DakotAbilities: Meeting the evolving needs of a growing city

This paid piece is sponsored by DakotAbilities.

In 2025, DakotAbilities marks six decades of unwavering commitment to supporting adults with disabilities through accessible housing, 24/7 nursing care and Meaningful Day Services that promote independence and personal growth. Since opening its doors in 1965 as United Cerebral Palsy, the organization has evolved continuously to meet the changing needs of individuals with disabilities.

A legacy of care and innovation 

From its inception, DakotAbilities has been a leader in advocacy, education and support for individuals with disabilities. Some of its key milestones include:

• 1986 – Opened a home dedicated to individuals with the highest levels of medical needs, establishing a commitment to 24/7 nursing care. Today, this remains a distinctive differentiator when individuals and families are looking for specialized disability medical care.
• 1990 – The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into federal law, marking a historic step in disability rights. DakotAbilities has supported numerous individuals who lived in an era with minimal resources and will continue to advocate for inclusivity.

• 1996 – Renamed from Community Disabilities Services to DakotAbilities, reflecting a belief in the unique abilities of every individual.
• 2013-2015 – Purchased and renovated Longfellow Elementary to serve as the new home for Meaningful Day Services, providing enhanced opportunities for skill development and engagement.
• 2023 – Updated its mission statement to read: “Together, we create a warm and welcoming community enriching the lives of those we support.”
• 2024 – Expanded day service curriculum and learning opportunities, including sessions on online scam prevention in partnership with the Better Business Bureau.

Instant access to life-changing services 

DakotAbilities’ impact extends far beyond the individuals it serves — it plays a vital role in the broader Sioux Falls community by providing support without putting people on a waiting list.  Sioux Falls has experienced rapid growth, currently over 219,500 residents as a result of growth exceeding 2.5 percent annually over the past five years. The metro area also is growing rapidly. In fiscal year 2024, the South Dakota Department of Education projected 22,935 special education students in the state, a number exceeding the national average.

“As the population rises, so does the need for services supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are dedicated to being part of the solution by assuring individuals and their families and guardians that their housing, nursing and day services needs can be met immediately upon becoming a South Dakota resident,” said Nathan Stallinga, DakotAbilities executive director.

“Recently, one family relocated to Sioux Falls specifically for DakotAbilities’ services, benefiting from immediate support without a waiting period.”

DakotAbilities’ accessible housing footprint is expanding in Minnehaha County with the opening of two twin homes in February and March, and with new construction and home upgrades on the horizon.

Economic impact and workforce development 

DakotAbilities employs more people than most Sioux Falls residents realize, with 229 full-time and 15 part-time employees. In 2024, the organization increased the base pay for direct support professionals to $20 an hour and actively participates in the Build Dakota Scholarship program to attract and retain nursing staff.

“The cost-effectiveness of community-based support cannot be overlooked,” Stallinga said. “Individuals supported by organizations like DakotAbilities receive care at a fraction of the cost compared to state institutions, translating into significant taxpayer savings while ensuring high-quality, person-centered care.”

How you can help

“The unwavering support of this community fuels our mission, and we are deeply grateful for each contribution. Every gift makes what we do possible,” added Shelly Johnson, director of development.

 Here’s how you can make a difference:

• Follow and share – Connect with DakotAbilities on Facebook and LinkedIn to spread awareness.
• Learn and engage – Visit dakotabilities.org to explore services, ask questions or get involved.
• Volunteer – Whether individually or as a group, your time makes a meaningful impact.
• Donate – Every dollar goes directly toward services and programs, ensuring those in need receive the best support possible.