Celebrating Women’s History Month

In recognition of Women's History Month, GROW South Dakota is commemorating and celebrating the vital role of women in American history.  One of the leaders we celebrate is JoAnn Schaefers, Faulkton, and previously from Polo.  JoAnn Schaefers has served on the Board of Directors for GROW South Dakota for 47 years. 

Schaefers served on the Northeast South Dakota Community Action Program (NESDCAP also known as GROW South Dakota) Board of Directors for 10 years, including a number of terms on the State Community Action Board. Following her tenure on the NESDCAP Board she began serving on the Northeast South Dakota Economic Corporation (NESDEC also known as GROW South Dakota) since 1984. “JoAnn’s dedication to rural communities and small business owners has been a tremendous asset to our organization,” said CEO, Lori Finnesand. “We are thankful for her continued service on our Board.”  It is estimated that Schaefers has traveled over 100,000 miles to attend board meetings and has volunteered thousands of hours.

During Schaefers’ 37 years on the NESDEC Board she has overseen 2,103 closed business loans totaling nearly $76.3 million, which created or saved 12,698 jobs in South Dakota towns. GROW South Dakota serves northeast South Dakota through housing, community, and economic development.