Behind every milestone at Black Hills Works are the extraordinary individuals who have dedicated decades of their lives to our mission. These staff members, who have been with us for 20+ years, embody the heart and soul of our organization through their unwavering commitment to the people we support. Their stories reflect not just careers, but callings—filled with moments of challenge, triumph, growth, and profound connection. As we share these journeys, we hope they inspire each of us to see the lasting impact we can make through dedication to our shared purpose. These are the voices of experience that shape our culture and remind us why the work we do matters so deeply.
Kelly Delker – Billing Specialist
Twenty-three years ago, a family member suggested Kelly apply at Black Hills Works when she moved to Rapid City after college. “And I’ve loved every minute of it,” she says of her time here since 2001.
Driven by Compassionate Curiosity
Kelly’s first role was supporting custodial crews at Ellsworth Air Force Base. There, she says, “I saw firsthand the difference that involved, supportive DSPs [direct support professionals] were making in participants’ overall quality of life.” Her curiosity about how participants were best supported in their homes and in the rest of their lives grew. Kelly decided she wanted to be more directly involved in their lives and goal planning and became a DSP at St. Cloud apartments. “Residential jobs can be tough but are also really rewarding,” Kelly shares.
Her desire to keep learning led her next to internal case management roles. She was keenly motivated by helping participants develop meaningful support plans and goals. She was a case manager for many years, including at Edwards D, community supported living, and LaCrosse Apartments. She also trained new case managers.
When the state implemented external, conflict-free case managers, Kelly played a role in the transition. “There were some challenges during this time,” she admits, “but my experience and supportive colleagues helped me adapt.”
Pivotal Growth
Kelly has witnessed a lot of growth in her career at Black Hills Works. She shares, “Person-centered thinking was a pivotal change for our agency. It opened up people’s lives. It wasn’t just about what participants needed, but also about their wants and dreams and desires.” The shift transformed how Black Hills Works approached support, and she found true joy in helping participants reach the goals they set for themselves.
Kelly enthusiastically observes, “Once participants accomplish something, the sky’s the limit. They learn, ‘Oh, if I can do that, I can also do that.’ Yeah, you can. Nobody’s stopping you. You can learn. You can grow. You might be scared, but that’s the risk-taking part.”
Participants weren’t the only ones growing, either. Person-centered thinking changed staff and family perceptions as well.
Kelly recalls encouraging anxious parents when their adult children made the move to Black Hills Works. She told them, “They’re going to have a whole different life that you’ve probably never seen before. They’ll have a different light to shine in.” Kelly is still joyful about the goals she helped participants realize.
A More Inclusive Community
Another impactful change Kelly has seen in the last two decades is a community that is more accepting of individuals with disabilities. “Over time, the stigma has really diminished. The people in our community have grown to understand and support what we do.”
She believes increased visibility through social media, community events, and public awareness campaigns have helped change attitudes. “We’re on billboards, we’re everywhere, and we’re proud to announce all the things we’ve accomplished.”
Still Growing
In 2021, Kelly was asked to consider a role as a billing specialist. “Despite no accounting experience, I said yes. I said, ‘If you’re willing to teach me, I’m willing to learn.’” Her curiosity and adaptability have remained constant for over two decades.
Just as participants work toward growth and goals, Kelly says, “It’s really good for staff to keep learning through their years. It’s been fun to see staff grow too.”
Lessons Learned
When asked what advice Kelly would give to new staff, she says, “Treat others how you want to be treated. Be respectful. Be genuine, and don’t change the way you interact with someone with a disability – they can tell if you’re being fake.”
Despite all she has contributed, Kelly is humble about what she’s gained in return. “I’ve learned more from our participants than I could learn in a lifetime,” she says with a smile. “My biggest accomplishment is helping participants directly with their goals and things that they’ve never thought they could do.”
Through every role and transition, Kelly has remained focused on what matters most: helping people with disabilities discover their potential and live lives full of purpose, possibility, and hope.
“That’s my passion,” Kelly says simply. “I want to see people thrive and learn and grow.”
