LifeScape opens fifth adult residential home in five years

A new duplex on the east side of Sioux Falls will support adults served by LifeScape.

It’s the fifth such home in five years and a $1.4 million investment thanks to funds raised by the LifeScape Foundation and community partners.

“We started this plan in 2020 with the groundbreaking of our first duplex, and now five years later, it’s incredibly rewarding to see how our goal has been reached, empowering adults supported in our residential program to live their best life,” CEO Steve Watkins said.

All of the homes are in Sioux Falls except for one that opened in 2024 in Harrisburg.

The newest is called Washington Home in east Sioux Falls.

Each home has a single-floor layout, eliminating mobility and safety challenges. The 5,500-square-foot design provides privacy and the sense of community for the eight residents, four on each side of the duplex.

“We have made our vision of creating true homes for our residents by ensuring each has their own bedroom and bathroom, including one that is accessible on each side, along with an accessible kitchen, shared living and dining areas, living room, TV room, laundry area and a beautiful front porch and back patio,” Watkins said.

The homes are built in partnership with the South Dakota Department of Human Services and the South Dakota Housing Development Authority and have served 40 people with disabilities in the past five years with a safe environment that allows for fostering independence.

“We are beyond grateful to not only the South Dakota Housing Development Authority but to Lloyd Cos. and Furniture Mart, who have all tirelessly worked behind the scenes to support our mission,” LifeScape Foundation president Jessica Wells said.

“Thanks to our donors and partnerships, not only have we been afforded the opportunity to build these new duplexes, we’ve also been able to purchase an existing home in western Sioux Falls.”

The latest home includes enhanced technology features, which are part of the organization’s virtual support services.

“LifeScape is excited to roll out this new service in our adult residential homes. Virtual support services represent the integration of advanced technology and compassionate care,” chief operating officer Kimberly Marso said.

“Our services ensure that individuals live fulfilling lives with dignity, while also offering essential resources and guidance to staff and caregivers in various settings.”

Virtual support specialists are available 24 hours a day.

Future strategic initiatives continue to focus on technological advances, as well as plans to build sixth and seventh residential homes in Sioux Falls, including one that will focus on memory care for residents.