Peer Support Program

Peer Support is an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to gain understanding and information from others who have gone through similar life experiences. Peer visitors assist participants in learning how to live as independently as possible and to utilize community resources. This program is one of the more important services offered at ILC. Peer Support services are provided through one on one meetings (either in person, over the phone,or by email ) or local group settings.

We offer various groups that meet monthly in selected areas throughout southeastern South Dakota. Peer support groups feature monthly speakers and offer activities such as attending local conferences, bowling, picnics, and bingo. Meetings and most activities are free to participants, but if there is a charge associated with the activity, it is usually at a discounted rate and participants will know in advance. The Sioux Falls Youth/Young Adult Peer Support Group is open to participants ages 16-25, but all other groups welcome participants of any age. Currently peer support groups meet in several locations in our 24 county service area. For more detailed information on a meeting being held in your area, please contact your local ILC office, or check out the Calendar of Events.

Offers the opportunity for people with disabilites to give and receive one-on-one peer support with others with similar disabilites. A person receiving peer support may meet in person, over the phone, or by email with their peer support provider. Training is provided to those interested in being a peer support visitor. If interested in giving or receiving peer support counseling, please tell your IL Specialist or contact Sarah Jo at ILC by phone at 605-362-3550 (1-800-947-3770 toll-free) or by email at i-l-c@ilcchoices.org .