FAQ

1. What services do you offer?
   We offer educational, vocational and life skills services for people with developmental disabilities.  We also offer residential services in the form of supervised apartments, group homes and foster homes.  Our related services include nursing case management, speech therapy, nutritional services, occupational therapy, psychological services, and physical therapy.
2. Who is eligible for services?
   Black Hills Special Services does not discriminate in its programs on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, national origin or disability.   People under the age of 21 must have a placing agency, such as a school district, and people 21 and older must have a qualifying developmental disability. (hyperlink to  http://dhs.sd.gov/dd/faq.aspx   )
3. How do I apply?
   For people under 21, contact your local school district, the  SD Department of Social Services or the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) to discuss eligibility.
   People 21 or older can either contact us directly or get in touch with the Resource Coordinator  for the South Dakota Division of Developmental Disabilities.
4. What happens once application is made? 
   After the completed application is submitted, various records, screenings and assessments will be requested.  We like to arrange for people to visit us for a tour and a meeting with some of our staff so we can get an idea what services and supports are needed. 
5. What about families?
   Families, friends and other natural supports are an integral part of people’s lives, and Black Hills Special Services has policies and practices in place to help people maintain and enhance important relationships.  We encourage family involvement at whatever level is desired and appropriate for each person.   People living in our residential facilities and supervised apartments have their own private rooms, and our transportation department is available to help facilitate home visits.