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Meeting Veterans Where They Are
In South Dakota, help has to travel far. With fewer people across our state than in some U.S. cities, distance and isolation are some of the biggest challenges veterans face. That’s why CAV 605 brings support directly to rural towns, campuses, and communities — ensuring no veteran or family is left on their own.
By the Numbers
60,000+ veterans
call South Dakota home, many in rural areas far from major services.
6 rural communities
now host Operation Chow Line events, providing meals, grocery gift cards, and access to local resources.
720+ participants
reached and $17,500 in grocery gift cards distributed through Operation Chow Line.
65 outreach events
led by Compass Corps interns in one year, connecting with 80+ student veterans.
360 women veterans
reached through retreats designed specifically for their needs — with the majority attending a veteran-specific event for the first time.
1 statewide system
(VetConnect SD) under development to link hospitals, providers, and communities in a no-wrong-door network of care.
Our Programs in Action
Operation Chow Line
In a rural town, a hot meal isn’t just about food — it’s about connection. At Chow Line events, veterans and families share a table with neighbors, resource providers, and volunteers. One veteran told us, “I didn’t know anyone cared out here. Coming for the meal, I left with people I could call.”
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Expanding to six rural hubs with local food pantry partnerships
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Reducing food insecurity, a risk factor tied to veteran suicide
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Opening doors to resources by creating a welcoming, low-barrier environment
Compass Corps
Transitioning from the military to college can feel overwhelming — especially in small towns where few people understand the veteran experience. Through Compass Corps, AmeriCorps-supported social work interns walk alongside student veterans as mentors, resource navigators, and advocates.
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65 outreach events on campuses in a single year
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Peer mentorship proven to reduce isolation and increase resilience
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Students earn academic credit while directly serving their community
A student veteran shared, “I felt like a number on campus until someone from Compass Corps reached out. They understood me. Now I know where to turn.”
VetConnect SD
Our big vision is one connected system for South Dakota — so veterans don’t get lost in the shuffle of referrals, waitlists, or red tape. VetConnect SD is the backbone network we’re building: a statewide hub of providers, hospitals, and peer mentors who share information and coordinate care.
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Uses validated tools like the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale to track outcomes
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Builds cultural competency among providers so veterans feel understood
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Ensures no wrong door: whether you show up at a hospital, pantry, or campus, you’ll be connected to the help you need
Special Initiatives
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Women Veterans Retreats: More than 360 participants, creating space for wellness, connection, and visibility.
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Hospital Outreach: Linking veterans in medical settings to community-based support.
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Statewide Conferences: Gathering providers, educators, and communities to share best practices for rural veteran care.
Why It Works
CAV doesn’t just provide programs. We build communities of care — rooted in South Dakota culture, strengthened by local volunteers, and scaled through statewide coordination. Our work shows that small-town solutions can create a model for rural America.
