IMPACT
in Rapid City
Your Generosity in Action
A youth who had often slipped through the cracks found a turning point when a dedicated specialist from Children’s Home Society of South Dakota stepped into her life. Tasked with supporting a family in need, the specialist was met with initial resistance. “When I first went into the home, the youth wasn’t necessarily receptive to me,” she recalls. “The first thing she said to me was, ‘You’re just a social worker.’” But within six months, the same youth was calling her “BFF”—a transformation they both now laugh about.
As trust grew, it became clear that the youth’s mother needed support in building parenting skills to address her child’s struggles. At just 13 years old, the youth had been referred to Family Engagement Services (FES) by the juvenile diversion program due to serious challenges, including self-harm and suicidal thoughts. The specialist became a steadfast advocate, helping the youth access necessary residential treatment while simultaneously working with the mother to strengthen their bond.
The road wasn’t easy. Upon returning home and re-entering the public school system, the youth faced difficulties adjusting. She resisted school and fought with her mother, leaving the family feeling discouraged. But the specialist’s commitment never wavered. She collaborated with the school district to find a placement better suited to the youth’s needs, leading to a dramatic improvement in school attendance and mental health.
After a year of unwavering support, the family “graduated” from the program, having developed the skills and resilience needed to move forward. Reflecting on the journey, the mother’s perspective shifted from despair to hope. She initially doubted the process, saying, “Nothing is ever going to work.” But by the end of their time together, she shared, “This specialist is the only one who has not given up on us and walked away from us.”
This powerful story illustrates the profound impact Family Engagement Services can have. With consistent support, families are able to overcome obstacles, rebuild relationships, and find hope for the future.
Thanks to generous donors like you, United Way of the Black Hills is able to make stories like this possible!