Education & Prevention Programs

Serves those interested in learning about violence.

The Compass Center strives to decrease the incidence and prevalence of domestic violence and sexual assault in our region. Services include:

Educational speaking to schools, churches, service providers and community organizations
Training to area professionals on how to respond to individuals who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual assault
Topics include domestic violence, witnessing violence, sexual assault, date rape and safety planning

Domestic Violence Resources

National Center for Victims of Crime: 1-800-FYI-CALL
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE
National Resource Center on Domestic Violence: 1-800-537-2238
South Dakota Domestic Abuse Hotline: 1-800-430-SAFE or 1-800-787-3224 (Hearing Impaired)
South Dakota Network Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault: 1-800-670-3989
Crime Victims’ Compensation: 1-800-696-9476

Sioux Falls Domestic Violence Service Providers

Help!Line : 211
CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates): 605-339-9492
Catholic Family Services: 605-988-3775
Children’s Inn: 1-888-378-7398 or 605-338-4880
Lutheran Social Services: 605-357-0132
Southeastern Behavioral HealthCare: 605-336-0510

Abusers monitor computer use!

If you need to exit quickly click the quick escape button. The quick escape button can be found at the top of each page on this Web site.

Please remember:

If you think your computer activities are being monitored, they probably are. Abusive people are often controlling and want to know your every move.
Computer hard drives, browsers, and other software programs store history about what you have done, what documents you have used, what Web sites you have visited, what images you have seen, and other activities. It may be impossible to completely clear this stored information from your computer.
If you are afraid your Internet and/or computer usage might be monitored, please use a safer computer or call our hotline at 1-877-IN-CRISIS or 605-339-0116.
A “safer computer” is one that your abuser does not have direct access to. Locations include the public library, community center or even at a friend’s house.

if you are a parent...

Say what you feel, lovingly.
Be patient.
Listen to your child.
Set limits together and make a safety plan.
Avoid making decisions FOR your child.
Be familiar with the support available to you in the community.

if you are a victim...

Sexual Assault

Go to a safe place.
Do not shower.
Seek medical attention.
Connect with The Compass Center for emotional support and advocacy at (605) 339-0116 or 877-IN CRISIS.

Domestic Violence

Talk with someone you trust.
Create an “emergency kit” of things you would need if you leave suddenly.
Connect with The Compass Center at (605) 339-0116 or 877-IN CRISIS.
Call the police if you are in danger.

if you are a perpetrator...

Abuse is:

Calling bad names or putting someone down
Shouting and cursing
Hitting, slapping and/or pushing
Making threats of any kind
Jealousy and suspicion
Keeping someone away from family and friends
Throwing things around the house

Domestic violence is a crime. It destroys relationships and families.

If you abuse, you can choose to stop.
Call The Compass Center at (605) 339-0116 or 877-IN CRISIS.

if you are a caring friend...

Don’t be afraid to share your concern for your friend’s safety.
Acknowledge that your friend is in a difficult and perhaps scary situation.
Be supportive.
Be non-judgmental.
Encourage your friend to reach out for professional support and guidance.
Remember that you cannot “rescue” your friend.