Family Support Council

Mission Statement
To advocate for the development of a permanent statewide system of family supports to ensure children with developmental disabilities may remain at home with their families.



A bill was passed during the 1994 legislative session to create the Family Support Council. The Council was assigned the tasks of assisting in the design, implementation, regulation and evaluation of family support services in South Dakota.

The first Council members were appointed the following July. The members appointed to this Council are all representative of families in South Dakota with children with developmental disabilities. Their appointment to this Council makes them a voice for many families, not just their own. Council members are appointed with an attempt to maintain representation across the state.

Family members of children with developmental disabilities are encouraged to call or write Council members within their area of the state to share personal experiences and what they believe is needed for family support services. Inquiries regarding the Family Support Council and its membership can be directed to the Department of Human Services, Division of Developmental Disabilities.

The Council continues to function through Executive Order of Governor M. Michael Rounds.

Council meetings are held quarterly in different locations within the state. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.

List of family support council members

Family Support Grievance Process

Next Council Event:
The Family Support Council meets quarterly.

Times and location to be announced.

Call 1-800-265-9684 for details and/or agenda for these events.

Contact Kelly Newman, Council Chairperson, 605-543-6888 with questions regarding the Family Support Council.