For years, Paul TenHaken has stood alongside Children's Home Society of South Dakota (CHS) as an advocate for children and families who have experienced trauma. On Tuesday, August 4, CHS recognized that commitment by presenting him with the 2026 Caring Heart Award during its annual Caring For The Kids (CFTK) celebration.
The Caring Heart Award honors a longtime contributor, volunteer and supporter whose unwavering commitment has advanced CHS’s mission to prevent, treat and heal trauma. The award highlights an individual whose dedication has helped create a world where all children and families are safe, healthy and resilient.
TenHaken demonstrated those qualities through his leadership and support of CHS. During his tenure as mayor, Sioux Falls grew by a historic 23% while also reaching its lowest crime rate in a decade and earning recognition as one of the Best Run Cities in America.
Beyond his responsibilities as mayor, TenHaken became a valued supporter and friend to CHS. He advocated for survivors of domestic violence, spent time reading to children on campus and used his platform to strengthen services and raise awareness for some of the community's most vulnerable people.
"Not only would Paul stop by and read to the children—and answer their questions about being mayor—but he made it a priority to help fund our Shelter," said Chief Philanthropy Officer Jon Mammenga. " He understood there is no dedicated funding structure for domestic violence shelters and services, and he believed the City of Sioux Falls should share in that responsibility. We are forever indebted to Paul for his commitment to CHS. We are proud to honor him with this award because he truly embodies the spirit of the Caring Heart."
The former mayor joins Pam and Steve Jansa, who received the Caring Heart Award in 2025, and Linda Mickelson-Graham, the 2024 recipient.
"The children, adults and families at CHS are some of the most vulnerable people in our community," said TenHaken. "I'm honored to receive this award, but the staff providing the services and showing kindness and love are the real heroes."
This year's CFTK celebration brought the community together for a social hour, dinner, silent auction, live auction featuring a one-of-a-kind painting created by students at the CHS Loving School and the presentation of the Caring Heart Award. The evening concluded with a drawing for a brand new 2026 Crystal White Pearl Subaru Outback Limited, generously donated by Schulte Subaru. Janelle Janssen from Dunnell, MN, won the car. Learn more about Caring For The Kids here.