50 Faces of Feeding South Dakota

Ep. 23 Built by Community. A conversation with Brian Jans of Jans Corp.

In this episode, we talk with Brian Jans of Jans Corp and Site Coordinator at First United Methodist Church — two roles that reflect his deep commitment to community. Brian shares how his construction company helped build Feeding South Dakota’s facility, and how his continued involvement at First UMC supports our largest distribution site in Sioux Falls. This conversation dives into the power of local partnerships, city collaboration, and how community-led solutions are shaping the future of hunger relief in South Dakota. Follow us:Facebook - @FeedingSDInstagram - @FeedingSDLinkedIn - @FeedingSDOur website:https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Ep. 22 Community Led, Community Fed. A conversation with Feeding South Dakota CEO Lori Dykstra.

In this episode, Feeding South Dakota CEO Lori Dykstra talks about the future of hunger relief through a powerful shift in service: Community Led Distributions. While our Mobile Food Distribution Program has helped us reach communities across the state, we know long-term success means empowering local partners to lead the charge. Lori shares how Feeding South Dakota is strengthening relationships with existing programs to build sustainable, community-driven solutions — because the best way to fight hunger is together.Follow us:Facebook - @FeedingSDInstagram - @FeedingSDLinkedIn - @FeedingSDOur website:https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Ep. 21 Policy, Plates & Public Health. A conversation with Jen Folliard of Health + Nutrition First.

In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Folliard, Founder of Health + Nutrition First, to explore the intersection of public policy, nutrition, and food access. With years of experience as a dietitian and in public health policy in Washington, D.C., Jen shares insights on the issue of hunger and how we can combat it. We also dive into the creation of the South Dakota Healthy Nutrition Collaborative, a statewide effort bringing partners together to advocate for better nutrition and stronger, healthier communities.Health + Nutrition First:https://www.healthnutritionfirst.com/South Dakota Healthy Nutrition Collaborative:https://www.sdhealthynutritioncollaborative.com/Follow us:Facebook - @FeedingSDInstagram - @FeedingSDLinkedIn - @FeedingSDOur website:https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Ep. 20 Feeding Hope in the Hills. A conversation with Kim Canete of Custer Storehouse

In this episode, we sit down with Kim Canete, who leads the Custer Storehouse food pantry. Kim shares what hunger looks like in a small rural town and how the challenges of distance, access, and limited resources shape the fight against food insecurity. Through it all, the Custer Storehouse remains a vital resource— proving that even in the most remote areas, compassion and community can keep families fed.Custer Storehouse:https://www.facebook.com/custerstorehouse/Follow us:Facebook - @FeedingSDInstagram - @FeedingSDLinkedIn - @FeedingSDOur website:https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Ep. 19 Beefing Up the Fight Against Hunger. A conversation with Ryan Eichler.

In this special 50 Faces of Feeding South Dakota episode, we’re kicking off National Beef Month with Ryan Eichler, President of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation Board. Ryan shares how the strong partnership between the Foundation and Feeding South Dakota helps provide high-quality beef to families facing hunger across the state. He also gives us a preview of the Foundation’s upcoming Prime Time Gala and Concert — a major event with a major impact.South Dakota Cattlemen's Foundation:https://sdcattlemensfoundation.com/https://primetimegalatables.com/http://primetimegalaraffle.com/Follow us:Facebook - @FeedingSDInstagram - @FeedingSDLinkedIn - @FeedingSDOur website:https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Ep. 18 Why Rural Hunger Deserves a Closer Look. A Conversation with Dr. Christine Hockett

In this episode, Dr. Christine Hockett, Director of Community Research at Avera Research Institute, joins us to talk about the often-overlooked issue of rural hunger. From social determinants of health to the critical role research plays in understanding food insecurity outside urban areas, Dr. Hockett explains why data matters — and how it can lead to real change for South Dakota’s most underserved communities.Follow us:Facebook - @FeedingSDInstagram - @FeedingSDLinkedIn - @FeedingSDOur website:https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/Avera Research Institute:https://www.avera.org/research-and-clinical-trials/research-institute/

Ep. 17 Start ’Em Young. A conversation with Owen & Andrea Fischer, frequent volunteers of Feeding SD

In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Andrea & Owen Fischer, a mother-son duo who regularly volunteer their time to fight hunger. Owen shares what volunteering has taught him as a young person, from responsibility to empathy, while Andrea reflects on the joy of serving alongside her son and watching him grow through giving back. It’s a story about family, impact, and the power of showing up together.

Ep. 16 Powering Up with Purpose. A conversation with Sioux Valley Energy.

In this episode, we sit down with Chinelle and Molly from Sioux Valley Energy—a company that goes above and beyond when it comes to giving back. They share how their unique volunteering system empowers employees to serve their communities, deepen company culture, and stay connected to causes they care about—like Feeding South Dakota. Tune in to hear how energy meets impact in this inspiring conversation about corporate volunteerism done right.Volunteer page:feedingsouthdakota.org/volunteerFollow us:Facebook - @FeedingSDInstagram - @FeedingSDLinkedIn - @FeedingSDOur website:https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Ep. 15 From Highways to Hunger Relief. A conversation with the SD Department of Transportation.

In this episode, we sit down with Kari and Karla from the South Dakota Department of Transportation to explore how their team's regular volunteering at Feeding South Dakota's Pierre location has fostered deeper connections and a strong sense of community. Discover how their consistent efforts have not only supported hunger relief but also strengthened team bonds and created lasting friendships. Tune in to hear how giving back has become a meaningful part of their work culture. Volunteer page:feedingsouthdakota.org/volunteerFollow us:Facebook - @FeedingSDInstagram - @FeedingSDLinkedIn - @FeedingSDOur website:https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/

Ep. 14 Building Community Through Service. A conversation with Kathy & Gary Pillen

Volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s about coming together. In this episode, we talk with Kathy & Gary Pillen, longtime volunteers at our Mobile Food Distributions in Rapid City. They share how their time serving others turned into something more: friendships, connection, and a true sense of community. Tune in for an inspiring story about the power of giving back! Volunteer page:feedingsouthdakota.org/volunteerFollow us:Facebook - @FeedingSDInstagram - @FeedingSDLinkedIn - @FeedingSDOur website:https://www.feedingsouthdakota.org/