Through our continuum of services, we’re helping people across South Dakota find the stability and support they need to feel healthy, safe, and accepted. See the impact through some of our clients’ stories.
Simeon
Simeon slept through most of his freshman year of high school. Overwhelmed by severe anxiety, he failed all but two classes and eventually refused to attend school altogether. Despite his mom’s best efforts to help, Simeon isolated himself in his room, spending his days sleeping and playing video games.
After enrolling at LSS Residential Services’ Summit Oaks Center, Simeon's transformation was remarkable. Not only did he emerge from his shell, but he also became a star student—earning a prestigious scholarship to jumpstart his college career.
Tara
When Tara and her husband moved to Sioux Falls to start their business, life seemed full of promise. But soon, her husband fell into drug use, began abusing her, and eventually went to prison, leaving her to raise their children on her own. The stress of keeping her family afloat, combined with her kids' destructive behavior, pushed Tara to a breaking point.
A counselor at her kids' school connected Tara to LSS CARES Wraparound services. With the support of her family partner, Angel, Tara began rebuilding her relationships with her children and regaining financial stability. Today, she feels confident about the direction her family is headed.
Eileen & Akina
After retiring from teaching, Eileen became an LSS mentor to stay involved in kids' lives. That’s when she began meeting with Akina in her second-grade lunchroom. Over the years, the pair has shared plenty of new experiences—from riding go-carts to dancing at concerts and having picnics in the park. Their friendship has inspired Akina to approach her future with confidence and curiosity.
“She encourages me to do more things and do what I love and to always be myself no matter what.”
