Since opening our doors in 1983, Ronald McDonald House South Dakota has grown from a simple idea into a powerful, community-supported mission. Starting with one House in Sioux Falls, we’ve expanded to serve thousands of families across South Dakota and beyond.
Here are some key milestones that highlight our growth, made possible by the compassion and generosity of people who believe families stay stronger together.
When Philadelphia Eagles player Fred Hill’s daughter Kim is diagnosed with leukemia, the team rallies behind pediatric oncologist Dr. Audrey Evans, who had long envisioned a place where families could stay close while their children received medical care. With support from Eagles General Manager Jimmy Murray, that vision becomes reality and the first Ronald McDonald House is established.
On December 15, 1983, the Sioux Falls House becomes the 55th Ronald McDonald House to open worldwide. Located at 2001 South Norton Avenue, the House features 9 bedrooms. Shelley Nelson Hanisch serves as the organization’s first Executive Director.
The Board of Directors determined that the constant at-capacity and long wait list at the House meant it needed to grow. The decision was made to build two new Ronald McDonald Houses, one near Sanford Children’s Hospital, one near Avera McKennan Hospital.
In partnership with Delta Dental of South Dakota, the SD Department of Health, and our local McDonald’s owner/operators, the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile launches — a mobile dental clinic bringing free oral health care and education directly to underserved children across the state.
The Mobile Program has transitioned all operations to Delta Dental of South Dakota with two vehicles serving more than 3,000 children across the state each year.
The new Ronald McDonald House at 808 East 24th Street near Avera McKennan Hospital opens. The 8 guest rooms double the capacity of Ronald McDonald House South Dakota to serve families.
The new Ronald McDonald House with capacity for 18 guest families opens at 825 South Lake Avenue, near Sanford Children’s Hospital.
The Board of Directors votes to build out 3 additional guest bedrooms in the lower level of the Lake Avenue House near Sanford.
Ronald McDonald House South Dakota commemorates its milestone 40th anniversary with a Red Gala, an evening celebrating four decades of serving families in need.
In partnership with Monument Health, we started construction of the first Ronald McDonald House in Western South Dakota. The 12-bedroom House at 3140 Elm Avenue in Rapid City will expand access to services for more than 600 families each year.
Creating the Northwestern Mutual Serenity Garden gives families a dedicated outdoor respite area. Designed to support physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, the garden provides fresh ingredients for family meals while offering a space to rest and recharge.
The Lake Avenue House kitchen undergoes a full renovation after more than 14 years of continuous use, updating appliances and meal prep areas to better serve families and volunteer cooks.
