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Youth Empowerment

Juvenile Justice Services

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Guiding Youth Beyond Justice Involvement

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Youth who experience incarceration as juveniles are three times more likely to face incarceration as adults. Instead of detention, we provide guidance, resources, and a safer way forward through alternatives to detention and counseling for both youth and their families.

For over a decade, LSS has been a leader in juvenile justice reform in South Dakota, developing community-based solutions such as Arise Youth Centers and specialized JJRI Counseling Services that help young people move beyond the justice system and toward a brighter future.

 


Arise Youth Center

Our Arise Youth Center partners with local law enforcement to offer the following services:

  • Reception Center

    Law enforcement can transport your child to a safe, secure environment until you or an approved guardian can pick them up.

  • Shelter Care

    If returning home isn’t an option, Shelter Care offers 24/7 care for up to 30 days.

  • Runaway & Homeless Youth Services

    We offer support, resources, and up to 21 days of shelter to runaway, homeless, and at-risk youth.

  • Evening Report Center

    The Evening Report Center allows youth to remain in their homes and communities while receiving ongoing services and support.


Runaway and homeless youth services are available through Basic Center Federal Grant #90CY6684-01-00 from Administration for Children and Families.

Juvenile Justice Reinvestment Initiative

Through the Juvenile Justice Reinvestment Initiative (JJRI), our licensed counselors provide specialized therapy to help youth move beyond the justice system and build a brighter future. Our evidence-based interventions address the root causes of behaviors, strengthen family relationships, and equip youth with the skills they need to make positive choices.

A Safer Way Forward

At LSS, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to grow, heal, and succeed. Together, we can create a safer way forward. Services are provided in homes, schools, and community settings to ensure accessibility and effectiveness.

  • Functional Family Therapy (FFT): Strengthens family communication, reduces conflict, and builds a supportive home environment.
  • Aggression Replacement Training (ART): Teaches social skills, anger management, and decision-making to promote positive behavior.
  • Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT): Helps youth recognize harmful thinking patterns and develop better judgment.
  • Individual & Family Counseling: Supports emotional well-being, trauma recovery, and behavior change.
To make a referral, please call 605-444-7643.
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“Seeing the light come back to a child’s eyes never gets old. It’s as much of a gift to me as it is to them to see them become children again.”

Vice President of Program Operations, Staci Jonson
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