As the Families First program officially comes to a close, we pause to honor the deep and meaningful impact it made on families across the Black Hills. Housed within the Community & Family Services (CFS) division of Black Hills Special Services Cooperative (BHSSC), and funded through a vital partnership with the South Dakota Department of Health, Families First was created to fill a critical gap in early childhood services—especially for families who fall between eligibility lines for traditional programs.
Rooted in Connection
Families First was rooted in connection. Using the evidence-based Parents as Teachers model, our family education specialists provided in-home support tailored to each family’s unique needs. Whether helping parents set goals, guiding developmentally appropriate play, or tracking child milestones, the work centered on building trusting relationships.
We’re especially proud of our team—trusted community members and experienced professionals—who showed up with compassion, creativity, and consistency. Whether meeting at the kitchen table, a local park, or over a video call, they built the relationships that made real growth possible.
Here are just a few of the stories that show the program’s impact:
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A child who was once nonverbal now initiates conversations with their rapidly expanding vocabulary.
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A mother fulfilled her decade-long dream of enrolling in school.
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A family transitioned from a crowded basement apartment to a stable home—and hosted Thanksgiving for the very first time.
These stories remind us what’s possible when families are supported, seen, and celebrated.
Program Outcomes
The Families First program served families across five rural counties in South Dakota. Some key outcomes include:
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Nearly 800 home visits, reaching 63 families and 95 children
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98% of families reported daily early literacy activities like reading, singing, and storytelling
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93% of children were screened for developmental delays—100% of those identified were referred or received targeted support
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Over 90% of families reported increased parenting confidence, better stress management, and feeling more supported in their goals.
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Parents used CDC developmental milestone checklists to track progress and ask questions during medical and school visits.
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Families cited reduced isolation, more confidence, and practical tools that made day-to-day parenting easier.
A Collaborative Effort
Families First would not have been possible without the collaboration of many:
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South Dakota Department of Health for their consistent partnership
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Our colleagues at BHSSC who contributed their time, energy, and expertise
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Community organizations that referred families and supported our outreach
While we’re saddened by the program’s closure, we’re incredibly proud of the systems created, the trust built, and the legacy left behind.
Families First was more than a program—it was a reminder that every family is capable, and that relationships are the heart of early intervention.
Thank you to everyone who made this work possible.
We carry your stories forward.
