October 1, 2024

A Legacy of Healing: Move To Heal South Dakota and The Compass Center Announce Transformative Merger 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – In a groundbreaking move set to redefine trauma care and healing in South Dakota, Move To Heal South Dakota and The Compass Center today announced their merger. This union brings together two powerhouses in the field of trauma recovery, combining innovative healing modalities with half a century of dedicated service. 

Move To Heal South Dakota, celebrating its 5th anniversary this December, is joining forces with The Compass Center, which marks its golden jubilee in 2025. This merger represents not just a consolidation of resources, but a fusion of visions aimed at revolutionizing how South Dakota addresses sexual, relational, and family trauma. 

“This merger is a testament to our shared commitment to healing,” said Michelle Trent, Executive Director of The Compass Center. “By integrating Move To Heal’s innovative approaches with our established programs, we’re creating a comprehensive support system for trauma survivors that is unparalleled in our region.” 

The merger will introduce Move To Heal’s evidence-based Healing Arts Program, grounded in Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY), to The Compass Center’s existing services. This program, which has already touched the lives of hundreds of underserved youth, offers a unique, movement-based approach to trauma recovery. 

Sydney Bartunek, Founder of Move To Heal South Dakota, expressed enthusiasm about the merger: “Joining forces with The Compass Center allows us to expand our reach and deepen our impact. Our Community Connector program, which has the potential in reaching individuals on reservations in South Dakota, will now have the support and infrastructure to grow even further.” 

The Compass Center will continue its legacy of supporting victims and survivors through Crisis Care, Long-term Healing, and Prevention services. The integration of Move To Heal’s programs is expected to enhance these offerings, providing a more holistic approach to trauma recovery. 

Key highlights of the merger include: 

  • Expansion of evidence-based arts and movement therapies across all age groups 
  • Enhanced outreach to underserved communities, including individual on tribals lands 
  • Strengthened prevention education programs for children and youth 
  • A more comprehensive continuum of care from crisis intervention to long-term healing 

The official announcement of this remarkable merger coincides with the upcoming “5 & 50: A Legacy Reimagined” celebration, scheduled for December 2, 2024, in Sioux Falls. This event will not only commemorate the milestones of both organizations but also unveil the vision for their shared future. 

For more information about the merger and upcoming events, please contact: 

Sydney Bartunek, Chief Development and Communications Officer, at sydney@thecompasscenter.org or (605) 339-0116. 

About Move To Heal South Dakota: Founded in 2019, Move To Heal South Dakota has been at the forefront of innovative trauma recovery, utilizing arts-based movement modalities to facilitate healing. Their Healing Arts Program, based on TCTSY, has been instrumental in helping hundreds of underserved youth in the Sioux Falls metro area. 

About The Compass Center: Established in 1975, The Compass Center has been a pillar of support for victims and survivors of sexual, relational, and family trauma in South Dakota. With a comprehensive approach encompassing crisis care, long-term healing, and prevention services, The Compass Center has been instrumental in shaping trauma-informed care in the region.