Creating opportunities that enrich lives.
LifeQuest is committed to promoting a community of acceptance and care. We believe the following values are important in our vision to help all people succeed and be valued:
» Dignity and respect
» Health and safety
» Rights and responsibilities
» Freedom of choice
» Meaningful and trusting relationships
» Ability to achieve goals and dreams
» Opportunity to experience and celebrate life
ZACH’S LIFEQUEST SUPPORT SYSTEM:
When ZACH walks into a room, the world instantly gets brighter thanks to his contagious smile and friendly greeting. He’s a gregarious young man who loves morning coffee, baseball, and hanging out with his friends. Zach is thriving at the Gamble Street home, where he is loved and supported by amazing Direct Support Professionals like Tasha.
“ When I applied for a job, I thought I was going to be cooking and cleaning at the house. Little did I know I was walking into a family. LifeQuest is amazing. It’s all about helping people live their best lives. That includes the people being served and the people who work here.”
TASHA / DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL
LifeQuest has been part of the Mitchell Community since 1959, operating under different names along the way but always working towards the mission of creating opportunities that enrich lives.
LifeQuest’s mission was founded on the belief that creating an opportunity for one enriches the lives of many. This non-profit organization surrounds people with loving supports and the ability to experience life in a meaningful and rewarding way. With the support of LifeQuest, their families and community, people can share their talents through employment, volunteering, art/music, attending community events, church and more. Here, friendships grow and meaningful relationships develop.
“ LifeQuest is guided in the belief that all people contribute to the lives of each other and their community, and that all people are better when we share, live and grow together. That belief is carried out through countless partnerships, creating opportunities that enrich lives.”
PAM HANNA / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
With over 170 people being served through LifeQuest in the Mitchell area, there is always an opportunity to celebrate a birthday. You can bet CINDY will be there to help make it happen.
Cindy lives at the Gamble Street home and has her own balloon bouquet business. The business gives her a boost of self-worth, provides her with purpose and helps her feel valued. Cindy enjoys visiting with friends and family, shopping, watching movies, playing games and going out to eat with her sisters.
“ Cindy loves volunteering and she stays busy with all the activities here at LifeQuest, plus her family is nearby so she looks forward to spending time with them. She isn’t able to live on her own, but she lives a really full and independent life with our help. And we are so glad to be here for her.”
DENISE / RESIDENTIAL HOME SUPERVISOR
LifeQuest provides support services to people who enjoy the companionship of sharing a family-style home while still having the privacy of their own bedroom, decorated to match their unique style and personality. These homes provide an environment of learning life skills such as cooking, laundry, and other tasks to care for themselves and their home. Fun and laughter are plentiful, as people spend time playing games, crafting, gardening and experiencing a sense of security, knowing that a Direct Support Professional is there for them. Spending time with family and friends and engaging in community life by volunteering, attending local events and supporting community activities is an essential aspect of group living supports.
JESSICA loves the ability to decorate her own apartment, located in the nicely maintained Wheatridge complex in Mitchell. Jessica works at Dakota Wesleyan University and lives alone, but has the support of a Direct Support Professional and friends from LifeQuest who live just down the hall.
With all the comforts of home, Supervised Apartment Living affords people the “my home” concept, while knowing a Direct Support Professional is nearby to help them maintain their home, learn life skills and provide them with companionship. There are times when people come together in fun and friendship, to share a meal, play a game or celebrate birthdays. Attending movies, concerts, plays, church, sporting events and other activities give people individual choices and creates opportunities to be involved with the community.
Everyone needs a check-in from time to time. Community Living helps people maintain and live in homes with the help of a Direct Support Professional who provides supports through home visits. People may receive contact as frequently as once a day. For others, it may be once or twice a week. Community Life is a big part of Community Living. People engage in service clubs, local events and activities, spending time with friends and other opportunities that interest them.
LIFEQUEST SUPPORT SYSTEM:
DALE lives at Cathedral Square Apartments in Mitchell where he lives on his own with home visits from LifeQuest’s Direct Support Professionals. Dale loves being part of the Community Support Program, 401 Create and his community. He enjoys concerts, community events and laughing with friends. Dale connected to LifeQuest after a former elementary classmate gave him a ride home and realized he needed a better living and support system. Susan Kiepke is now Dale’s friend and guardian and an avid supporter of LifeQuest.
“
LifeQuest enhances Dale’s life in so many ways including community involvement, allowing him to express his feelings through art at 401 Create, interactive activities, and experiences such as concerts, ball games and other types of entertainment. Dale is living his best life thanks to LifeQuest!”
SUSAN KIEPKE / DALE’S GUARDIAN
SEYMORA’S LIFEQUEST SUPPORT SYSTEM:
“ Seymora is working toward more independence every day. Through her ability to work and volunteer, she is learning what it means to be a valued part of a community.”
APRIL
/ DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL
SEYMORA enjoys her days at LifeQuest where she is learning tools to help her grow and advocate for herself. She is a lively young woman who lives in a group home, thrives in her part-time job at Pizza Ranch and volunteers at Reclamation Ranch. She considers everyone a friend and likes to tease and joke with LifeQuest staff. She has her own room and expresses her colorful personality through her wardrobe, often wearing crazy socks and brightly colored shirts.
LifeQuest offers a variety of Day Services that provide a fun, social atmosphere designed to help people strengthen life skills, participate in activities of interest, and be involved in their community. Our programs can also help build skills related to employment and professional growth, volunteering, accessing the community, and strive to support people as they get in touch with their inquisitive and creative sides.
JOEL’S LIFEQUEST SUPPORT SYSTEM:
JOEL suffered a traumatic brain injury and moved to LifeQuest to be closer to his family. He lives in a group home and participates in Day Services, where he brightens the days at LifeQuest by sharing his competitive side when playing games, exploring his interests, and enjoying the many activities offered. Joel is a big sports fan and loves watching and attending sporting events.
“ Because their jobs don’t take up their whole day, people come here for the opportunity to learn more job and life skills and to have fun. I love working with the people here and helping them grow. To be honest, they help me grow, too.”
LIZ
“ We had no idea someone could play piano until they sat down and started playing. Another person came alive as an artist, and yet another discovered a passion for gardening and plants. 401 Create has been an amazing blessing to LifeQuest. This space allows us to offer a rich schedule of activities where community members are encouraged to take initiative and join us. ”
DARLA MCGUIRE / PROGRAM MANAGER
LifeQuest had a vision for a space to bring people together by sharing their gifts and talents. In 2021, LifeQuest purchased a building on Main Street in Mitchell and renovated the space into a bright, open place for gathering in the name of creativity. With over 6,000 square feet, 401 Create has incorporated a full kitchen for cooking, open spaces for music and dancing, dedicated art tables and interactive technology. Big windows allow the sun to stream in, and moveable lounge furniture invites people to just hang out and be together.
Music is a powerful way to reach people at LifeQuest. Frequent “jam sessions” attract a large and rowdy crowd, and karaoke sessions are always a favorite.
“ What is happening here is so much more than I ever imagined. Helping people tap into unknown talent and express their creativity is the most rewarding thing. It’s impossible to be in a bad mood when you come into 401 Create.”
JENNIFER
401 CREATE DIRECTOR
One of the key reasons for 401 Create is to help community members connect with LifeQuest. Volunteers are welcome to host creative sessions or workshops, or just to help out with fun events such as bingo or trivia. To get connected, simply contact 401 Create with an idea, or 401 Create can help brainstorm ways to be involved. Community involvement comes from individuals, businesses, organizations, churches, sports teams, youth groups and more.
BRITTNEY lives at home where there is a lot of laughter and hours of listening to music! Brittany’s mother is her care provider full time. Through Shared Living, the family has access to a LifeQuest Shared Living Specialist who works alongside them to coordinate plans and maintain certifications and documentation in order to receive funding.
“ We started Shared Living in 2019. This is a forward-focused program that continues to grow, and it’s something I am very passionate about. Because of this program, we are able to help more people receive services in their own homes and communities, with the combined support of LifeQuest and their families and friends.”
JESSICA LANG / P ROGRAM DIRECTOR
In addition to our traditional services, LifeQuest extends support to people with disabilities in eastern and central South Dakota through our Shared Living and Family Support Services. Both of these services help people with disabilities live in and contribute to their communities.
Family Support Services are offered through local or regional programs in eastern and central South Dakota.
Shared Living allows people with disabilities to live in a private home with the support of a host provider/ companion. Care can be provided by qualified people over the age of 21 who have the desire and capability to share a life and provide assistance to a person with a disability. This could be a family member, friend, college student, single person, empty nester or anyone who has a heart to help others. Participants can live in the home of the care provider, or the care provider can live in the home of the participant. Shared Living is an option for any person with a disability who is interested in this type of living arrangement and is eligible for services.
Family Support 360 allows children and adults with disabilities to stay in their homes by helping them receive funding for special services, adaptive equipment and supports not otherwise available. Each person receiving Family Support 360 chooses a Family Support Coordinator to help navigate state funded services, resources and disability rights. There are eligibility requirements for this program, which are set by the Department of Social Services.
Services and support include but are not limited to:
» Service coordination for community resources
» Referral services
» Companion care
» Specialized medical equipment
» Adaptive equipment
» Respite care
» Home modifications for accessibility
» Vehicle modifications
» Personal care assistance
» Supported employment
» Nutritional supplements
LifeQuest is proud of their connection with the Milbank community and the opportunity to offer a variety of supports including day services, job development and coordination of services. This is an active program that thrives while contributing to their community and utilizing all that the area has to offer!
Career Connections is a non-profit organization owned and operated by LifeQuest. The staff works closely with people to help them find employment that fits their skills , personalities and life goals. Career Connections also provides support and assistance to area employers so that the job match is a positive experience for all involved.
Services offered through Career Connections include:
» Job placement
» Job shadowing
» Job coaching
» Job analysis
» Follow along services
» Situational evaluation assessments
RACHEL’S LIFEQUEST SUPPORT SYSTEM:
Through Career Connections, RACHEL secured a part-time job at Culver’s, where she has been a familiar face for years. Customers love her hard working, friendly attitude and the Culver’s staff enjoys having her on board. Rachel lives at Wheatridge Apartments and enjoys spending time with her family in Epiphany.
“ The Mitchell community is welcoming and willing to open their doors and hire people from LifeQuest. Employers trust us and know we work hard to fit the right people to the right jobs.”
KALA ARAGON, CES / CAREER CONNECTIONS DIRECTOR
There is never a dull moment at LifeQuest! Opportunities await many through the open doors and hearts of community members. Community businesses, organizations and entities make it easy for LifeQuest to enjoy the many amenities available in Mitchell.
People create lasting memories and friendships as they participate in community activities and join others who share their same interests:
» Watching movies, plays and performing arts
» Participating in recreation and fitness activities
» Cheering on local sports teams
» Joining activities such as bowling and bingo
» Visiting local parks and fishing on Lake Mitchell
» Participating in local theater productions
» Enjoying events at the Corn Palace
» Volunteering at community events
“ We love working with LifeQuest. It’s a great partnership we’ve had for years. We have something for everyone at the Mitchell Recreation Center, and it’s rewarding to see the smiles and happy faces.”
KEVIN DEVRIES / RECREATION SUPERVISOR, MITCHELL REC CENTER
LifeQuest partners with organizations like the Mitchell Public Safety Office to enhance our services. Through this partnership, awareness is increased for health and safety situations such as fire/tornado, crisis response and internet safety, making LifeQuest a safer place for all.
“ We are committed to keeping people safe, and work closely with LifeQuest to ensure they are up-to-date on training, security and technology. It’s a great relationship and one we really value.”
MIKE KOSTER / CEO, MITCHELL CHIEF OF POLICE
county fair
County Fair Food Store is among one of the many businesses where people shop. Whether it be for groceries, clothes, things for the home or something fun, we count on the many welcoming businesses. County Fair is one of the several businesses who partner with us to employ people. The store staff and management make both employment and shopping friendly and enjoyable.
“ In today’s tight job market, LifeQuest helps us find people who want to work with our customers, who enjoy working here and who can always be counted on to show up and do their best. Our partnership with LifeQuest is a win-win.”
CHAD LORENSEN / STORE DIRECTOR, COUNTY FAIR FOOD STORE
“ LifeQuest makes our community richer, more diverse and just more joyful. We are fortunate to have them as a partner in our workforce, our volunteer organizations, our schools and as a proud part of a vibrant Main Street.”
GERI BECK / CEO, MITCHELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
In addition to bringing value to the area workforce, LifeQuest also gives back to the community by volunteering and taking part in a variety of community efforts. You’ll find volunteers from LifeQuest happily ringing bells for the Salvation Army, packing backpacks for the Mitchell Weekend Snack Pack Program, donating crafts and artwork to local silent auctions and so much more. The mission of LifeQuest is to “create opportunities that enrich lives,” and volunteering is a big part of that mission.
Therapeutic horses at Reclamation Ranch are a gift to the Mitchell community, and so are the kind-hearted people operating the local nonprofit. Reclamation Ranch welcomes volunteers from LifeQuest to help care for all the animals at Reclamation Ranch, which is a special kind of therapy all in itself.
Earning a two-year certification from an accredited college is made possible for people thanks to a unique partnership with Dakota Wesleyan University. Not only do students become integrated into the academic world at DWU, but they are also encouraged to participate in the college experience by attending events, volunteering and participating in extracurricular activities. The DWU Program includes classes geared toward work skills, self-confidence, independence and community involvement.
“ When students complete the twoyear certification requirements they are recognized at the DWU graduation ceremony. It is truly a special recognition for the DWU/LifeQuest students as their accomplishments and involvement on campus and in the community are shared with those in attendance—almost always to a standing ovation.”
ROXI BROWN / SECONDARY EDUCATION COORDINATOR, DWU/LIFEQUEST PROGRAM
“ I needed a part-time job while attending DWU, and LifeQuest had the best hours. I didn’t know what to expect as a Direct Support Professional, but I fell in love with the people. After I graduated with a Business Finance degree, I worked for a bank in Brookings. When a position opened at LifeQuest for a Business Manager, I went for it. I work with the people in the business office, but I have the opportunity for a lot of interaction with the people here, which is such a bonus. It’s like the best of both worlds.”
JORDAN UNTERBRUNNER / BUSINESS MANAGER
There are so many ways you can be involved in helping people live their best lives!
LifeQuest is always looking for caring people who want to make a difference. We offer a variety of schedules, competitive pay, great benefits and a career path you can build a life around.
» Direct Support Professionals work a set schedule that fits into their life, with additional pay for weekend and overnight hours
» No experience or degree necessary— we train on the job
» Direct Support Professionals must be 18 years of age with a valid driver’s license
» To enquire what positions are available, check out lifequestsd.com or reach out to LifeQuest’s HR department at 605-996-2032.
We are deeply grateful for our volunteers at LifeQuest. There are so many ways we could use your time and talents to help extend our services! Just let us know how you would like to help. Here are just some of the volunteer opportunities available:
» Spend one-on-one time with someone
» Play cards, read books, make crafts, go for walks
» Have lunch with someone
» Enjoy a night out or attend a sporting event
» Bring or prepare a meal at a home
» Invite someone over for dinner or to go to church
» Share a cup of coffee and make a new friend
» Remember someone on their birthday
» Share a well-mannered pet
If you own a business and would like information about hiring people from LifeQuest, we would love to hear from you! You can find out more at lifequestsd.com.
The LifeQuest Foundation is here to help ensure gifts of all shapes and sizes are best used to help the people at LifeQuest. We accept donations of all kinds, including goods and services, and are so appreciative of the generous spirit in our communities. If you would like to donate or have questions about a gift, contact Brian Loken at foundation@lifequestsd.com. You can also give through our website at LifeQuestFoundation.org.
Thank you!
“ LifeQuest really does good work and makes such an impact on people’s lives. There is a real generous spirit here that helps make all this good work possible. I am fortunate to get to work around people who love our mission and also people who help fund our mission. Both sides give me energy I can’t find anywhere else.”
BRIAN
LOKEN / LIFEQUEST FOUNDATION DIRECTOR
