OUR HISTORY

With a history spanning more than a century, Children’s Home Society (CHS) is the oldest human service agency in South Dakota.

CHS began as an orphanage in 1893, providing home and refuge for abused and unwanted children.  Thousands of Dakota’s children were cared for and placed with new families.  In addition, CHS co-founders, William and Elizabeth Sherrard, authored the first child protection laws for the State of South Dakota.

Children’s Home Society served as South Dakota’s principal orphanage until the mid-1960’s when the foster care concept was introduced and implemented by the state, and became the preferred method of caring for children in crisis.

Since the early 1970’s, Children’s Home Society has provided a home, school, and therapy for children, ages 4-13, with emotional and behavioral problems.  Most are victims of extreme abuse and neglect.

Long regarded a state leader that champions the welfare of children, Children’s Home Society’s mission continues—to protect, support, and enhance the lives of children and families.

More detailed information about the history of Children’s Home Society may be found in the book A Century of Love, written by Robert Karolevitz.  A book may be purchased by contacting Children’s Home Society.  Copies are also available on loan in every public library in South Dakota.