Shelter leadership shifts as new executive director steps in

There’s a change in leadership at the local domestic violence shelter.
Lynn PoorBear has stepped into the role of executive director, following Destiny Jorenby, who transitioned out of the position this week. The change comes as the shelter works alongside a relatively new board of directors and navigates a steady increase in client needs.
“What drew me to this role is a deep commitment to ensuring that every individual and family has access to safety, dignity, and hope during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” PoorBear said. “Domestic violence work is about more than crisis response — it is about walking alongside survivors as they rebuild stability and confidence. I want the community to understand that this shelter is not just a service provider; it is a place of protection, healing, and second chances.”
PoorBear brings experience in both nonprofit leadership and domestic violence advocacy. She most recently worked at Margo’s Place in Brookings and previously assisted the local shelter with crisis line coverage.
One of the biggest hurdles facing survivors in rural communities, she said, is access — access to safe housing, transportation, mental health services and employment. In small towns, where everyone knows everyone, privacy concerns can make it even harder to reach out.
“Rural communities come with unique challenges, but they also come with strong relationships and resilience,” PoorBear said.
“We plan to navigate transportation, privacy, and stigma concerns by strengthening partnerships with trusted local organizations and improving confidential pathways to assistance. Community education is also key. When we reduce stigma and increase awareness, we make it easier for survivors to reach out.”
Stability remains a priority for the shelter’s leadership and board — stable staffing, consistent funding and strong community partnerships. The goal, PoorBear said, is that survivors not only find safety, but feel supported long after the crisis moment passes.
“We hope to continue building strong partnerships with law enforcement, healthcare providers, schools, churches and local businesses,” she said. “Domestic violence affects every part of a community, so prevention and recovery require a coordinated effort…When local residents and organizations see the impact of this work, they become partners in sustaining it.”
Jorenby said she believes the shelter is in good hands.
“I think Lynn will do a great job as Executive Director. I met Lynn last year in April (April 2025) when she offered to assist us with coverage of our crisis line when I had a planned vacation. She was working at Margo’s Place, the domestic abuse and sexual assault program in Brookings, at that time. Since meeting her, I have been very impressed with how passionate Lynn is with making sure victims are receiving equitable and effective services.”
Both women emphasized that anyone reading who may need help — now or someday — is not alone.

Reaching out does not obligate someone to leave immediately or make life-altering decisions on the spot. The shelter’s role, they said, is to listen, provide options and help individuals think through next steps safely and confidentially.

If you or someone you love may need help

If you are in immediate danger, call or text 911 first. Domestic violence advocates cannot meet you or pick you up from your residence if you are in imminent danger — emergency services must be contacted first.
If you may need assistance but are not ready to leave, consider creating a safety plan. That can include gathering important documents, identifying a safe way to leave quickly, and ensuring access to a phone in case emergency help is needed.
If you are worried about a loved one who remains in an abusive relationship, continue letting them know you care. Even if they are not ready to leave, make sure they know who they can safely reach out to when they are ready — advocacy programs, clergy, trusted friends or family. And remind them they can call or text 911 in an emergency.
For survivors with minor children, one common misconception is that legal help is out of reach financially. East River Legal Services and Dakota Plains Legal Services offer free assistance to qualifying low-income individuals. In addition, some attorneys receive grant funding through the South Dakota Network Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault to provide no-cost or low-cost services. If someone has applied in the past and was denied due to limited funding, they may be eligible to reapply.