Empowering Every Story,
Who We Are
Welcome to Disability Rights South Dakota (DRSD), where every individual is valued and supported. Since 1977, we’ve been passionately advocating for the rights of people with disabilities across our state. From addressing neglect and abuse in special education to becoming a beacon of support for individuals of all ages and abilities, DRSD is committed to celebrating diversity and empowering self-advocacy.
Who We Serve
At DRSD, we’re here for anyone in need of support and understanding. Whether you’re a student navigating the education system or a parent advocating for your child’s rights, our inclusive community is ready to walk alongside you. From infants to seniors, from urban centers to rural communities, we serve with compassion and dedication. If you’re facing challenges related to disability, know that you’re not alone. DRSD is here to listen, support, and empower you every step of the way.
What We Do
At DRSD, our focus is on creating positive change and promoting inclusivity. Through our advocacy services, we work tirelessly to break down barriers, challenge discrimination, and empower individuals with disabilities to live life to the fullest. Whether you need legal assistance, educational resources, or support navigating essential services, DRSD is here to help. Together, we can build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Our services are based on program eligibility as well as annual goals and priorities approved by the DRSD Board of Directors.
*Typical priority areas include:
Individual Case Services
- Assistive Technology Access
- Special Education Assistance
- Protection and Advocacy Services
- Vocational and Rehabilitation Support
- Community and Workplace Integration
- Guardianship Guidance and Alternatives
- Employment (Disability) Discrimination Advocacy
Systemic Activity
- Investigations
- Monitoring of Service Providers
- Community and Workplace Integration
- Employment (Disability) Discrimination
- Guardianship Guidance and Alternatives
- Institutional Abuse, Neglect, & Exploitation
- Voter Registration and Voting Accessibility Advocacy
- Education, Training, & Self-Advocacy Support Programs
* While our areas of direct assistance are shaped by federal guidelines, we understand that your challenges may extend beyond those listed above. Don’t hesitate to reach out—whether it’s for information, guidance, or connections to suitable resources, we’re here to support you. Your well-being is our top priority!
A Featured Personal Story from Our Blog
Advocating for their visually impaired sons, Jennifer and Justin Scheff turned to Disability Rights SD for support. With their advocate’s help, they collaborated with the school district to create an inclusive learning environment. From fostering respectful dialogue to thinking outside the box, the advocate’s assistance paved the way for Jaxon, a successful first-grader, and laid the framework for Jeren’s upcoming kindergarten journey.
Inspiring Testimonials
“I am very humbled and proud to be part of this great program. Partners has totally changed the way I think, act and speak about people and their disabilities. I vow to continue this knowledge through advocating what I have learned at Partners. I find myself looking for ways I can help or educate.”
“We, as parents, must be diligent in keeping history from repeating itself. We must continue to push forward at every opportunity to remove many of the barriers that continue to prevent people with disabilities from having the same rights and opportunities as people without disabilities.”
“I learned how special education teachers and regular education teachers need to work collaboratively in order to make inclusion work. Inclusion is not sticking a child with a disability in the regular classroom without supports and expecting him/her to learn exactly what the other children are learning.”
“The supported employment session gave me a lot to think about as my daughter grows up and wants to enter into the job market. The thing I learned was that it is not too early to start thinking about what skills she will need, what supports are required and to find out what she would like to do.”
“Partners changed my life. I used to be the mother from hell—ready for battling with whoever to ensure my daughter received the supports she needed. Partners showed me how to be effective to create a win-win situation. It gave me the confidence I needed to show others the importance and impact of directing your own services.”
Proposed PADD Priorities and Objectives – FY27
Each year, DRSD posts the proposed Priorities and Objectives (also referred to as the Goals and Priorities) for the PADD program for public comment and input.
In accordance with 45 CFR §1326.22(d), these Priorities will be open for public comment for a minimum of 45 days, after which time they will be presented to the DRSD Governing Board for final approval. The approved Priorities will inform DRSD’s casework in the coming year, shaping our advocacy efforts for individuals with disabilities and their families. Because of this, input from stakeholders across the state is vital!
If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about the proposed PADD Priorities and Objectives, please contact the PADD Program Lead to share your feedback at Amanda.Martin@drsdlaw.org.