Groundbreaking officially gets Abbott House project under way

Rain may have driven indoors the program for Thursday’s groundbreaking at Abbott House, but it didn’t dampen the spirits of the speakers and other community members who gathered to sing the praises of the institution and those who helped make the impending addition a reality.

“Today is a great day for Abbott House and a great day for South Dakota children and families,” said Eric Klooz, executive director of Abbott House. “We are very blessed.”

More than 40 people gathered at the facility to celebrate the groundbreaking for a $1.7 million, 8,400-square-foot addition that will house 14 single bedrooms, a wellness area, psychiatrist offices and classroom space.

It will also contain a sensory room. Often to be used to treat autism, Abbott House Development Director Allen Lepke said the room will be used to help “escalate and deescalate certain behaviors” through the use of specific sensory equipment and activities.

The Abbott House is a private charity that provides residential treatment services to girls between the age of 9 and 17 who have experienced abuse or trauma. Much of the money that will pay for the addition comes from a $3.5 million grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.

Walter Panzirer, one of five trustees for the trust and a grandson of the Helmsleys, was on hand to help break ground for the addition and received thanks from each of the event’s speakers.

“This is truly a unique organization in South Dakota and a unique organization in the United States,” Panzirer said. “Very few organizations do what the Abbott House does on a daily basis and do it with excellence.”

During his remarks, state Rep. Noel Hamiel, R-Mitchell, recognized the late Grace Abbott — child advocate and namesake for the Abbott House — and Mrs. Mabel Ronald, the Abbott House founder.

“I’m sure they’re looking at this moment with a lot of pride and satisfaction,” Hamiel said.

Other speakers included Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Brian Loken, state Sen. Mike Vehle, R-Mitchell, and Jon Schmitz, of the Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Representatives from South Dakota’s congressional delegation also spoke.

The sense of celebration was palpable as dignitaries, employees and residents emerged from the gymnasium to find the sun shining on the ground that will one day house the addition.

“Abbott House has always been a big part of Mitchell and now we’re going to be 8,000 square feet greater,” Lou Sebert, mayor of Mitchell, said during his comments that preceded the groundbreaking. “That’s substantial.”

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