Empowerment Starts Here
EmBe’s beginnings are rooted in meetings in 1921 that formed the YWCA in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The vision to serve women and families has remained strong, empowering people to create lives of meaning and purpose, creating a community that serves everyone well.
Mission
Empowering women and families to enrich lives.
Vision
We transform lives, supporting success at work, at home and in life.
Values
Leading, Empowering & Inspiring
Board of Directors
The EmBe Board of Directors and committee members are the connection between the community and our mission – providing leadership and vision to our organization. They provide guidance and governance, often offering unique skill sets and support to our staff. The Board of Directors and committee members consist of influential women and men of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds ranging from human resources and law to finance and communications.

John Meyer
Chair – Leadership South Dakota

Brian Gramm
Treasurer – Journey Group Companies

Natasha Smith
Secretary – Sanford Health

Sonja Theisen
Immediate Past Chair – Pathward

Rebecca Dahmen-Ponnezhan
Avera

Joe Beck
Viaflex

Beth Jensen
Keloland Media Group

Alissa Matt
University of South Dakota

Andrew Curley
MIDCO

Antionette Jensen
Wells Fargo

Melanie Carpenter
Woods Fuller Schultz & Smith P.C.
Leadership
The EmBe Senior Leadership Team is a diverse group, united in their connection and passion for EmBe’s mission and serving this community.
Documents and Reports
The support of people like you help EmBe to continue to serve the community well. The following materials share more detail about our fiscal responsibility.
Community Partners
The EmBe vision encompasses collaboration and partnerships as a vehicle to enhance the programs and services our organization provides to the Sioux Falls community. As a supporter of EmBe programs and services, these relationships help to ensure:
- Parents can choose a career outside the home because their children have safe, quality childcare in their absence.
- School Age Care Programs such as “no school” days allow parents to maintain a full work day if desired.
- Girls gain leadership skills that carry with them into adulthood.
- Skill-enhancing and fun programs are available to kids throughout the year.
