A new chapter of hope and healing is beginning in Rapid City. Children's Home Society of South Dakota (CHS), in partnership with Elevate Rapid City, officially opened the doors to its new Rapid City Campus on Tuesday, October 20, with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by community and state leaders, donors, partners and supporters.
The celebration marked the transformation of the former National American University building into a 110,000-square-foot campus dedicated to preventing, treating and healing trauma. The new facility brings CHS's Rapid City programs together under one roof, creating a more connected approach to serving children, adults and families throughout the Black Hills.
“A promise made. A promise kept. That's what this new campus represents,” said CHS President and CEO Michelle Lavallee. “To finally be moving into our new home and see what we've accomplished together is truly special. I want to thank our donors, community partners, staff and the entire Rapid City community for believing in our mission and helping make this possible. Together, we've created a place where children, adults and families can find hope, experience healing and build brighter futures.”
The campus houses six CHS programs, including Residential Treatment, School Programs, Adoption Services through Wendy's Wonderful Kids, Outpatient Mental Health Services, the Child Advocacy Center and Child Abuse Prevention, Training and Education.
"When we invest in the well-being of children and families, we invest in the future of our entire community," said Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun. "Children's Home Society's new campus will play an important role in that future by providing a place where those who have experienced trauma can receive the care and support they need. We're proud to have this resource here in Rapid City."
An extensive renovation transformed the former university building into a welcoming, trauma-informed environment designed to support healing, safety and connection. JLG Architects designed the renovation, Gustafson Builders of Rapid City served as construction manager and Tegra served as owner's representative.
With several services already underway at the new campus, CHS is preparing for the next phase of its transition. Children receiving residential treatment are expected to move into their new home in early November.
Click the video below to watch the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Final Opportunity to Tour the New Campus
Before residential treatment clients move in, CHS invites community members and members of the media to explore the new campus during its final community open house Saturday, Oct. 24, from 9-11 a.m. MT.
This will be the last opportunity for media to tour the facility before children begin living on campus. Attendees can see firsthand how CHS has transformed the building into a space designed to help children, adults and families find hope, experience healing and build brighter futures.
Event Details
What: CHS Rapid City Campus Final Community Open House
When: Saturday, October 24, 9-11 a.m. MT
Where: CHS Rapid City Campus, Rapid City, South Dakota
