DakotAbilities to address growing residential need with new housing

This paid piece is sponsored by DakotAbilities.

There’s no question that housing trends have changed quite a bit in the past 30 years. The same holds true when it comes to the housing needs for adults with disabilities.

This year, DakotAbilities will build two duplexes in Sioux Falls to replace two homes built in the 1990s, addressing the need for improved living and workspaces.

Privacy, dignity and personal space were priorities when drafting the plans for each new home, shifting from some instances of shared bedrooms to each person having their own room.

Heidi Loof, director of residential housing, played an integral role in the planning process and will see the project through to completion.

“My goal for each home is to walk in and feel like it’s the kind of home I would be proud to live in. People need to love where they live,” Loof said. “We all want a safe, comfortable and private haven at the end of the day.”

The homes will be constructed by Boulder Creek Custom Homes.

“Our commitment to DakotAbilities is to provide residents with the warmth and comfort of a place to call home,” owner Grant Tschetter said. “We enjoy building homes within communities where individuals feel supported and a sense of belonging.”

According to 2022 Sioux Falls census figures, 7.2 percent of the city’s population is made up of adults younger than 65 with a disability.

That percentage will grow as the city expands.

“By building two new duplexes this year to replace older homes, we are increasing the number of people supported from seven to eight per home, and both homes will be at capacity when people move in 2025,” said Nathan Stallinga, executive director at DakotAbilities.

Increasing from seven to eight people per home aligns with DakotAbilities’ strategic plan to grow by 10 percent in the next five years.

“Deliberate, strategic expansion of our services needs to be in line with the level of support we provide and hiring personnel with the right skills and expertise to make that happen,” Stallinga said.

The DakotAbilities admissions process is thorough “to ensure everyone receives the attention and support they deserve, taking into careful consideration people’s lives and creating a community where they will thrive,” director of admissions Melanie DeBates said.

In addition to residential housing, DakotAbilities provides 24/7 access to nursing care, physical habilitation services and Meaningful Day services that allow each person supported to pursue their unique interests. DakotAbilities plays a local and statewide role in advocating for the health, safety and welfare of adults with disabilities. Established in 1965, the organization is one of 20 community support providers in South Dakota.

Heather Powell has two family members supported by DakotAbilities.

“My twin siblings found a home where their unique needs are not just met but truly understood and celebrated. It’s been a joy to witness their individual growth over the years due to the passionate staff and countless opportunities provided by the organization and its donors,” she said.

“My family and I are deeply grateful for DakotAbilities’ unwavering commitment to enhancing their quality of life. As they prepare to transition into their new homes, it’s another testament to DakotAbilities’ dedication to adapting and meeting the evolving needs of those they serve.”

Through business and private donations, DakotAbilities will raise the funds to make these two new homes a reality.

“We have a generous business community, grant opportunities and a very philanthropic donor base. I’m confident we will reach our goal by year-end,” said Shelly Johnson, director of development. “We have a private donor who recently became acquainted with us by touring Longfellow Center where day services take place. Since then, they generously contributed to the housing campaign not once but twice. We are extremely grateful for the gifts and compassion of all our donors.”

To inquire about services, volunteer or donate, visit dakotabilities.org.