Helping Kids Become Their Best Selves
We give children and teens the skills and support they need to flourish.
Donate NowOpportunities That Can Change Lives
Approximately 17 percent of kids in South Dakota live below the federal poverty level.
These kids don't have access to the same educational and social opportunities of their more privileged peers. That's why we offer character building, sports, music and summer programs that introduce kids to new, enriching experiences.
How We Empower Youth
We provide a safe environment, positive adult mentors and programs that build the character, enrich the minds and feed the spirits of children and teens. All of our youth development programs are offered at our Worship Center at 800 N. Cliff Ave.
Music Program | Wednesdays from 5-5:30 p.m.
As more and more schools are forced to cut music programs because of budget constraints, we fill the gap with our brass instrumental classes. This program fosters discipline and creativity, encourages self-confidence and helps to develop interpersonal skills and responsibility in kids and teens.
Character Building | Wednesdays from 6-7 p.m.
Our character building programs offer the opportunity for kids to develop strong communication and leadership skills, grow their minds, and explore God's Word, all while having fun and connecting with their peers.
- Sunbeams - girls in first through fifth grades
- Girl Guards - girls in sixth through 12th grades
- Adventure Corps - boys in first through fifth grades
- Boy Scouts - boys in sixth through 12th grades
Junior Soldiers | Sundays from 10:45 a.m. - noon
The aim of the Junior Soldier program is to ensure that children involved in The Salvation Army ages 7-14 have personally received Jesus Christ as their Savior and are discipled in biblical truths, life applications and Salvation Army principles and practices. Junior Soldiers are the youngest members of The Salvation Army. Learn more.
Corps Cadets | Tuesdays, 6-7 p.m.
Youth ages 13-18 who are enrolled as Junior or Senior Soldiers are invited to participate in this training program and discipleship course focusing on spiritual growth, leadership development, growing their knowledge of Salvation Army history and evangelism training.
Summer Youth Basketball
SAY Basketball Camp is offered the second week of July and provides children with athletic opportunities they might not otherwise have, as well as a safe place to have fun and connect with peers. Players bene?t from coaching, learn teamwork skills, and often later go on to participate on a team at their school. The program is free, and each player receives a t-shirt and basketball for participating.
Summer Junior Golf
Junior Golf is offered the first Monday of every week during the summer. This free program includes transportation to and from camp, lunch, and a golf lesson at Elmwood Golf Course.
Summer Camp
Kids and teens in firth through 12th grade are offered the opportunity to enroll in overnight camps each summer at Gene Eppley Camp in Bellevue, Nebraska, including themed weeks like Music Camp and Outdoor Camp. Kids experience nature, connect with others, build their character and learn leadership skills.
