Your Support Makes a Difference

OUR MISSION

Develop communities of care for veteran and military families in South Dakota.

OUR WORK

We specialize in empowering South Dakota communities to better serve veteran and military families through collaboration, education, and tailored solutions. By listening to the needs of military-connected individuals, piloting innovative programs, and fostering continuous improvement, we bring together local leaders and organizations to create lasting positive change. Our unique approach ensures that veterans and their families receive the support they need to thrive, while communities gain the tools to make a meaningful impact.

Check out some of our events below:

OCL Spring 2024 Tour

Thanks to the support of the Bob Woodruff Foundation, CAV hosted THREE OCL events, with the additional support of local business
sponsors and community volunteers. The events were held in Vermillion, Sioux Falls, and Sisseton. We provided 243 meals and distributed $3,500 in grocery gift cards!
(April-May 2024)
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3rd Annual Stand Up for Women Veterans Retreat

The third Stand Up for Women Veterans Retreat was held at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls. It offered a unique opportunity for women veterans to reignite their inner sparkle and forge meaningful connections.
(March 2024)
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CAV Becomes Chamber Member

CAV is now a proud member of the Greater Sioux Falls Area Chamber of
Commerce. Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at the South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance.
(March 2024)
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CAV hosts Yellow Ribbon Tree

CAV and the Vermillion Starbucks on Cherry Street partnered with Blue Star Families to host a Yellow Ribbon Tree to honor service members and their families.
(December 2023)
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CAV Host PACT Act Benefits Drive

CAV hosts a PACT Act Benefits/VA Healthcare Drive with the Regional Benefits Office, Sioux Falls VA Healthcare System, SD Department of Veterans Affairs, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the American Legion/Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliaries. 80 Veterans served!
(August 2023)
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CDC Foundation Visits South Dakota

Successful visit from our mentors at the CDC Foundation. It's also fun to make people smile with food in their mouths. VSPE (Veteran Suicide Prevention Evaluation) project.
(August 2023)
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CAV at the Sioux Falls Air Show

CAV hangs out with the Veteran Service Organizations and Auxiliaries on Heroes Row at the Sioux Falls Air Show.
(July 2023)
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CAV Heads to Atlanta, Georgia

Executive Director Baker attends the (VSPE) Veteran Suicide Prevention Evaluation project reverse site visit with Dr. Ziebach of Lost&Found.
(June 2023)
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CAV Gets and Office!

CAV moves into its first office space at 1700 West Russell Street in Sioux Falls, SD.
(April 2023)
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2nd Annual Stand Up for Women Veterans Retreat

Event designed to support well-being and resiliency. Attendance: 42 Women Veterans, 13 Vendors, 4 Children in Childcare.
(March 2023)
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CAV Thanks Veterans for Their Service

CAV delivers 500 care packages to local Veteran Service Organizations during the holidays.
(November 2022)
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Stand Up for Women Veterans Retreat

Empowering military-connected women.Attendance: 51 Women Veterans, 15 Vendor Booths, 5 Children in Daycare.
(March 2022)
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KELOLAND Living Interview

Three generations of Veterans.
(March 2022)
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Operation Chow Line Tour

CAV and its partners visited four rural South Dakota communities to raise awareness of food insecurity among Veterans and military personnel. The attendance was approximately 500.
(May-June 2021)
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Goofing around with First Responders

CAV celebrates military children at the SDNG Halloween Party.
(October 2021)
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Health Connect Fair

CAV hosts its first vendor booth at the Health Connect Fair.
(September 2020)
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ND/SD CVEB Convening

CAV hosts a listening session between community leaders and ND Cares.
(February 2020)
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VA Certificate of Appreciation

CAV receives a Certificate of Appreciation from the VA at the CAV Awards Ceremony and Social.
(January 2020)
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Bridging the Gap Festival

CAV partners with Operation Engage America.
(January 2019)
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