Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Community members gathered on October 23 for the annual Take Back the Night event in Sioux Falls to raise awareness about domestic violence, stand with survivors and honor those helping individuals rebuild their lives.
During the program that followed the candlelight vigil walk, the Minnehaha County Family Violence Council (MCFVC) presented its annual Advocate in Action Award. This year’s recipient is JaeLynn Garry, Outreach Advocate at Children’s Home Shelter for Family Safety (CHSFS).
Kate Feilmeier, CHSFS and Bright Start Program Director and the MCFVC Board Chair, nominated Garry for her unwavering dedication to her clients, even in the most challenging situations.
“JaeLynn exemplifies what it means to be a tireless advocate, a compassionate listener, and a powerful force for change in the lives of victims, survivors, fellow advocates, and community partners alike,” said Feilmeier. “Her genuine warmth and eagerness to support others have made her an invaluable resource to those she serves and works alongside.”
Feilmeier added, “Whether a client is in crisis or simply needs someone to listen, JaeLynn meets them exactly where they are—without judgment and with an open heart. She brings light and calm to even the most difficult situations and consistently goes above and beyond to ensure each client feels seen, heard, and supported.”
Created in 2014, the Advocate in Action Award honors an outstanding individual from Minnehaha or Lincoln County whose work has had a profound impact on the lives of victims of domestic violence. Recipients may include law enforcement officers, victim advocates, elected officials, prosecutors, judges, therapists, or community volunteers whose efforts have made a meaningful difference in the lives of survivors.
“I feel incredibly honored,” said Garry. “I have the privilege of working with and alongside some truly extraordinary human beings. We all do the hard work, and I honestly could not do what I do each day without the unconditional and unwavering support of those around me.”
“I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me,” she continued. “I promise to keep working hard and to go above and beyond, not only for my colleagues and peers but also for the courageous and brave victims and survivors I am honored to stand beside.”
Read Feilmeier’s full nomination of Garry below.
It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate JaeLynn for the Advocate in Action Award. JaeLynn exemplifies what it means to be a tireless advocate, a compassionate listener, and a powerful force for change in the lives of victims, survivors, fellow advocates, and community partners alike.
JaeLynn is a true bright spot in every space she enters. Her genuine warmth and eagerness to support others have made her an invaluable resource to those she serves and works alongside. Whether a client is in crisis or simply needs someone to listen, JaeLynn meets them exactly where they are without judgment and with an open heart. She brings light and calm to even the most difficult situations and is known for going above and beyond to ensure each client feels seen, heard, and supported.
Her commitment to learning and growth is evident in the way she actively seeks out new information and training to better serve victims and survivors. JaeLynn understands that knowledge is key to providing effective, trauma-informed care, and she is constantly evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of those she advocates for.
Recently featured in a local article for her work on teen dating violence, JaeLynn is a passionate and fearless voice in conversations about domestic violence and sexual assault. She doesn’t shy away from the hard topics; she engages in them thoughtfully and intentionally, ensuring that survivors are informed about risks and safety planning. Her ability to think outside the box has helped countless individuals find paths to safety and healing that are tailored to their unique circumstances.
JaeLynn’s empathy and dedication leave a lasting impact. Clients often share overwhelmingly positive feedback about the ways she has helped them navigate their journeys. Community partners and colleagues describe her as someone who consistently shows up with solutions, encouragement, and a deep sense of care.
In every way, JaeLynn is top-notch. She brings her whole self to this work every day and does so with unmatched integrity and heart. Her presence is not only valued, it’s deeply appreciated and admired by all who have the privilege to work with her.
JaeLynn is truly an Advocate in Action, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
-Kate Feilmeier, CHSFS and Bright Start Program Director and the MCFVC Board Chair
