting the ways individuals and organizations contributed to the success and legacy of All American Indian Days.

1) General Volunteers
Individuals whose service supported All American Indian Days in countless essential ways—often behind the scenes—and whose contributions cannot be tied to a single formal role.

2) Booklet Writers and Creators
Writers, editors, and contributors who helped produce the annual All American Indian Days publications, documenting the event and sharing its story with regional and national audiences.

3) Advertising Volunteers
Community members who promoted the event through advertising, publicity, and outreach, helping ensure strong participation and public support.

4) Photographers and Studios
Photographers and studios who documented All American Indian Days, preserving its visual history for future generations.

5) Businesses
Local and regional businesses that donated goods, services, expertise, and financial support—from food and supplies to equipment, awards, and transportation.

6) Civic Clubs
Civic and service organizations that undertook major responsibilities, fundraising efforts, and volunteer coordination in support of the event.

7) Churches and Faith Organizations
Churches, choirs, and religious groups that provided hospitality, music, volunteers, and spiritual support, including interfaith participation in Sunday services.