31 under 31 – 2024 edition
Yankton Thrive featured the area's young professionals & leaders here and on our social media channels throughout the month of March, 2024
Kaitlyn is a 7th Grade ELA Teacher at Yankton Middle School & Kyle is a Physical Therapist at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital
Why do you choose to live in Yankton?
What are your favorite recreational options in Yankton?
We love taking advantage of all the trails in the area as well as the Meridian Bridge for running, cycling, and walking.
Dalton is Production Supervisor for Astec.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
My Wife Miranda and I volunteer and play softball with the Special Olympics Unified team for Yankton, We have gotten to see them win their first 2 back to back gold medals ever. I also am a part of the Jr. Bucks Wrestling board for Yankton’s youth wrestling program along with coaching youth soccer. Two of my three sons are in sports, my oldest(Laiken) is big into soccer and my middle son(Blair) is currently a wrestler but just starting his sports journey and I foresee many more coaching/volunteering opportunities as they continue their journeys. I enjoy building our youth programs.
What are your favorite recreational options in Yankton?
My favorite recreational options in the area are playing men’s softball as well as coed softball with my wife. We are both also involved in the rec volleyball leagues in town. I enjoy taking my oldest son out golfing on our courses here in town. I also enjoy camping and spending time on the lake with my family and friends.
Molly is National Account Coordinator at House of Brands
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
I love the local businesses in our community! Each owner brings their own unique touch, which adds to the charm of our town. Supporting local establishments is something I LOVE to do. These businesses truly make Yankton stand out from other towns and bring attention to the area. What particularly stands out to me is the warm and welcoming atmosphere each establishment provides, as well as everyone's willingness to assist customers in finding what they need.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
I absolutely adore the Lewis and Clark Lake area. It has this incredible magic that seems to make time slow down, giving you the perfect opportunity to unwind and appreciate the utmost beauty of nature. My childhood is filled with countless cherished memories at the Lake and I love sharing this place with my friends and family!
Spencer is Runza Franchisee in Yankton
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
I love the people in Yankton. The community is exceptionally welcoming and supportive to so many amazing events, fundraisers, and ideas.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
I enjoy doing Runza fundraising nights at the store or donating cookies or ice cream to fun events in the community.
What are your favorite recreational options in the Yankton area?
Boating, Summit Center, and live music.
Caitlin is a Police Officer for the City of Yankton.
Why do you choose to live in Yankton?
I moved here out of college and started my career as a police officer. I met my husband and fell in love with the community. I’ve met so many wonderful people and have made lifelong friendships.
What are your favorite recreational options in the Yankton area?
I enjoy spending time on the lake and on the golf course.
Chris is Owner and Operator of CNE Construction LLC. He is also a volunteer firefighter for the City of Yankton.
What do you choose to live in Yankton and what do you love most about the Yankton community?
I chose to live in the Yankton area because of the opportunities the town has to offer. We have amazing state recreational parks, a great lake that offers both recreation and fishing, many hiking and walking trails, an amazing aquatic center, and so many different events throughout the year to keep the community involved. The City of Yankton does a great job at keeping the community clean and vibrant. We also have great Fire and Rescue, EMS, and law enforcement departments that keep our community a safe and great place to live. As the owner of CNE Construction here in Yankton, the thing I love the most about our community is the outpouring of support towards both big and small businesses.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
Being a volunteer firefighter for the City of Yankton is my favorite volunteer opportunity . I love being able to give back to the community to help save lives and property. Our department puts on many events throughout the year to also get the community involved such as the pancake feed, fire prevention week, and our fire department open house.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
My favorite recreational option in Yankton is being out on the lake spending time with family and friends, whether it’s boating or fishing. I also spend a lot of time walking/hiking the extensive number of trails with my wife, daughter, and our three dogs. We are also blessed to have two great golf courses in Yankton that we love to golf at.
Belle is a Case Manager at Lewis and Clark Behavioral Health Services IMPACT Division. She is also the dance team coach at Mount Marty University.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
What I love most about the Yankton community is the fact that I grew up here and I was able to come back after college and it felt like I never left. My family and friends live in Yankton which makes it so comforting to be welcomed back after 6 years of being away. One of the main reasons I moved back to Yankton was to be a part of the Lewis and Clark Behavioral Health Community. Being able to work for a company that supports and advocates for mental illness is very rewarding for me.
What are your favorite recreational options in the Yankton area?
My favorite recreational activity in Yankton is being out by the lake. I grew up camping, boating, and biking the trails. Being in a town with so many outdoor activities makes it easy to stay active and entertained.
Luis is a Staff Accountant at Wohlenberg Ritzman & Co.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
When it comes to the Yankton community, there are many things that can be loved. What stands out to me the most is the feeling of coming together to support local businesses, sports teams, and town members. Another feeling that I have received from the Yankton community is acceptance. I feel that no matter your background the community holds open arms and gives the same opportunities to excel in life to everyone who has the ambition. The feeling of unity and opportunity are the main reasons why I love the Yankton community.
Rachel is a Special Education teacher at Stewart Elementary & a manager at the Boat House.
She also works for the City of Yankton teaching lifeguarding courses and as a Facility Manager at the Huether Family Aquatics Center during the summer.
Why do you choose to live in Yankton?
I chose to live in Yankton after attending Mount Marty College and seeing all the community has to offer. In my senior year, I realized this would be a perfect place to start my career and grow within the community.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
What I love most about the Yankton community is the people. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming, and there's a real sense of togetherness. I also love the small-town feel of Yankton. It's a place where everyone has a sense of belonging, and there's always a helping hand when needed. I'm so grateful to be a part of this community.
Sam is a Design Engineer at TruXedo.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
I love how friendly and helpful this community is, you can always find someone willing to sit and talk with you, or help you in any instance. You don’t have to worry about having a bad experience when out in the public and enjoying the many parks and activities we have here in Yankton.
What are your favorite recreational options in the Yankton area?
My favorite recreational activity is joining in on live music events, enjoying a cold drink on the patio at Bens Brew Station, or enjoying many of the outdoor activities by the lake. There is a large community of boaters, runners, fishers, bikers, etc. that are always welcoming new members to their hobbies!
Christa is Activities Center Coordinator at the SD Human Services Center
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
What I love most about the Yankton Community is the people, as well as the entertainment and recreational opportunities
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
My favorite recreational option in Yankton is the hiking trails at the State Park.
Alec is the Diversion Coordinator at the Yankton County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Why did you choose to live in Yankton?
I moved to Yankton in the fall of 2018 to finish up playing baseball and going to school at Mount Marty University. I have been here ever since. I chose to stay in the Yankton area because of the welcoming community along with the endless opportunities for my career.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
What I love most about the Yankton community is how tight knit it is. I really enjoy how supportive the community is with everything that goes on in Yankton.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
My two favorite recreational options are playing golf and fishing.
Morgan is Marketing & Community Events Coordinator at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
One of the things that makes Yankton a unique and vibrant community is its diverse range of small businesses. From boutique shops and restaurants to specialty stores and local service providers, there is truly something for everyone here. Whether you're looking for a cozy coffee shop to relax in, a handmade gift for a loved one, or expert advice on home repairs, you can find it all within the Yankton area. With so many different businesses to explore, it's easy to support the local economy while discovering new treasures and experiences along the way!
Josh is Process Manager at Prince Manufacturing. He is also the owner of Badlands 3D Print and Design LLC.
Casey is Director of Recreational Therapy at the Human Services Center. She is also the owner of Adventure Recreational Services LLC & the President of Connections.
Josh:
On the side of my day job, I am the owner of Badlands 3D Print and Design LLC. I design and manufacture parts and pieces for things new and old. I create custom fixtures and tools to assist people with their needs!
Our favorite recreational option in the area is sailing our catamaran on the Lewis and Clark Lake. The sailing community is full of amazing people and we enjoy spending our summers sailing on the lake!
Casey:
On the side of my day job, I am the owner of Adventure Recreational Services LLC. I provide individualized recreational therapy sessions for people in the Yankton and surrounding communities who need assistance building emotional, cognitive, social, physical, spiritual and leisure skills!
I am also the president of Connections, a nonprofit social group for people with developmental disabilities in the Yankton area. I love spending time creating and facilitating social activities for the wonderful people in our community.
Abby is Lead Park Ranger for Interpretation, Education, and Outreach at Missouri National Recreational River.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
Even though it was my career that brought me to the Yankton area, I love living here. With my hometown being about two hours away in Northwest Iowa, Yankton truly feels like home. After living in 7 different states, for me, there's nothing quite like the Midwest, and Yankton epitomizes that expectation for me. The thriving community, outdoor recreational opportunities, and awesome people are going to be reasons why I want to stay living in Yankton for a long while.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
The people of the Yankton Community are phenomenal. I've had the pleasure of meeting and working with many prominent community members through my job and through participation in the Meridian Bridge Centennial Taskforce. I love every day that I get to work alongside these folks. One can truly see how much the people of Yankton love their town through the participation of events, friendly demeanor, and rallying around a common goal or activity. I look forward to becoming even more involved in this community and making connections with even more wonderful people.
John is an Accountant with Williams & Company P.C. in Yankton.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
The Lewis & Clark Recreation area bike trails and beaches have been a staple of my summers since I was a child, years before I moved to the area. It is a wonderful area to have a healthy lifestyle with your family. The people are hardworking and honest, and the community cares about its people and natural resources. It is always fun to see people you know at the beautiful Riverside Park while taking a walk or going to Riverboat Days.
The history of the area is also fascinating, and the Mead Museum is a great place to learn the stories and view the artifacts and historical buildings. There are many great non-profit organizations to support and public areas to explore in Yankton and the surrounding area.
JJ is Chief Consultant at Lakeport Enterprises LLC.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
My favorite thing about Yankton has to be the people. People are so friendly, warm, and inviting. Whether it is asking community leaders about professional development or asking neighbors to help with your kids, there is always someone who is willing to lend a hand.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
My favorite volunteer opportunity is visiting elementary classrooms to teach Junior Achievement. Yankton Schools gave me such a great education growing up, and I love helping the next generation learn about our city and the world outside of school.
McKenzie is a Chiropractor at First Chiropractic Centers.
Why do you choose to live in Yankton?
Brook is owner and beekeeper at Duke's Bees LLC
He is also a Volunteer Firefighter at the Yankton Fire Department
Why do you choose to live in Yankton?
Yankton is such a great place for me and my family to live. It has a quiet simple side to it that creates a feeling of accessibility and ease when planning our day. It’s a 12 minute drive to the lake and more often than not, there’s an activity on the weekend.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
I love the familiarity of the community. I have lived here my whole life. As I have grown up in this community, I have grown into different positions with in the community. I really enjoy having a stand at the market at the meridian every Saturday in the summer. That community has been so supportive.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
My favorite volunteer opportunity is the Yankton fire department. I have been a member since 2017. My father is on it along with my brother in-law. The whole department is like family and is responsible for such an important service in Yankton.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
The perfect recreational day would be taking my wife and biking the horse trails in the morning, kayaking by the bluffs in the hot afternoon, and getting Charlie’s pizza for supper.
Lauren is Director of Financial Aid at Mount Marty University
Why do you choose to live in Yankton?
It's home! My husband and I grew up here and after having lived elsewhere we knew once we settled we wanted to be here with our kids.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
We love to make use of all the parks, ball fields and walking trails with our kids!
Sebastian is a Licensed Sales Producer at The Jacobson Agency: Allstate Insurance
Why do you choose to live in Yankton?
I first got to Yankton in 2020 for a visit at Mount Marty University and the soccer coach back then, Carlos Saenz, showed me around the school and a little bit of Yankton. I thought the school was very nice and could be helpful for my education. Also, I liked that the town was very quiet but in the summer it is very fun as we have the lake, where people from other towns come to spend time.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
Being an international student, it is hard to be so far away from family, but when I arrived in Yankton everyone I met was very welcoming and helped me fit in right away. I created a good bond with most of my teammates from the soccer team. I have met some people outside the school and they have treated me very well. I am also very grateful for my bosses Chris and Lindsey Jacobson as they have been great with me and have helped me feel comfortable at work. I have also volunteered at a couple of local sporting events like soccer tournaments and swim meets. I believe that the Yankton community is very helpful and welcoming.
Nykki is a self-employed Cosmetologist at Zion Salon Suites.
Why do you choose to live in Yankton?
I am originally from Yankton and have always enjoyed growing up in the area. My parents live here and we have family in the surrounding areas. After leaving for beauty school for a year and coming back it has always felt the same, comfortable and welcoming. I felt Yankton was a good place for me to start and grow my business. Yankton is an encouraging community and has many other small businesses that inspire me to grow mine personally.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
I enjoy the lake area the most; I grew up camping and spending time with family and friends in the summer out there, going on the lake and riding the bike trails. I also love the opportunities Yankton offers, there are many recreational activities for all ages. I enjoy playing rec volleyball in the summer and winter months.
Brennan is a Shipping and Receiving Associate for Astec Industries in Yankton.
Bailey is a Licensed Servicing Assistant at New York Life Insurance.
Additionally, Brennan is a Volunteer Firefighter & Bailey is an Auxiliary Member at the Yankton Fire Department.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
Being involved with the Yankton Volunteer Fire Department and Auxiliary. We love being able to give back to the community through this opportunity and having a good support system within the department.
What are your favorite recreational options in the Yankton area?
We are both involved with men’s/women’s coed softball and volleyball leagues. We love spending time at the Huether Family Aquatics Center and all the different parks with our daughters.
Josh is a Senior Associate at ELO CPA’s and Advisors in Yankton.
Katie is registered nurse at Avera Medical Group Oncology and Hematology under Dr. Mary Lee Villanueva.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
We both grew up in the area and chose to return to the Yankton area because of numerous opportunities to advance both personally and professionally in a growing community. There is a true sense of community in Yankton and people have been very welcoming towards us and supportive. The Yankton area is also home to both of our families, so we are blessed to have them nearby as we settle down and start a family.
Kassie is a Coordinated Care Social Worker at Avera Medical Group Family Medicine.
Congratulations to Kassie on being named the 2023 Social Worker of the Year by the South Dakota Healthcare Social Work Association!
Why do you choose to live in Yankton?
I choose to live and stay in Yankton after college for the safe, small community feeling. Most of my family is in the area, so it is home. I met my husband after college and we both found our careers here. I am originally from Hawaii and much rather prefer the small town feel. I appreciate the safe feeling in the town thanks to our law enforcement. We now have two kids and we love being able to raise our kids in this community and plant our own roots.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
Zac is Account Manager/On-Air Talent at 5 Star Communications/Classic Hits 106.3
Why do love most about the Yankton community?
I love the different businesses and activities to do in Yankton. Whether it’s trying a family-owned restaurant, live music, or my personal favorite, Iron Maiden pinball, there’s always something to do and the people are always friendly.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
Briana is a Pharmacist at Hy-Vee.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
Yankton has always been home for me, I was born and raised here with my three siblings. My husband Dan and I hope to start a family of our own and we know Yankton has a lot to offer including the wonderful school district and many activities. After graduating from SDSU I was commuting to Sioux Falls for work. Fortunately, last summer I was offered a position with Hy-Vee pharmacy in Yankton. I’m so glad to be back serving our growing community that still has a small town feel.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
Emilee is a Paraprofessional at Stewart Elementary School. She also works part-time at the Yankton Community Library.
Why do you love most about the Yankton community?
I love how supportive Yankton is. I went through some medical problems a few years ago and I had people I didn’t know rallying around my family and me.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
My favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton is the Special Olympics. I have been coaching/volunteering since I was a junior in high school. I help with softball and basketball. They are so accepting and a fun group to be a part of.
Sydney is a Special Education Teacher at Yankton Middle School.
Nate is a UPS Package Delivery Driver.
Why do you love most about the Yankton community?
The Yankton community offers manys ways to grow professionally and personally. We have made great connections with others in the community and have loved getting the opportunity to participate in what is happening around Yankton. We both are not from Yankton, but have been welcomed into the community with open arms and have enjoyed living here for the past 3 years. Everyone is a welcoming face when you see them!
What is your favorite recreational option in Yankton?
We love how active the Yankton community is. We enjoy taking our dog to the dog park and going on walks around the parks in town and on the many trails in the area. We also enjoy trying out the local restaurants in town!
Alyssa is a Musician and has her own live music business.
She also attends Mount Marty University as a nursing major and is on the MMU volleyball team.
Why do you love most about the Yankton community?
My favorite thing about Yankton is how supportive the community is of small business owners. If it wasn’t for the constant support of the community, I would not have the ability to continue with live music
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
Yankton does not lack in the volunteer opportunities; one of my favorites being the animal shelter. They treat all of their animals with so much love and respect. I am so grateful to have been able to experience their environment.
Matt teaches 7th Grade Social Studies at Yankton Middle School.
Hannah is a Dental Hygienist for Baumann and Borowski Family Dentistry.
Why do you love most about the Yankton community?
Yankton has offered us a small town feel with big opportunities. We have grown both personally and professionally because of this community. The great people are what we love most about Yankton.
What are your favorite recreational options in Yankton?
We enjoy exploring all of the different trails that Yankton and the surrounding areas have to offer. We also enjoy attending Buck and Gazelle sporting events throughout the year.