National partners help LSS support South Dakota families

Keeping families together at home

LSS is an active participant in the national Family Stabilization Initiative, a multistate effort focused on keeping children out of child welfare and juvenile justice systems by strengthening family support.

Through this collaboration, LSS Family Stabilization Services, also known as CARES Wraparound — the first program of its kind in South Dakota — was created to help families identify their strengths and create stability.

“These are families who would otherwise fall through the cracks. They are trying their best but are struggling and really need support to overcome challenges,” Witt said.

Results-based strategy

At a higher level, LSS is a leader in advocating for children and youth through the Results Network, which is part of the LSA Results Innovation Lab. The network addresses disparities in child welfare and includes 17 agencies across 12 states.

Witt’s leadership and experience in children and family services positioned her as a peer leader, guiding teams in their work.

“It’s about improving our work and making the most of the tools available — including access to national consultants — to challenge us and drive progress,” Witt said.

The engagement has fueled LSS’ programs and helped energize leadership development. “The tools and skills acquired through the cohort are utilized in leadership training, benefiting both internal teams and the families we work with,” she continued.

LSS also is active in the Rural Aging Action Network, dedicated to building a stronger continuum of care for older adults and caregivers in rural America. As a result, LSS launched the Older Adult Resource Network, a pilot program in Douglas and Charles Mix counties, which now is expanding to Bon Homme and Hutchinson counties.

Focused on supporting those 55 and older, OARN helps identify resources for individuals choosing to age in their home community and who may need assistance with transportation, food security, socialization, health care navigation and referrals, and safe housing.

Power of collaboration

“Our national partnerships allow us to bring proven solutions to South Dakota while tailoring them to meet the unique needs of our communities,” Witt explained. “By working together, we gain the knowledge, tools and support to create lasting change — helping families stay together, ensuring youth are safe at home and strengthening resources for older adults. This collaboration fuels our mission and makes a real impact in the lives of those we serve.”

To learn more about LSS services, visit LssSD.org.