We are pleased to introduce Nexus SD as our official name for the South Dakota Community Information Exchange (CIE)! Literally defined as a connection or junction, a nexus brings together different parties and different ideas. When viewed through the lens of technology, as is the case with the CIE, it has the added connotation of being the central and most critical hub of a complex network with a great deal of activity.  

Not only has our name changed, so has our technology vendor. Over the past summer, the Nexus SD team reviewed multiple referral systems and began working with findhelp in September 2023. Findhelp has an existing presence in South Dakota and an excellent platform we will be utilizing. There will be two parts available within the platform. One for the Seeker (individual seeking assistance) and one for the Navigator (professional assisting our seekers). Both will contain various social determinates of health screening tools, search and referral capabilities, and an extensive resource directory supported by the findhelp and Helpline Center teams. This allows us to ensure individuals needing help can have access to the same services whether they are working with one of our partners or they prefer to search for resources on their own. 

The Nexus SD team has been engaging multiple partners across the State in preparation for our pilot. Beginning in early 2024, several agencies in the Rapid City and Mitchell communities will utilize Nexus SD as our early adopters. The Nexus SD team will continue to work with them to make any necessary tweaks and then will launch to additional partners in the spring. Organizations interested in becoming Nexus SD members should reach out to the team via nexussd@helplinecenter.org or complete this form to be added to the statewide rollout plan. Nexus SD will be onboarding new organizations throughout May 2025 with plans for additional onboarding to be determined based on funding and partner needs following that period. 

General operating expenses will be covered by the South Dakota Department of Health through May 31, 2026. However, the need for participation or membership fees will be assessed annually with possible partner fees being applied/changed upon that annual review. 

We appreciate your patience, partnership, and continued support as we build what will certainly be a tremendous asset to our state’s healthcare, human and social service infrastructure.