Message from the Board Chair - January 2025

Dear Fellow Board Members of CHS and CHF:

Development of the Rapid City campus and the related expansion of services to vulnerable children and families in the western half of South Dakota rank among the boldest, most impactful undertakings in the 132-year history of Children’s Home Society.

As members of the Society and Foundation boards, we have a collective responsibility to guide the success of this West River initiative and fulfill our mission: to prevent, treat and heal trauma throughout South Dakota.

Your attendance and participation at our joint board meeting and related events in Pierre on Wednesday, Jan. 29, and Thursday, Jan. 30, is vitally important and would be greatly appreciated.

If you’re able, journey to Pierre on Wednesday, Jan. 29, and arrive by mid-afternoon, in time for our annual reception with members of the state Legislature and other state government officials at 4:30 p.m. Your presence and interaction with state leaders builds their confidence, understanding and support of the great work we do. Following the reception, all board members and staff are encouraged to stay for dinner and socialize. We all can benefit from getting to know one another better.

The joint meeting of both boards begins Thursday, Jan. 30, at 9 a.m. Sorry, there is NO Teams option. This is an opportunity to focus in-depth on the status, challenges and full potential of the Rapid City campus. Our partners from JLG Architects, Gustafson Builders and the Tegra Group will join us to discuss building design, timelines and answer questions. Additional topics for board review and action include financials, various CHS programs and the clients we serve.

Thank you for your continued dedication and board engagement. We look forward to being together in Pierre.

Safe travels and best wishes,

Jack Marsh
Children’s Home Society Board Chair