LSS Mentoring Services has five programs under its umbrella -- three for youth and two for older adults! LSS matches volunteer mentors with children in the Sioux Falls area. The goal is to empower young people to succeed by establishing trusting relationships with adult volunteers. Good mentors have a significant impact on youth by providing guidance and developing consistent, long-term friendship
s. LSS operates three distinct youth mentoring programs. In School: mentoring in schools, grades PreK to 8
High School: mentoring in and out of schools, grades 9 to 12
Community: mentoring in the community, ages 7 to 14
LSS Better Together brings older adults ages 65 and up together with trained volunteers. The program operates in Minnehaha, Lincoln and Brookings counties. Better Together helps to establish trusting relationships and regular social opportunities between older adults who live on their own and LSS volunteers. The LSS Older Adult Resource Network (OARN) helps people ages 65 and older improve their quality of life where they put down roots. Aging in rural communities presents unique challenges that can limit access to healthcare, transportation, and other services that are vital for older adults to maintain their independence. The OARN Program is available in Douglas and Charles Mix counties. There is no charge for any of the services that are offered by LSS Mentoring Services.