Hope took a major step forward for South Dakota families on April 12, 2024, with the groundbreaking for a new Children’s Services Campus in Sioux Falls. It was a joyful day, as several hundred people, including donors, families, business leaders, and dignitaries—turned out to celebrate. Front and center with shovels in hand were several children supported by LifeScape. Special guests were U.S. Senator John Thune, South Dakota Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden, Sioux Falls Mayor Paul Ten Haken, and donors Dave and Christine Billion.
The 200,000 square foot building is being built on ten acres of land on North Career Avenue and West 34th Street North. The larger capacity facility will include a 69-bed children’s residential area, a 25% larger specialty school, an 18-bed pediatric rehabilitation hospital, expanded inpatient and intensive outpatient therapy space, gymnasium, pool, therapy pool, and some administrative offices. The general contractor is Henry Carlson Construction, with design by Koch Hazard Architects and HDR Engineering. It will be finished in late 2026 and will help relieve wait lists of children needing services.
Our fundraising campaign for this new campus is called the “Journey of Hope,” because so many families have told us over the years that LifeScape offers them hope for their child. The total cost will be $98.5 million, with $86 million already raised. LifeScape was approved by the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce for a $1.8 million Community Appeals Fund Drive for the project, from April 1 to July 31, 2024. Funds raised through the appeal will be used for the playground at the new campus.
A buyer is being sought for the current 26th Street Hospital & School property, with proceeds applied to the fundraising total. It opened in March 1952 to serve children recovering from polio. It has been added onto three times over the years and is landlocked and out of space.
LifeScape’s two outpatient centers will remain at their current locations, as will Adult Day Services. We are continuing our commitment to improve and replace homes for the adults we support.
The progress of the project can be followed on the campaign website. Gifts to the project can be made through the website, or by contacting the Foundation office at (605) 444-9800 or giving@lifescapesd.org.
Tech visionary Steve Jobs believed that we’re all here “to put a ding in the universe.” He understood the power of the individual to change the world for good, in large and small ways. The Journey of Hope will make that impact—providing hope for children and families for generations to come. We hope you’ll join us.
