DakotAbilities

01/07/2026

We’re honored to be part of Hy-Vee’s Operation Helpful Smiles—a community program that turns everyday grocery trips into meaningful impact.

From January 14–20, shoppers at Sioux Falls Hy-Vee stores can round up their purchase at checkout, with every dollar donated supporting our mission at DakotAbilities. Thanks to Hy-Vee and its program sponsors, all customer donations are matched up to $1,000 for the week—and this year, an additional outside donor will match contributions as well, doubling the impact even further.

It’s an easy way to give, and every round-up helps strengthen our Sioux Falls community. Thank you, Hy-Vee, for 20 years of giving back—and thank you to every shopper who chooses to participate. , we create a warm and welcoming community enriching the lives of those we support.

01/06/2026

“Ordinary actions. Extraordinary difference.”

Volunteering with DakotAbilities doesn’t require special skills — just an open heart. By showing up, you help reveal hidden strengths, build meaningful connections, and grow in empathy and understanding. That connection doesn’t just brighten someone else’s day; it can change yours, too.

🤲 Want to experience it for yourself? Read more and consider joining the mission:

If your New Year’s resolutions include better relationships, learning new skills, or finding ways to step away from the screen, volunteering at DakotAbilities is your chance to turn those goals into real impact. You don’t need any prior experience; just bring your energy, curiosity, and a genuin...

01/05/2026

Construction update!🚧🏗

Walls and roofs are complete on our two new twin homes. These properties will replace a decades-old 16-person residence built in the 1980s.

Specifically designed for individuals with complex medical needs who require on-site nursing care, these new twin homes will provide safe, comfortable living arrangements that preserve privacy and dignity by reducing the number of roommates and shared spaces.

Want to learn more about this exciting development? Click here: https://www.dakotabilities.org/services/expanding-housing-to-meet-community-needs

01/02/2026

We’re honored to be selected by Pomegranate Market as one of the organizations kicking off their giving program in 2026. Support like this strengthens opportunities for engagement, growth, and inclusion across Sioux Falls. We’re grateful to Pomegranate Market and to everyone who chooses to give back in ways that uplift our local community.

, we create a warm and welcoming community enriching the lives of those we support!

Starting in January, we have three new organizations that you can now donate towards. For every bag you bring in, we will donate 5¢ to the organization you choose. Our new organizations are DakotAbilities, Feeding South Dakota, and HorsePower.

Plus, you can now donate at our downtown location when bringing your bags there!

Thank you to our customers who helped raise $188.40 for Sioux Falls Cares, $167.40 for Reach Literacy, and $259.90 for The Banquet Sioux Falls!

01/02/2026

Please join us in celebrating our December Living the Mission Award recipient: Heidi Loof, our Director of Residential Services.

Nominated by her peers, Heidi exemplifies above-and-beyond dedication, compassion, and leadership. Her open-door management style, commitment to empowering teams, and tireless advocacy for the people we support truly bring our mission to life: Together, we create a warm and welcoming community enriching the lives of those we support.

We are equally grateful for all of our December nominees—your passion and care do not go unnoticed!

👉 Learn more about Heidi's nomination and what’s happening at DakotAbilities by visiting our News & Events page: https://www.dakotabilities.org/news-events/december-living-the-mission-award

12/31/2025

As this year comes to a close, we are reminded that none of this work happens alone. The relationships we share, the families who trust us, and the community members who stand beside us make everything we do possible.

Because of your support, adults with disabilities are surrounded by care, opportunity, and belonging. Together, we help create lives filled with purpose, connection, and dignity, every single day.

While we reflect on the year behind us and look ahead, we are deeply thankful for those who believe in this work and walk alongside us. If you are able, please consider making a year-end gift to DakotAbilities. Your support helps ensure adults with disabilities continue to have the relationships, resources, and community they deserve.

Thank you for being part of who we are and what we do! Together, we create a warm and welcoming community enriching the lives of those we support: https://www.dakotabilities.org/get-involved/donate

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12/31/2025

12/30/2025

As we move into a new year, we’re reflecting on the DakotAbilities community over the past 60 years.

Attached are photos of Shirley: one capturing her New Year’s resolution to spread smiles and cheer, symbolized by the three smiley faces displayed in our front office, and another cherished image from decades ago at a UCP event, where her bright smile was just as evident.

Shirley is a familiar face at DakotAbilities, actively participating in our day services' curriculum and activities. Her warmth, consistency, and natural connection with others reflect the spirit of inclusion and belonging we’ve upheld for 60 years.

As we step into the year ahead, let’s be a little more like Shirley. Show up. Be kind. Create connections. Give back to the Sioux Falls community and continue building the culture of care that has defined DakotAbilities for six decades. https://www.dakotabilities.org/history

Happy New Year from all of us at DakotAbilities.

12/29/2025

For 60 years, DakotAbilities has witnessed firsthand how education, advocacy, and landmark laws have transformed what is possible for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. What once were limited opportunities and closed doors have shifted toward inclusion, dignity, and the right to live, learn, and belong in community. This article reflects on the generations who lived through that change—and the people, policies, and perseverance that made progress possible. It also serves as a reminder that today’s meaningful days are built on decades of commitment from families, advocates, staff, and supporters.

As we celebrate 60 years of impact, we are also looking ahead to what continued belief and action can achieve. We invite you to read, reflect, and explore how far we’ve come—and why continued support still matters!

Since the beginning of the century, education and laws have transformed the lives of people with disabilities.

12/26/2025

Green? Check.
Grinchy? Absolutely.
Joyful? Always.

A few highlights from our holiday break before we head into the weekend. Wishing everyone a cheerful, cozy, and happy few days ahead from all of us at DakotAbilities.

12/22/2025

Internet and digital technologies are a primary way the people we support at DakotAbilities communicate, connect, and participate in everyday life—from social media and messaging to online shopping and services. Gaps in safety awareness can increase vulnerability. That is why prioritizing internet and technology safety education is essential to building confidence, independence, and informed decision-making online.

Classes like these are an integral part of our Day Services educational curriculum, reinforcing practical skills that support independence and inclusion. Thank you to our incredible volunteers, like Tina, who share their time with us and bring extensive expertise in these areas!