This month, we are pleased to recognize Codington County Treatment Court, a team dedicated to strengthening public safety while supporting individuals on a path toward long-term change. Through accountability, treatment, and skill-building, the program plays an important role in helping participants rebuild their lives and contribute positively to the community.
The mission of the Codington County Treatment Court is to enhance public safety with the goal of developing sober, productive, law-abiding citizens by holding the offender accountable while providing supervision, treatment, and life skills in a judicial setting. This mission reflects a balanced approach - combining structure, support, and responsibility to encourage lasting change.
Treatment Court began in 2014, and since then, the program has continued to grow to meet the needs of both participants and the community.
One surprising aspect of their work is learning that prison can feel easier for some people than Treatment Court, because accountability and change are harder than incarceration. They’ve also been surprised by the level of community support for the program and the lasting impact they can have - even on individuals who are not ultimately successful in TXC. These insights highlight both the challenges and the deep influence of the work being done.
They also wish the community knew that Treatment Court serves people, not labels. Participants are more than their addiction or a criminal label—they are individuals who experience pain and joy, setbacks and growth, and accomplish meaningful, life-changing successes when given support and accountability. This perspective guides how the program operates and engages with those it serves.
The work is especially rewarding because the impact reaches far beyond the participant - it touches their children, significant others, families, employers, and the wider community. They shared, “Seeing the ripple effect of positive change and knowing those long-term outcomes can reshape entire lives makes the work incredibly meaningful.”
We thank Codington County Treatment Court for their dedication and commitment to creating a safer community and supporting meaningful change.