The South Dakota Runaway Network (SDRN) is coordinated by Volunteers of America, Dakotas with sites located in Aberdeen, Rapid City and Sioux Falls. Volunteers of America also implements National Safe Place activities.

24/7 Crisis Phone Number

In Sioux Falls: 334-1414 or Statewide: 1-800-365-8336

The purpose of the network is to:

• Alleviate the immediate needs of runaway youth
• Reunite children with their families whenever possible and to encourage the resolution of family problems through counseling
• Strengthen family relationships and encourage stable living conditions for youth to help them choose a future course of action.

These goals are in keeping with the philosophies of the National Runaway and Homeless Youth Act that provides grant moneys to support this program. Runaways can receive shelter, case management, counseling, and transportation assistance to return home or to another safe place as agreed upon by youth, parents/guardians, and Volunteers of America, Dakotas staff.

Contacts

Joan Neilan
430 W. 11th St.
Sioux Falls, SD
Phone: (605) 336-7536
Fax: (605) 336-7759
Email: j.neilan@voa-dakotas.org

Eileen Spellacy Leir
24 E. New York St.
Rapid City, SD
Phone: (605) 341-8336
Fax: (605) 348-0919
Email: e.leir@voa-dakotas.org

Cindy Goehring
112 N. Main St.
Aberdeen, SD 57401
Phone: (605) 262-1007
Fax: (605) 262-1008
Email: c.goehring@voa-dakotas.org

The mission of the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) is to help keep America's runaway and at-risk youth safe and off the streets. The organization serves as the federally designated national communication system for runaway and homeless youth.

NATIONAL RUNAWAY SWITCHBOARD

The mission of the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) is to help keep America's runaway and at-risk youth safe and off the streets. The organization serves as the federally designated national communication system for runaway and homeless youth.

NATIONAL RUNAWAY SWITCHBOARD

1.6 million teens run away each year in the United States. Thousands will end up dead, and even more will be exploited. Most in Sioux Falls are reunited with their families, and help is available for them in Sioux Falls.

FULL STORY AND VIDEO

1.6 million teens run away each year in the United States. Thousands will end up dead, and even more will be exploited. Most in Sioux Falls are reunited with their families, and help is available for them in Sioux Falls.

FULL STORY AND VIDEO