Empowering the Parkinson's community through education, resources, and supportive connections
Mission
The South Dakota Parkinson Foundation is a group of dedicated and passionate staff and volunteers that are committed to helping and supporting our members with a unique and very personal touch. What started as a small support group formed at Sioux Valley Hospital in Sioux Falls has evolved into a state-wide organization that is focused on creating a future where no one affected by Parkinson's walks alone.
COURAGE
Facing Parkinson's with strength and resilience.
HOPE
Inspiring optimism and belief in a brighter future.
COMMUNITY
Building meaningful relationships so no one walks alone.
By your side, ready to help.
605-271-6113
Board of Directors
Rhonda Raue, President
Stephanie Myers, Vice President
Scott Ogdahl, Treasurer
Board Members:
Derek Simonsen, Barry Solomon,
Elizabeth Zemlicka, Dr. Al Nord
Past Board Presidents:
Willis Wibbin (1984-1986), Marilyn Schultz (1986),
Bernice Christopherson, Elaine Spader (2004-2009),
Mary Freeman (2009-2013), Dick Seaman (2014), Lori Jones (2015-2016),
Tony Mau (2017-2019), Jaclyn Schaap (2020), Lisa Howard (2021-2023), Deborah Herrboldt (2024-2025)
Staff Members
Katlin Johnson, Executive Director
Joni den Hoed, Executive Assistant
The Friend Award
The Friend Award honors an individual or individuals who selflessly and unrelentingly give their time and efforts to assist the Foundation with carrying out our mission in at least one of the five areas: advocacy, education, financial assistance, resources, and support.
Recipients:
2006 – George Niimi
2008 – Jerome Freeman, MD and Jo Landis, RN
2010 – Norma Chesshir
2011 – Elaine, Duane and David Spader
2012 – Redetta Jensen and Bernice Christopherson
2013 – Pat Sundheim
2014 – Mary Freeman
2015 – Wendell & Delores Cook & Carol Nielsen
2016 – Richard Seaman
2018 – Meldon & Linda Kroeger
2019 – Lori Jones
2020 - Lisa Howard & Cherie Ortman
2021 - Noel Lais
2022 - Mary Tidwell
2023 - Paul DeJong
2024 - Steven Nord
2025 - Stephanie Myers