In 1965, Youth & Family Services (YFS) began with little more than a $665 bank balance, a few craft supplies and a fierce determination to serve the girls of Rapid City. Today, this grassroots effort has evolved into a comprehensive human
services anchor serving over 14,000 children and families
annually across 31 western South Dakota counties.
YFS’s growth has always been fueled by filling community gaps. Originally known as the Girls Club, the agency provided a vital sanctuary for its earliest members. “Going to the Girls Club meant that I was safe. I loved being there with adults who listened to what I had to say,” recalled Pam May, an original member who later served on the YFS staff for 26 years. Pam is pictured here holding a photo of her time at Girls Club, now YFS’s Girls Inc. program.
As needs shifted, YFS expanded into food programs, counseling and childcare. In 1991, the organization rebranded to Youth & Family Services to reflect its widening scope. By bringing nine distinct programs under one umbrella, YFS streamlined its impact. YFS continues to meet the needs of girls through its Girls Inc. Program. “Our Board of Directors recognized that having them all under one umbrella eliminated duplication. This strategic planning made it possible to allocate more dollars directly to services,” explained retired CEO Susan Fedell. This efficiency remains a hallmark of the agency, with 88% of the budget dedicated to program costs.
In late 2025, YFS was awarded the Bush Prize – South Dakota for its transformational impact. Current CEO John Julius credits this success to decades of vision: “This is a testament to the quality leadership and hard work of YFS’ talented and skilled board members and staff throughout the past 60 years.”
From its humble beginnings on West Boulevard to its recent 67,000-square-foot expansion, YFS remains dedicated to its original goal of meeting the needs of vulnerable populations. As Chief Development Officer Connie Olson noted, “Our staff meet the children and their families where they are and respond to their needs with an open and accepting heart.”
Pictured: Pam May
1920 North Plaza Boulevard
Rapid City, SD 57702
youthandfamilyservices.org
