National Collaborations Impact South Dakota Families

LSS of South Dakota engages in various cohorts at both regional and national levels. Many of these cohorts fall under the umbrella of Lutheran Services in America, LSA, a network comprising 300 health and human service agencies in 1,400 communities across the nation.

Amy Witt, the Chief Program Officer at LSS, emphasizes the value of involvement with LSA, and the connections made with national partners. “Through LSA and other national and local partners, we gain access to significant resources and best practices providing a broader perspective on our work,” says Witt. “And for us, it really has focused on ensuring that youth and families are living in safe, stable homes which aligns with our strategic vision.”

Participation allows LSS to learn about new methods, research and strategies that have proven successful in other areas of the country. It provides opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations about how we might improve outcomes for families and communities in our state. Then follow up with data and outcome measurements to ensure we are empowering families and addressing disparities.

Keeping Families Together at Home

LSS is active in the national FAMILY STABILIZATION INITIATIVE which works to empower families to stay together. This has given rise to a cohort spanning four states that focuses on preventative programming that keeps kids who are at risk of child welfare or juvenile justice involvement with their families and in their home. LSS Family Stabilization Services, also known as CARES Wraparound, was created in 2021 as a result of these conversations.

“These are families who would otherwise fall through the cracks. They aren’t being neglectful in the home, but they are really struggling,” says Witt.

Results-Based Strategy

LSS advocates for and benefits children and youth at a higher level through the RESULTS NETWORK (part of the LSA Results Innovation Lab) which focuses on addressing racial disparities in child welfare and includes 17 agencies in 12 states. Witt’s leadership and experience in children and family services positioned her as peer leader guiding teams in their work.

The cohorts follow a Results-Based Leadership format. Amy reflects, “It’s about doing the work better and using tools provided including access to national consultants to challenge us and move the work forward.”

The engagement has impacted LSS’s external initiatives as well as played a significant role in leadership development. “The tools and skills acquired through the cohort are utilized in leadership training, benefiting both internal teams and the families we work with,” continues Witt.

In addition, LSS is active in the RURAL AGING ACTION NETWORK, focusing on addressing gaps in care in rural America. As a result, LSS launched Older Adults Rural Network (OARN), a pilot program in Douglas and Charles Mix Counties and now expanding to Bon Homme and Hutchinson counties. The program helps identify resources for people ages 55 and older who may need help with transportation, food security, reducing social isolation, healthcare navigation/referrals, and safe housing.