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

We uplift the potential in children, women, and families through opportunities that empower all.

Vision

A community where children thrive, women excel, and families succeed.

Values

Curiosity, Authenticity, Leadership & Connection

Leadership

At the heart of EmBe is a culture in that leadership should be shared, intergenerational and transformative. Our Leadership Team is a diverse group, united in their connection and passion for EmBe’s mission and serving this community. Behind our name are great people: employees, board members, donors, and volunteers.

Kerri Tietgen
Kerri TietgenChief Executive Officer
Susanne Gale
Susanne GaleChief Development Officer
Katy Morris
Katy MorrisChief Human Resources Officer
Kelly Ballew
Kelly BallewExecutive Director of Childcare and School Age Care
Rachel Gross
Rachel GrossExecutive Assistant
Bailey Sprinkel
Bailey SprinkelHR Generalist
Sydney Buchmann
Sydney BuchmannController
Shalee Pitman
Shalee PitmanChildcare Site Manager - Downtown
Caitlin Rothschadl
Caitlin RothschadlChildcare Site Manager - South
Derrick Spader
Derrick SpaderDirector of School Age Care
Sadie Mudder
Sadie MudderCustomer Service and Billing Manager
Sarah Meagher
Sarah MeagherDirector of Curriculum and Licensing
Jamie Oyen
Jamie OyenExecutive Director of Programs and Operations
Melissa Hiatt
Melissa HiattDirector of Women's Leadership
Amber Hodkinson
Amber HodkinsonFood Service Compliance Manager
Mikena VanLiere
Mikena VanLiereMarketing & Communications Manager
Rachel Fiegen
Rachel FiegenDonor Engagement & Events Coordinator

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.
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