Creating Supportive Workplaces
Education. Awareness. Resources. For Accessible Workforce Success.
Workplace Disability Network's mission is to educate and
empower businesses across western South Dakota to confidently
hire, support, and retain individuals with disabilities.
We believe access to employment opportunities creates
stronger businesses and stronger communities.
Through training, consultations, and connections,
we equip employers to create accessible environments
where everyone can thrive.
Our History
Learn more about our founding and growth.
The Workplace Disability Network of the Black Hills (WDNBH/WDN) was founded in response to a state-led initiative to close employment gaps for individuals with disabilities.
In 2013, South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard, who understood disability firsthand as the child of parents with disabilities, launched the Employment Works Initiative. Modeled after the National Governors Association’s blueprint “A Better Bottom Line: Employing People with Disabilities,” this effort emphasized the economic and social value of disability-inclusive hiring.
Governor Daugaard assembled the South Dakota Employment Works Task Force, bringing together business leaders, educators, nonprofit advocates, vocational rehabilitation professionals, and individuals with disabilities. The group focused on five strategic areas:
Engaging businesses
Strengthening employer-jobseeker connections
Removing disincentives to work
Building flexible employment systems
Expanding education and awareness
From this powerful statewide collaboration, a regional effort took root, and in 2014, the foundation was laid for the start of WDN.
Heidi Mecham
Executive Director
As the Executive Director at the Workplace Disability Network of the Black Hills, Heidi brings a strong blend of personal insight and professional expertise. With a robust background in nonprofit management, grant administration, and community engagement, she offers the leadership and vision to guide the organization into its next chapter.
Executive Board of Directors
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Trina Allen
PRESIDENT
Vice President of
Human Resources,Monument Health
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Kevin Baas
VICE PRESIDENT
Human Resources Director,
Double Tree by Hilton Rapid City
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Kim Dodd
TREASURER
Generalist,
Human Resources Dept.,Golden West Technologies
-
Ronda Lynch
EX OFFICIO
Direct Supervisor, Division of Rehabilitation Services,
SD Dept. of
Human Services
Board of Directors
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Brett Burden
BOARD MEMBER
Coordinator of Technical Services
DakotaLink
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Steve Engelbrecht
BOARD MEMBER
Agent & Owner
Engelbrecht Insurance, Inc
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Ronnie Little Bear
BOARD MEMBER
Human Resources Director
The Lodge at Deadwood
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Reese Niu
BOARD MEMBER
Workforce Planning Director
Elevate Rapid City
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Dr. Michelle Powers
BOARD MEMBER
Chief Executive Officer
Northern Hills Training Center
Our Guiding Principles
Awareness
Making the business community aware of all disabilities and that acquiring a disability can happen to anyone at any time.
Training
Offering the tools and resources for success to make a change of how people and businesses think about disabilities.
Impact
Lead a community movement of understanding disabilities in the workplace through opportunities, hiring processes, and retention.
Schedule a Free Training & Build a Stronger Workplace
At WDNBH, we understand that hiring and supporting employees with disabilities can raise questions. We’re here to provide the guidance you need every step of the way.
Our free training sessions help businesses navigate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), develop effective workplace strategies, and create an environment where employees of all abilities can thrive.
What You’ll Gain from Our Training:
A clear understanding of ADA regulations and compliance for South Dakota.
Practical strategies for hiring and retaining employees with disabilities.
Insights on reasonable accommodations and workplace accessibility.
Tools to foster a more collaborative and productive team.
Get Started Today
Strengthen your workplace—schedule your free training today and take the first step toward a more successful and supportive business.
