Annual Meeting Review

Earlier this month, Children’s Home Society and Foundation Board Members from across the state gathered in Sioux Falls for the annual meeting.

It was a busy day for our Board Members as they learned about the Science of Hope, made decisions regarding our strategic plan, welcomed new Board Members and bid a few Members farewell. The day was full of big decisions and possibilities for the future of CHS.

Many amazing things happen at CHS throughout the year, so a “Year in Review” video was created to show the Board highlights from the past year. Click here to watch the video.

Ribbon Cutting

On the second day of the annual meeting, CHS celebrated the opening of the new Daugaard Dining Hall with a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony.

The newly constructed facility was named to honor the legacy of former S.D. Governor Dennis Daugaard and his wife, Linda Daugaard. Dennis served as Executive Director for seven years, Development Director for 12 years and a Board Member for five years. Linda was also a Board Member for six years.

“Dennis has played a profound role in shaping Children’s Home Society into the wonderful organization that it is today,” says President and CEO Michelle Lavallee. “This beautiful hall will be the place where meals and unforgettable memories will serve as the recipe for success as we work with children and families in a trauma-informed setting.”

Michelle thanked Dennis for his dedication and years of service to CHS and how kiddos are "...going to love to gather at Doogie's Dining Hall." She then invited him up to the podium to speak.

CHS has had a powerful impact on Dennis’s life. He reflected on a moment when he had one of the kiddos, a little boy named Jack, help him record a “thank you” tape to send to a donor. He asked Jack a few questions like, “What are you learning in school? Who's your teacher? What's your favorite part of CHS?” At the end of the interview, Dennis asked Jack what he wanted to be when he grew up, and Jack responded that he “just wanted to be happy.”

For Dennis, that was a powerful moment to experience the importance of our mission–to prevent, treat and heal trauma. Dennis and his family support CHS however they can, including volunteering as a group every year at the annual Gift Wrap Booth benefitting Shelter.

After Dennis's speech, members of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce presented Michelle and Dennis with a commemorative plaque for this special occasion. Everyone then lined up in front of the new Daugaard Dining Hall sign and the ribbon was cut, marking this new chapter in CHS history.

Both Dakota News Now and KELO covered the ribbon cutting. Click their names to watch their coverage.

Todd Miller Memorial Bench

“Fishing isn’t about the fish. It’s about the time spent together catching them.”

It was a beautiful day remembering our dear colleague and friend, Todd Miller. The warm glow of the fall colors reflecting on the pond made for a serene spot to pause and think about the legacy Todd left behind.

On July 24, 2022, Todd Miller, a Team Coordinator at SFCH, collapsed while working his shift at the Madsen down unit. Colleagues provided treatment until paramedics arrived. He was taken to Sanford, where ER doctors did everything they could, but ultimately Todd passed away.

Throughout his 36 years with the organization, he impacted countless lives and was greatly loved by children and co-workers. Before the ribbon cutting ceremony took place, Todd Miller’s family, CHS staff and Board Members gathered for the unveiling of the Todd Miller Memorial bench.

Both Michelle Lavallee and former CHS employee Cole PleggenKuhle reminisced about Todd and spoke about his impact on CHS. Both shared that Todd loved the Green Bay Packers and he was an avid outdoorsman, especially when it came to fishing. Hopefully, staff and our kiddos can take in the beautiful scenery, maybe catch a fish or two, and remember our dear friend Todd.

If you haven’t seen the bench yet, stop by the pond and take a look. It’s a beautiful place to pause, reflect and remember to enjoy the little things.

Board Members broke off into small groups to discuss our strategic plans.