At Sioux Empire United Way, the strength of our community has always been rooted in partnership—and in 2026, that strength is on full display.
Thanks to incredible support from donors, volunteers, and advocates across the region, this year’s campaign not only met its goal—it exceeded it. That generosity is already creating meaningful change, allowing us to expand our impact and invest in new, innovative programs that address some of our community’s most pressing needs.
Welcoming New Programs—and New Possibilities
For 2026, five new programs have been added to our network, bringing the total number of funded programs to 73. These programs represent fresh ideas, collaborative solutions, and a shared commitment to walking alongside our neighbors in meaningful ways.
From supporting youth and families to helping individuals overcome crisis and build stability, each new partner expands what’s possible when we work together. Programs like The Foster Network, Call to Freedom, Owen’s Outfitters, and the Sioux Falls School District’s Middle School Community Learning Center reflect the diversity of needs—and solutions—within our community.
We’re also excited to see continued growth in initiatives like Southeast Technical College’s Access and Workforce Opportunity program, which is now fully funded through our community impact process after demonstrating measurable success.
Call to Freedom
Call to Freedom supports survivors of human trafficking and exploitation by providing the comprehensive care and resources needed to heal and rebuild. Through individualized case management, safe housing, trauma-informed therapy, and community outreach, the program meets survivors where they are and walks alongside them on their journey toward stability. Call to Freedom's approach centers on empowerment, safety, and long-term well-being — helping individuals reclaim their lives, find their footing, and move forward with hope and dignity.
Sioux Falls School District - Community Learning Center
The Community Learning Center's after-school program gives middle school students the support they need to succeed — academically, socially, and emotionally. Through one-on-one tutoring, mentoring relationships, enrichment activities, and structured programming, students build confidence, develop new skills, and discover opportunities they might not otherwise have access to. For many students, this program is a safe and welcoming space where they feel seen, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential both inside and outside the classroom.
Southeast Technical College Foundation - Access and Workforce Opportunity
This program is designed to help students — especially first-generation college-goers — bridge the gap between high school and a meaningful career. Through personalized coaching, hands-on workshops, real-world experiences, and guidance on education and career planning, students gain the tools and confidence they need to complete their education and enter the workforce ready to succeed. For students who may not have had a clear roadmap to higher education, this program makes the path forward feel possible.
The Legacy Foundation: Owen's Outfitters
Owen's Outfitters ensures that individuals and families in need have access to the clothing, gear, and essential items that make everyday life a little more manageable. But the program goes beyond just meeting basic needs — it operates with a deep commitment to dignity and self-sufficiency, giving community members access to quality items in a welcoming, respectful environment. Owen's Outfitters recognizes that when people feel equipped and cared for, they are better positioned to focus on personal growth and move toward greater independence.
The Foster Network
The Foster Network is committed to ensuring that foster youth and families don't navigate the system alone. Through mentorship, educational resources, and meaningful community connections, the program helps young people build the resilience and confidence they need to thrive. Whether supporting a youth through a difficult transition or helping a family find their footing, The Foster Network provides steady guidance and a reliable community at every step — so that when the time comes to transition into adulthood, young people do so with stability, skills, and a strong foundation beneath them.
A Process Built on Trust and Impact
Becoming a funded partner is no small feat—and that’s by design.
Each program undergoes a thoughtful, data-driven review led by teams of dedicated community volunteers. These individuals invest meaningful time getting to know each organization—its mission, financial health, and measurable outcomes—to ensure every dollar entrusted to United Way is making the greatest possible impact.
As one volunteer shared, this process serves as a kind of “seal of approval,” giving donors confidence that funded programs are not only effective, but deeply aligned with community needs.
For nonprofit partners, the process also offers something just as valuable: an opportunity to reflect, refine, and strengthen their work.
It’s a collaborative experience that celebrates what’s working and uncovers new opportunities to grow. Organizations gain valuable insights, strengthen their impact, and connect more deeply with the community they serve.
In the end, it’s about more than funding—it’s about building strong, trusted partnerships that move the entire community forward together.
Powered by Community
None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of this community. From corporate partners and individual donors to volunteers who dedicate hundreds of hours to reviewing applications, the Sioux Empire continues to show what it means to care deeply and act boldly. That collective effort fuels programs that provide educational opportunities, mental health support, workforce pathways, and critical services for those who need them most. Because when we unite, we don’t just meet needs—we transform lives.
And it doesn’t stop there. Each act of generosity creates a ripple effect—strengthening families, empowering individuals, and building a more resilient and connected region for generations to come. The impact reaches far beyond a single moment or program; it becomes part of a larger story of hope, opportunity, and shared purpose.
Together, we are shaping a future where everyone has the chance to thrive—and where compassion continues to lead the way forward.