In this episode, the Coopers join us to share how a community food distribution in Beresford began - and grew - bringing to light just how much food insecurity exists in their backyard. What the Coopers didn't expect was for the program to abruptly end. This conversation displays the grit and passion that volunteers and communities have to ensure that nobody goes hungry.

In this episode, the Coopers join us to share how a community food distribution in Beresford began - and grew - bringing to light just how much food insecurity exists in their backyard. What the Coopers didn't expect was for the program to abruptly end. This conversation displays the grit and passion that volunteers and communities have to ensure that nobody goes hungry.

In this episode, we sit down with Chinelle and Molly from Sioux Valley Energy—a company that goes above and beyond when it comes to giving back. They share how their unique volunteering system empowers employees to serve their communities, deepen company culture, and stay connected to causes they care about—like Feeding South Dakota. Tune in to hear how energy meets impact in this inspiring conversation about corporate volunteerism done right.

Volunteer page:

feedingsouthdakota.org/volunteer

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

In this episode, we sit down with Kari and Karla from the South Dakota Department of Transportation to explore how their team's regular volunteering at Feeding South Dakota's Pierre location has fostered deeper connections and a strong sense of community. Discover how their consistent efforts have not only supported hunger relief but also strengthened team bonds and created lasting friendships. Tune in to hear how giving back has become a meaningful part of their work culture.

Volunteer page:

feedingsouthdakota.org/volunteer

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s about coming together. In this episode, we talk with Kathy & Gary Pillen, longtime volunteers at our Mobile Food Distributions in Rapid City. They share how their time serving others turned into something more: friendships, connection, and a true sense of community. Tune in for an inspiring story about the power of giving back!

Volunteer page:

feedingsouthdakota.org/volunteer

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Volunteers are the backbone of Feeding South Dakota. In this special episode leading up to Volunteer Appreciation Month, we sit down with Jennifer Stensaas, Community Engagement Manager, to talk about the impact volunteers make, the relationships built through service, and why every hour given helps fight hunger. PLUS, Stacey receives a very special gift from Jennifer in honor of the podcast! Tune in to hear why our volunteers are truly the heart of our mission!

Volunteer page:

feedingsouthdakota.org/volunteer

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

College students shouldn’t have to worry about where they will find their next meal while trying to focus on their studies. In this episode, we talk with Joseph Dlugos and Samantha Harkin of South Dakota School of Mines & Technology about food insecurity on college campuses. Learn how SD School of Mines is making a difference with programs like their on-campus food pantry, ensuring students have access to the nourishment they need to thrive. Tune in for a conversation on breaking down barriers to food access in higher education!

In this episode, we sit down with Mary Beth McClellan, from Monument Health, to discuss food insecurity in the Black Hills region. Learn how Monument Health is working to fight hunger, why food access is a critical part of health care, and how partnerships like theirs are making a difference. Tune in to hear how hunger and health go hand in hand!

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Hy-Vee is more than just a grocery store—it’s a community partner in the fight against hunger. In this episode, we sit down with Ivy Sprague, Hy-Vee’s Strategic Communications Director, to talk about why Hy-Vee donates food, how their partnership with Feeding South Dakota makes an impact, and supporting the communities that support Hy-Vee.

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

In this episode, the Coopers join us to share how a community food distribution in Beresford began - and grew - bringing to light just how much food insecurity exists in their backyard. What the Coopers didn't expect was for the program to abruptly end. This conversation displays the grit and passion that volunteers and communities have to ensure that nobody goes hungry.

In this episode, we talk with Brian Jans of Jans Corp and Site Coordinator at First United Methodist Church — two roles that reflect his deep commitment to community. Brian shares how his construction company helped build Feeding South Dakota’s facility, and how his continued involvement at First UMC supports our largest distribution site in Sioux Falls. This conversation dives into the power of local partnerships, city collaboration, and how community-led solutions are shaping the future of hunger relief in South Dakota.

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

In this episode, Feeding South Dakota CEO Lori Dykstra talks about the future of hunger relief through a powerful shift in service: Community Led Distributions. While our Mobile Food Distribution Program has helped us reach communities across the state, we know long-term success means empowering local partners to lead the charge. Lori shares how Feeding South Dakota is strengthening relationships with existing programs to build sustainable, community-driven solutions — because the best way to fight hunger is together.

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Folliard, Founder of Health + Nutrition First, to explore the intersection of public policy, nutrition, and food access. With years of experience as a dietitian and in public health policy in Washington, D.C., Jen shares insights on the issue of hunger and how we can combat it. We also dive into the creation of the South Dakota Healthy Nutrition Collaborative, a statewide effort bringing partners together to advocate for better nutrition and stronger, healthier communities.

Health + Nutrition First:

https://www.healthnutritionfirst.com/

South Dakota Healthy Nutrition Collaborative:

https://www.sdhealthynutritioncollaborative.com/

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

In this episode, we sit down with Kim Canete, who leads the Custer Storehouse food pantry. Kim shares what hunger looks like in a small rural town and how the challenges of distance, access, and limited resources shape the fight against food insecurity. Through it all, the Custer Storehouse remains a vital resource— proving that even in the most remote areas, compassion and community can keep families fed.

Custer Storehouse:

https://www.facebook.com/custerstorehouse/

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

In this special 50 Faces of Feeding South Dakota episode, we’re kicking off National Beef Month with Ryan Eichler, President of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation Board. Ryan shares how the strong partnership between the Foundation and Feeding South Dakota helps provide high-quality beef to families facing hunger across the state. He also gives us a preview of the Foundation’s upcoming Prime Time Gala and Concert — a major event with a major impact.

South Dakota Cattlemen's Foundation:

https://sdcattlemensfoundation.com/

https://primetimegalatables.com/

http://primetimegalaraffle.com/

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

In this episode, Dr. Christine Hockett, Director of Community Research at Avera Research Institute, joins us to talk about the often-overlooked issue of rural hunger. From social determinants of health to the critical role research plays in understanding food insecurity outside urban areas, Dr. Hockett explains why data matters — and how it can lead to real change for South Dakota’s most underserved communities.

Follow us:

Facebook - @FeedingSD

Instagram - @FeedingSD

LinkedIn - @FeedingSD

Our website:

https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Avera Research Institute:

https://www.avera.org/research-and-clinical-trials/research-institute/

In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Andrea & Owen Fischer, a mother-son duo who regularly volunteer their time to fight hunger. Owen shares what volunteering has taught him as a young person, from responsibility to empathy, while Andrea reflects on the joy of serving alongside her son and watching him grow through giving back. It’s a story about family, impact, and the power of showing up together.