South Dakota Department of Human Services

05/13/2026

Taking charge of your health means staying informed, asking questions, and making choices that work for you. During Older Americans Month, the Department of Human Services (DHS) highlights the supports available to help South Dakota residents age at home and stay engaged in their communities.

Dakota at Home, a resource provided by DHS, helps older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers find information about long-term services and connects them to programs that can support independent living and community engagement.

Learn more: https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/dakota-at-home

05/01/2026

May is Older Americans Month, and DHS is proud to join the Administration for Community Living (ACL) in celebrating the older adults who strengthen our communities every day.

This year’s theme, “Champion Your Health,” encourages older adults to take an active role in managing their health, advocating for themselves, and making informed decisions that support independence.

Throughout May, we’ll be sharing information, resources, and tips to help you or your loved ones stay empowered and connected.

Learn more about the services our Division of Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS) offers for older adults and their caregivers at: https://dhs.sd.gov/en/ltss

04/29/2026

We’re excited to share that Cassie Lindquist, Adult Protective Services Program Administrator with DHS, is featured in the April 2026 APS Technical Assistance Resource Center SPARC e-newsletter!

Cassie’s leadership and dedication to strengthening Adult Protective Services continue to make a meaningful impact in South Dakota. In her role, Cassie supports staff, coordinates services, and protects vulnerable adults.

Learn more about Cassie's impact in “A Day in the Life of an APS Program Administrator”:

APS Blog

04/28/2026

Congratulations to our very own Carrie Geppert!

As the Family Support Waiver Manager for our Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), she’s been a strong advocate for South Dakotans, helping families access critical supports, strengthening programs, and elevating the voices of those she serves. Her leadership and commitment to inclusion make a difference every day.

On Saturday, April 25th, the Board for DRSD presented the 2026 Robert J. Kean Advocacy Award recipient to Mrs. Carrie Geppert in recognition of her many years of advocacy, dedication, and lifting others up — from her impactful work with Disability Rights South Dakota to her leadership with the Division of Developmental Disabilities. Carrie has, and continues to be, a powerful voice for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. She continues to champion connection, inclusion, and family empowerment across our state.
Her advocacy is both professional and personal—as a mother, she brings lived experience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to everything she does.
Carrie is a trusted leader, colleague, and friend whose impact will be felt for years to come. Please join us in celebrating this exceptional advocate and champion for families!

Carrie was unable to attend the event, so accepting the award on her behalf were Brett Spencer (Director of DD) and her daughter Caj'monai. Carrie expressed, "The Robert J. Kean award really belongs to Caj’monai… as she is my “Why”."

04/27/2026

What a great evening in Spearfish!

The Division of Developmental Disabilities brought together DHS staff, self-advocates, families, and providers for a relaxed night of conversation, idea sharing, and connection.

A big thank you to everyone who attended the social, and to the Northern Hills Training Center for co-hosting and providing such a welcoming space. We’re grateful for the connections made and the relationships that continue to grow.

04/23/2026

The South Dakota Department of Human Services is proud to support Active Generations’ expansion of Adult Day Services in Sioux Falls at the newly opened Beacom Family Village. This investment strengthens care options for older adults and offers vital support for caregivers.

By helping expand access to safe, engaging, and person-centered day services, DHS continues its commitment to helping older adults live with independence and dignity while supporting the families who care for them.

Read more about the impact of this expansion at

Demand is high -- and now there's a new place to meet it. Introducing Beacom Family Village, expanding day services for older adults and the caregivers who support them.