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About Us

Who We Are

Serving with Purpose

Serving the state since 1920, LSS of SD is a responsive community partner, evolving to meet the needs and challenges of South Dakotans of all ages, faiths, races, and economic statuses. Our vision is that all people in South Dakota will be healthy, safe, and accepted.

  • At the heart of this vision is community collaboration, prevention, and a diverse continuum of service lines dedicated to:

    At the heart of this vision is community collaboration, prevention, and a diverse continuum of service lines dedicated to:

    • Strengthening families and

    • Keeping children in their homes and communities.

Today and every day, we strive to create defining moments for those we serve. What sets us apart is our diverse range of services, which allows us to collaborate effectively to meet the unique needs of individuals, families, and communities. Whether providing mental health counseling, adoption services, financial guidance, family stabilization, youth mentoring, residential care, or juvenile justice alternatives, everyone who walks through our doors receives support unique to their circumstances.
 


Who We Are

OUR MISSION

Inspired by God's love, we care for, support, and strengthen individuals, families, and communities.
 

OUR VISION

All people in South Dakota will be healthy, safe, and accepted.
 

OUR VALUES

At LSS of South Dakota, we believe that God’s love calls us to serve all people with dignity and compassion. As a social ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, our faith guides everything we do, shaping the values that define our work and our commitment to those we serve. 
 

  • COMPASSIONATE
    COMPASSIONATE

    We will be empathetic in our interactions with others and non-judgmental in the delivery of our services.

  • APPRECIATIVE
    APPRECIATIVE

    We will acknowledge the quality, significance, and magnitude of the contributions of our clients and employees and seek to develop their capacity.

  • RESPECTFUL
    RESPECTFUL

    We will engage in collaborative and professional relationships with our clients, partnership organizations, and each other.

  • ETHICAL
    ETHICAL

    We will demonstrate our commitment to quality services and high standards in acts, words, and deeds.

  • STRATEGIC
    STRATEGIC

    We will anticipate and respond strategically to service trends and our communities’ needs.

OUR PEOPLE

Supported by countless volunteers, donors, and board members, we are a dedicated team of caregivers, advocates, social workers, navigators, case managers, teachers, therapists, accountants, counselors, and more—serving Sioux Falls, the Black Hills, and every community in between.

 

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  • - Elizabeth Duffy, Governing Board of Directors
    - Elizabeth Duffy, Governing Board of Directors

    “As people, our most challenging times help us realize the depth of our strength and resilience. And in these moments, I’m honored to witness that LSS is there, embodying what it means to support one another.”

  • - Rebecca Kiesow-Knudsen, LSS President/CEO
    - Rebecca Kiesow-Knudsen, LSS President/CEO

    “We are among the most robust and diverse social service agencies in the state committed to strengthening families and empowering resilient communities. Every day, our team supports clients at defining moments in their lives, promoting stability, hope, and wholeness.”

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