Decision Creates Significant Uncertainty for Program and Festival of Cultures
SIOUX FALLS, SD—LSS of South Dakota was notified by the City of Sioux Falls on Friday, December 19, that the City would no longer financially support the Multi-Cultural Center. Current funding ends December 31. The elimination of financial support creates significant uncertainty for the future of the Multi-Cultural Center and the annual Festival of Cultures.
“The City of Sioux Falls has funded the Multi-Cultural Center for 28 years, and the sudden end of funding is a blow the program can’t absorb,” says Rebecca Kiesow-Knudsen, President and CEO of LSS, which operates the Multi-Cultural Center. “While it’s possible a donor could come forward to support the program in the short term, it needs ongoing financial support to remain sustainable. Hard decisions are ahead.”
The Multi-Cultural Center has been a partnership between the City, Minnehaha County and the independent nonprofit since its inception. LSS began operating the Multi-Cultural Center in 2022. In 2025, the City paid $146,000 to support operations of the Multi-Cultural Center, which offers important services including interpreter services, workforce development, parenting education, medical interpreter training, drivers’ education, swimming lessons, youth programming and more, as well as offering a venue for community events.
The 28th annual Festival of Cultures took place in June 2025 and traditionally has brought every cross-section of the community together to learn from each other and celebrate all the heritages that make Sioux Falls a welcoming and thriving city. It has included a day-long schedule of live entertainment, a Global Village, local vendor booths, food trucks, fun kids’ activities and more.
“The Multi-Cultural Center strives to create a safe and accepting community where people of all cultural backgrounds are seen, heard and celebrated. It’s a significant effort in a time when building a sense of belonging is more important than ever,” says Kiesow-Knudsen.
If you would like to support the Multi-Cultural Center, now is the time. Donate today at Donate.LssSD.org.
About LSS of South Dakota
LSS responds to changing needs in South Dakota communities. Our mission: Inspired by God’s love, we care for, support and strengthen individuals, families and communities and believe in the vision that all people in South Dakota will be healthy, safe and accepted. LSS is one of the largest private non-profit human service agencies in South Dakota serving people of all ages, faiths, races and economic statuses with professional, confidential and affordable services statewide.
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