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2023 Annual Report

MISSION

EmBe uplifts the potential in children, women, and families through opportunities that empower all.

VISION

We envision and support a community where children thrive, women excel, and families succeed.

VALUES

Curiosity, Authenticity, Leadership & Connection

From the CEO

As we reflect on the past year, I am overwhelmed with pride and gratitude for the outstanding progress and successes EmBe has accomplished. Our mission to uplift the potential in children, women, and families through opportunities that empower all, has been steadfast. EmBe’s support of workforce development has been advanced through the collective efforts of our dedicated team, generous donors, tireless volunteers, and supportive business partners. Together, this is how we continue to make a meaningful impact in our community.

In 2023, EmBe made significant strides in child education. We further invested in education by expanding our curriculum team and enhancing our education programs and training for teachers and staff. Our collaboration with the Sioux Falls Public Schools Community Learning Centers (CLC) was a monumental milestone, partnering with the school and other agencies to meet the community’s needs. This expansion is a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality child education, supporting workforce development, and enabling parents to pursue their professional aspirations with peace of mind.

Our work in 2023, and continuing today, has positioned EmBe as a leader in addressing the childcare crisis. By making tough yet necessary decisions and collaborating with committees across the state, we are working tirelessly to find sustainable solutions that ensure access to affordable, quality childcare for all. These collaborations between EmBe, the business community, government officials, and groups across the state exemplify the power of community in driving change and innovation.

EmBe’s youth programs engaged over 2,300 youth across South Dakota this past year. FIRST® LEGO® League fostered innovation and teamwork, Girls on the Run® built confidence and healthy habits, our volleyball program developed athletic and cooperative skills, and babysitting classes provided essential childcare training.

Our aquatics programs continue to thrive, providing swimming lessons and training for over 525 lifeguards to ensure water safety in our communities.

EmBe’s commitment to women and developing the workforce led to two additional Women’s Leadership Program Tiers, enhancing our ability to support women at various stages of their professional journeys. These programs are designed to empower women with the skills, confidence, and networks needed to excel in their careers. Additionally, our Dress for Success initiative was significantly impacted by providing professional attire to over a hundred more women than the previous year, ensuring they can confidently present themselves in the workforce.

Our organizational growth has made significant milestones. In 2023, we ended the year with almost 90 additional team members over 2022 ending the year with 270 team members, significantly reduced turnover, achieving single-digit openings as we moved into 2024. This stability within our team enhances our capacity to deliver exceptional services and support to the families and women we serve. Financially, EmBe has experienced remarkable growth, with revenue growth from $6.8 million three years ago to $9.7 million in 2023. This financial strength enables us to broaden our impact and invest in the future of our community.

Our achievements are a direct result of your unwavering support. To our donors, supporters, volunteers, and business partners, thank you for believing in our mission and your contributions that have uplifted EmBe and our community. Together, we support workforce development and shape a brighter future for women, children, and families.

With gratitude,

Kerri Tietgen Chief Executive Officer

From the Board Chair

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am honored to share our organization’s accomplishments over the past year. EmBe’s foresight in recognizing the needs within our community has remained as our guiding principle. While the specific challenges have evolved over the decades, the core mission of uplifting children, women, and families has endured. Moving forward from celebrating EmBe’s centennial calls us to honor our history while continuing to build on the shoulders of giants, ensuring that EmBe remains a pillar of support and innovation for the next century.

One of the most significant achievements of this past year has been the tremendous progress in cultivating a robust and passionate organizational culture. Under the leadership of Kerri and her team, we have seen EmBe evolve, placing the right people in the right roles, and fostering a sense of urgency, alignment, and shared purpose. Change is never easy, but the dedication and passion within our team have positioned us well for the future.

Navigating the myriad challenges of the past year has required resilience and strategic foresight. As a board, we have focused on optimizing our operations and aligning our efforts with EmBe’s mission. One of our critical initiatives has been addressing the childcare crisis—a complex issue that affects our community deeply. By naming this crisis and raising awareness, we have highlighted the urgent need for solutions to support working families. Despite the economic hurdles of operating at a loss, EmBe remains unwavering in its commitment to providing essential care and support.

I joined the EmBe board in March 2020, motivated to contribute to an organization with a significant footprint and a critical mission. As a father of two daughters and an employer of many young professional women, I recognized the importance of EmBe’s work. The journey has been incredibly rewarding, witnessing our successes, including the doubling of our revenue to serve more women, children, and families.

As we look ahead, we are on the cusp of exciting developments. The completion of our current strategic plan presents an opportunity to chart a new course, looking forward to 2030. We will focus on expanding childcare opportunities, forging partnerships, and ensuring that EmBe continues to serve a growing and dynamic community. With a full and aligned board, we are prepared to seize these opportunities and move swiftly toward our goals.

The future of EmBe holds immense promise. We continually strive to enhance the clarity and effectiveness of our programs, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our community. As Winston Churchill wisely stated, “Never let a good crisis go to waste.” The community, businesses, and government must unite to solve the childcare crisis and support workforce development. EmBe is poised to play a pivotal role in these efforts, driving solutions and leaving a legacy of impact.

I encourage everyone touched by EmBe—whether through swimming lessons, career coaching, Dress for Success, child education, or any of our programs—to consider giving back. Whether through time, talent, or treasure, your support is vital to EmBe’s continued success. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference.

Together, we will continue to honor our past, embrace our present, and envision a future where EmBe’s impact is felt by generations to come.

John T. Meyer Board Chair

2023 Board of Directors

John

A Year of Gratitude

This year has been one of remarkable growth and generosity. Your contributions have been the cornerstone of our success, enabling us to continue our mission of empowering women, children, and families. To the many businesses and individuals who have generously donated, thank you. Your unwavering support has enabled us to expand our reach and deepen our impact.

For over 100 years, EmBe has been at the heart of our community, responding to its evolving needs with compassion and dedication. This legacy of service is a testament to our community’s shared values and the enduring impact of our programs. However, we rely on your continued financial support to sustain and enhance our efforts. Your donations are vital for us to continue offering programs that support workforce development, change lives, and strengthen our community.

One of the most fascinating aspects of working at EmBe is hearing the countless stories of those whose lives have been touched by our programs. Whether it’s a neighbor who participated in Girls on the Run® or a coworker who benefited from our Women’s Leadership initiatives, the impact of EmBe is both profound and widespread. These stories of positive change are a testament to the power of our programs and the generosity of our donors.

In my time at EmBe, I’ve had the privilege of meeting women who were involved with our organization decades ago, some of whom served on our board 40-50 years ago. Their passion for EmBe remains as strong as ever, a clear indication that the impact of our work never fades. These lasting connections are a powerful reminder of the importance of our mission and the need to continue our efforts.

We need your help to continue making such a significant impact. Every donation, big or small, contributes to the continuation and expansion of our programs. Your support enables us to empower the next generation of leaders, support families, and build a stronger, more resilient community.

Thank you for your generosity and belief in EmBe and helping us continue to create positive change for the next 100 years and beyond.

To make an impact on our programs, donate today at embe.org/giving.

With gratitude and appreciation,

Susanne Gale Chief Development Officer

1,864 Children in childcare

350 Women in Dress for Success

Compensation & Benefits Occupancy

Fundraising & Development Professional Services Program Expenses Advertising & Printing Expenses

EmBe Served...

1,126 GOTR participants

525 Lifeguards trained

21,848 Volunteer hours

Pillars of Empowerment

EDUCATION

EmBe Education honors children, families, and their teachers by fostering wholistic development focused on character, inherent intelligence, and physical well-being.

9 Schools in School Age Care

YOUTH

EmBe Youth nurtures curiosity, cultivates critical thinking, and builds confidence through diverse programs.

WOMEN

EmBe Women recognizes women’s strengths and equips them to thrive personally and professionally.

AQUATICS

EmBe Aquatics develops life-long safety skills, encourages family fun, and builds wellness in the community.

Education

Child Education

EmBe Education is dedicated to honoring children, families, and their teachers by fostering wholistic development focused on character, inherent intelligence, and physical well-being. We enhanced our child education programs in 2023 and created a Curriculum & Licensing Team to ensure robust and effective curriculum creation, while meeting and exceeding current licensing standards. We also instituted thorough and focused training programs to improve teaching quality and effectiveness. In 2023, we launched a comprehensive orientation process, hired two instructional coaches, and supported six team members in pursuing their Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials. EmBe continues to be a leader in the child education space and plans to expand the 30-60-90 onboarding process in 2024.

EmBe’s commitment to excellence is further demonstrated through our stringent training standards. New lead team members undergo 56 hours of training; 16 hours of orientation and at least 40 hours in annual coaching & support. Lead teachers receive personalized coaching, with direct classroom observation and one-on-one meetings alternating every week. Additionally, EmBe provides an annual all staff in-service training day, and partners with other organizations to provide external resources. All teachers meet a minimum requirement of 20 hours of training each year, and EmBe ensures all training requirements are met before teachers are working in ratio. Notably, in 2023, Department of Social Services (DSS) lowered training requirements for teachers to 10 hours per year. However, EmBe has increased training for teachers, which has had a positive impact. In a parent survey conducted in 2023, when asked what they like most about EmBe, parents highlighted the top three aspects: a safe and secure environment, their child’s teacher, and qualified staff.

Our training and development programs ensure that all educators within EmBe are well-equipped to deliver high-quality education and care, upholding our commitment to excellence and empowering women, children, and families.

A Foundation for the Future

written by Jodi Schwan

Over the span of the years, EmBe has prepared thousands of kids for kindergarten through its preschool programs.

For the Sexe family, EmBe’s Downtown location became the best fit several years ago for balancing work – both parents had offices downtown – and home, as they lived in McKennan Park.

“It was a great location, and we felt like EmBe had a lot more offerings than other centers we checked out. Especially with the Spanish Immersion program, on-site swim lessons and engaging field trips offered. We love that EmBe is a nonprofit and all they do for the community, so it was an easy choice for us,” mom Jessica Sexe said.

They enrolled three-month-old Natalie, now a graduate from the Spanish Immersion preschool program and is a future kindergartner headed to the fully immersive Spanish program at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary School.

“We had read some studies about how Spanish is good for childhood development. We thought it would give our children a good head start if they started with Spanish immersion in preschool, and we have definitely seen benefits from it,” Sexe said.

Rewind about 18 years and mom Jill Wurth also made the choice to enroll her daughter, Lindsay, at EmBe. She and her husband, Jacob, chose EmBe South because it was close to their home.

“We toured EmBe and I really liked it. Lindsay moved through three rooms there and our experience was consistently strong, and then in her five-year-old room she really connected with her teacher, Andy. He and Lindsay were super tight and it was just really good for my mom heart to know she was really being taken care of and being ‘seen’ by someone and I know that started at EmBe.”

Now, Lindsay is a new grad again—this time, from Harrisburg High School. In the fall, she’ll be a freshman at the University of Notre Dame. Looking back, she, too, remembers first learning Spanish at EmBe – even though it would be years before the immersive preschool program started. “I had every subject in my skill set, and I was able to hit the ground running,” Lindsay said.

Dad, Jacob Wurth has stayed connected to EmBe, serving on the finance committee. “EmBe is setting themselves apart because it’s not just daycare. It’s truly early childhood education, and there’s a curriculum that goes with it. You’re not dropping kids off and picking them up. It’s a different level of training and education and child development. The better your program, the better reputation you have and the better retention you have,” he said.

While striking a balance between accessibility and highest-quality care isn’t easy, Wurth points to team members like Andy, the teacher his daughter originally bonded with years ago – who is still working at EmBe. Despite the nearly two decades between their experience, both families point to a culture at EmBe that has endured.

“We just always felt our daughter was very safe and that she had her own identity,” Jill Wurth said. Now, as the Sexe family prepares to begin elementary school with Natalie, they have the same confidence.

Sexe concluded, “I think it’s worth it for parent to try any EmBe program out. It feels like a mini-community, and I think that’s what we’ve enjoyed the most.”

Youth

FIRST® LEGO® League

In 2023, the FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL) robotics program continued its robust recovery following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The year saw a significant resurgence in participation, with 28 FLL Challenge Teams (grades 4-8) and 9 FLL Explore Teams (grades 1-3) competing—a notable 20% increase from the previous season. These programs collectively engaged over 300 youth across the state, highlighting a growing interest and involvement in STEM activities.

Our robotics camps also saw impressive participation, reaching over 600 elementary and middle school students since 2022, and impacting more than 150 families in 2023 alone. With 2023 camp enrollment surpassing 180 participants, the program’s influence and reach continue to expand, fostering a strong foundation for future innovators.

Following their 2023 FLL season, FLL Challenge Teams from South Dakota represented the state at three International Invitational Tournaments. These included the FIRST® World Championship in Houston, Texas, the Worcester Polytechnic Institute Invitational in Worcester, Massachusetts, and the Western Edge Open Invitational in Long Beach, California. Participation in these prestigious events allowed teams to showcase their skills on an international platform, gain invaluable experience, and share their newfound knowledge and insights with peers statewide through workshops and presentations.

Overall, 2023 was a year of growth, achievement, and expanded horizons for the FIRST® LEGO® League under EmBe’s guidance, reaffirming its vital role in nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders.

Girls on the Run® (GOTR)

The Spring 2023 season of Girls on the Run® (GOTR) marked a significant milestone. With 699 girls participating, representing 43 school teams throughout the state, it became our largest season since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This remarkable turnout showcases the program’s growing impact, which continues to inspire and empower young girls through physical activity and the crucial development of life skills.

Volleyball

In the Winter 2023 season, we forged an exciting partnership with the University of Sioux Falls (USF) for the first time. Through this collaboration, we were able to offer four weeks of volleyball clinics led by the esteemed experts at USF. These clinics provided our participants with top-notch training and an enriching experience, furthering our commitment to wholistic youth development.

Our success in 2023 would not have been possible without the dedication of our 772 volunteers, who tirelessly supported our programs and events, ensuring their success and impact on our community.

Women

Women’s Leadership Program

EmBe Women’s Leadership programs made significant strides in 2023. Our mission to empower women in the workforce has always been at the heart of EmBe, and this past year, we expanded our impact by introducing a three-tier structure designed to support women at every stage of their careers and lives.

In early 2023, we launched the first tier of our expanded Women’s Leadership programming, “Leading Me: Owning My Leadership Story.” This six-month program invites participants to delve into their leadership narratives, fostering self-awareness and confidencebuilding. The response was overwhelming, with a marked increase in applications as women shared their transformative experiences with peers.

To complement our new structure, we introduced “Leading With: Understanding My Impact on Others,” targeting seasoned leaders ready to explore patterns and behaviors that affect their leadership practices. We were thrilled to celebrate the graduation of our inaugural cohort of six women and are excited to welcome 14 participants in the upcoming group, doubling our reach.

We further strengthened our commitment to fostering community connections by introducing our “Level Up Lunches.” These monthly gatherings provide a platform for learning from a variety of leaders who act as mentors in our Women’s Leadership Program.

Our participants have demonstrated that women who feel seen, heard, and valued bring unparalleled energy and contribution to their workplaces. Our achievements are deeply rooted in the support from our community and partners. We are grateful to the numerous companies that have trusted us with their talent. Your belief in our mission allows us to continue empowering women to become resilient, confident leaders.

We are excited for the continued growth and impact of our Women’s Leadership programs. Together, we are creating a future where every woman knows her worth and power.

Women’s Workforce Development

EmBe Women’s workforce development programs continued to expand in 2023. We reached a broader demographic of women, including college students, women re-entering the workforce, and others, equipping them with essential skills for employment readiness. These programs are offered free of charge to participants, exemplifying EmBe’s mission to uplift the potential in children, women, and families through opportunities that empower all.

Key initiatives such as Dress for Success, Making Cents Financial Literacy, and Career Network are central to EmBe Women’s programs. These initiatives provide practical guidance on interview preparedness, professional attire, financial education, and a safe network of support, empowering women in every aspect of their lives and careers.

No one’s taken me as I am, and no one’s really accepted me. I came to Dress for Success and asked for help, and you guys welcomed me with open arms.

- DRESS FOR SUCCESS CLIENT

EmBe Women’s Workforce Development helps women already in the workforce or finding work in the community. We discuss goals and walk alongside women through that process. Our staff and volunteers are dedicated to providing the tools necessary to thrive and a feeling of safety and community. We create an unparalleled experience for any woman who walks through our doors, and we repeatedly exceed expectations.

For example, Honor, a client in 2022, now volunteers with Dress for Success. She told us, “Dress for Success saved my life in a career sense! Thank you for all you have done for me. I will be volunteering and paying it forward!” EmBe’s commitment to advancing women’s workforce development and leadership addresses the evolving needs of women entering the workforce, ensuring they have the resources necessary for success.

Additionally, our collaborative efforts, like Walk-In Wednesday, with local colleges and universities and other community partners, underscore our dedication to working with others to offer comprehensive services in the community. We’ve hosted multiple career workshops for female college students to learn about interviewing, resume tips, and styling in an interview-ready outfit. Walk-in Wednesdays break down an accessibility barrier that allows us to assist more individuals. Our collaboration with Think 3D facilitated the provision of jackets for professional headshots, further enhancing the support we offer women. We’ve helped many women post-incarceration with our diligent work with transitional housing. Through these relationships, EmBe continues to reinforce its commitment to empowering women and fostering community support, ensuring that all women have the opportunity to succeed.

“I’m taking back my life.”

-EMBE WOMEN’S PROGRAM CLIENT

Aquatics

EmBe’s Aquatics Programs continue to grow significantly in our swim lessons and Lifeguard/WSI classes. In 2023, we proudly served 1,346 participants, resulting in an impressive total of nearly 11,000 half-hour swim lessons.

Our Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor (WSI) classes also experienced robust participation, with 525 individuals trained in 2023. The EmBe pool remains an essential resource for our community and surrounding areas, ensuring local pools are staffed with certified and competent lifeguards and instructors.

The impact of EmBe Aquatics is best illustrated by a message received from a mother whose daughter participated in our lifeguard training class. She shared how her daughter, Madison, utilized the skills she learned during her Red Cross review training at EmBe to perform a successful spinal injury rescue at Lake Michigan. Madison credited the comprehensive training and confidence instilled by our instructor for her ability to manage the situation effectively. This story exemplifies the real-world importance and life-saving potential of our programs.

Madison’s experience highlights the dedication and high standards of our instructors, ensuring that our participants are always well-prepared for emergencies. Her story is a powerful reminder of the vital role EmBe plays in promoting safety and preparedness in aquatic environments.

The success of our Aquatics Programming in 2023 exemplifies our unwavering commitment to excellence in water safety education and community service. We look forward to continuing to serve and protect our community with the same dedication and passion in the years to come.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

In 2023, EmBe partnered with the Community Learning Centers (CLC), a collaboration between the Sioux Falls School District and community providers like EmBe. This partnership has allowed us to continue to support children and families, and workforce development efforts across the state.

CLC programs, within elementary schools, offer a safe, licensed environment for out-of-school time and summer enrichment. Managed by EmBe and supported by the school district, EmBe provides high-quality care and diverse enrichment activities, including STEM exploration, sports, dance, cooking, and life-skill development. Homework help and tutoring extend learning beyond the school day.

Through this partnership, EmBe continues to support the workforce and the children we serve, expanding access to enriching experiences, and empowering more children to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for our community.

In Her Shoes

AT THIS TABLE, EVERYONE IS WELCOME

Angelica Mercado-Ford: Inspiring Empowerment

Angelica Mercado-Ford was the featured keynote speaker for our In Her Shoes Empowerment Breakfast 2023. Originally from Jalisco, Mexico, her journey is one of remarkable achievement and dedication to community support of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Angelica’s art and poetry, focusing on themes of womanhood, migration, and cultural identity, have earned her national recognition. “My book of poetry, TODO REVOLUCIONA, talks about the in-betweenness of being me, a Mexican American, and making peace with the gray area,” she explained.

Angelica delivered a powerful speech to the audience, sharing her experience as a Mexican American woman and emphasizing inclusivity and solidarity.

As

women, we are constantly put up against each other. When

I shrink, you

shrink; when I grow,

you grow. Being small doesn’t

When I’m at my

do us any service.

best, others

can

be encouraged to be their best. Progress doesn’t come unless we are all on the same page.

Angelica is committed to making a difference as an educator, author, and public speaker.

“This was the biggest audience I had spoken to, to date; I took it on as a challenge to stretch myself and share my story,” she recalls.

“The theme of the event, that everyone is welcome at the table, resonated deeply with me. It was empowering and encouraging to share my story and hear the stories of other women. I was honored to be able to support and uplift women and leaders in our community.”

- ANGELICA MERCADO-FORD

Angelica’s accolades, including the Young Woman of Achievement award at EmBe’s Tribute to Women event in October of 2023 and recognition in the Sioux Falls Business 30 Under 30, reflect her dedication to growth and excellence.

Through her poetry readings and visits to speak at schools, universities, and museums, Angelica strives to educate people on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, building empathy in our community. She continues seeking opportunities to be of service and benefit. She’s working on another book of poetry and art projects and has organized poetry readings to support and encourage other writers and artists.

Looking forward, Angelica aims to establish a mentorship program for first-generation immigrant students. EmBe was honored to have Angelica share her story with attendees of the In Her Shoes Empowerment Breakfast, uplifting the potential for women leaders in our community. Angelica emulates the power of women supporting women with her commitment to creating an environment of respect and fairness for all. She advocates for equality through her art, poetry, and speeches, encouraging others to embrace their stories. Angelica’s vision for a more inclusive society sets a precedent for future leaders, emphasizing the importance of empathy and support in our communities.

50 Years of Tribute to Women

The 50th Annual Tribute to Women Awards, one of EmBe’s signature events celebrating the profound impact of women and businesses in the Sioux Empire, was held on October 19 at the Washington Pavilion. This historic ceremony, recognized as the longest-standing award honoring women in the region, selected nine honorees from an impressive 71 nominations, underscoring the community’s appreciation for leadership and service.

Established in 1974 by the late Sylvia Henkin as a Leader Luncheon, the Tribute to Women Awards began with five categories and has since grown to include nine, celebrating over 350 winners and thousands of nominees throughout its history. EmBe’s Chief Development Officer, Susanne Gale, reflected on the event’s legacy, expressing gratitude towards the nominators and sponsors, “This year has allowed us to mark time to honor all the remarkable individuals, past and present, that are an extension of EmBe’s mission to empower women and families in our community.”

Marlene Rance, one of the initial participants in organizing and planning the event from its inception, shared her emotional experience:

When

I entered the 50th Annual Event, I was so moved to see the names of the past winners over the years on stars on the floor. It was humbling and overwhelming, and I am honored to be part of such an amazing organization and community.

- MARLENE RANCE

The honorees for the 50th Annual Tribute to Women Awards are:

• Banking & Finance: Arin Gonseth, MarketBeat

• Business Achievement: Sara Waltner, Raven Industries

• Community Service: Susan Williams, The Transformation Project

• EmBeliever Award: Sheri Fischer, Sanford USD Medical Center and Sanford Health Clinics

• Government & Law: Erica Schipper, MD, Sanford Health

• Healthcare & STEM: Jen Canton, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center

• Humanities & Education: Willette Capers, Augustana University

• Sylvia Henkin Mentoring Award: Julie Ward, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center

• Young Woman of Achievement: Angelica Mercado-Ford, Poet, Author, Sioux Falls School District

The event successfully raised funds to support EmBe’s century-old mission, ensuring continued empowerment and support for women and families in the community.