Group of people chatting and smiling.

Who We Are

Every day, with every dollar, we are giving back to the lives of people we care for and the communities we call home.

Ways to Give Our Priorities

The Avera Foundation receives philanthropic support from generous benefactors, encompassing all six regions of Avera and our affiliated hospitals. These investments make a positive impact in the lives of our patients, their families and our talented caregivers — and on various initiatives at Avera.

When you donate, your contribution helps support the most urgent needs of Avera, while also furthering our healing ministry to provide the highest quality care to all, regardless of ability to pay. From vital funding for medical equipment and educational opportunities, to resources for patients and families adjusting to illness and hospitalization, you truly make a difference when you choose to give.

A History of Giving Back 

Philanthropic support has been part of Avera’s health ministry for more than 125 years since the inception of the health ministries of the Benedictine Sisters of Yankton, SD, and the Presentation Sisters of Aberdeen, SD. We carry on our founders’ legacy and century-long commitment to providing faith-based health care.

In 1982, we launched the Avera Foundation to create a way for people to engage in the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, which has become the lifesaving work of Avera. Since then, our foundation has empowered individuals to join us in bringing health and healing to those in the most need.

Historical Photo of Benedictine Sisters at Sacred Heart.

Making a Profound Impact in the Lives of Many

Each gift makes a difference in the lives of many. Donors, which include individuals, organizations and corporate partners, have a range of options to give. You may direct your gift toward your local hospital or a certain area of care.

Contact Us to Make an Impact

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our friends and supporters, we can provide vital resources that address population health needs across eastern South Dakota and southwest Minnesota, touching countless lives in meaningful ways in neighboring towns.

Our 501(c)(3) organization includes foundation & regional hospital philanthropy contacts and support from dedicated councils who assist in fundraising activities. These community members inspire Avera’s philanthropic agenda and unite their efforts in support for the mission, vision and goals of Avera.

Have questions about donations or want to learn more about your region’s specific areas of need? Complete our contact form or reach out to a team member below.

Dzenan Berberovic, MA, CFRE

Dzenan Berberovic, MA, CFRE

Chief Philanthropy Officer
605-322-8900
dzenan.berberovic@avera.org

Primary focus: Overall leadership of Avera Foundation.

Paige McMains-Short

Paige McMains-Short, CFRE

VP, Philanthropy Services
605-322-4751
paige.short@avera.org

Primary focus: Supporting Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center and the Sioux Falls region.

Kellie Yackley, MSA, CFRE

Kellie Yackley, MSA, CFRE

VP, Community Giving Officer
605-224-3502
kellie.yackley@avera.org

Primary focus: Supporting Avera St. Mary’s Hospital and the Pierre region.

Elijah Bonde

Elijah Bonde

Community Giving Manager
605-322-8832
elijah.bonde@avera.org

Primary focus: event and corporate partnerships.

Emma Chicoine

Emma Chicoine

Philanthropy Officer
605-322-8903
emma.chicoine@avera.org

Primary focus: Supporting Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center and the Sioux Falls region.

KC Herman

KC Herman, CFRE

Regional Director of Philanthropy
605-322-3481
kc.herman@avera.org

Primary focus: Supporting Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center and the Sioux Falls region.

Meredith Hyatt

Meredith Hyatt, MBA

Regional Director of Philanthropy
507-537-9145
meredith.hyatt@avera.org

Primary focus: Supporting Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center and the Marshall region.

Sheila Kuchta, CFRE

Sheila Kuchta, CFRE

Regional Director of Philanthropy
605-668-8687
sheila.kuchta@avera.org

Primary focus: Supporting Avera Sacred Heart Hospital and the Yankton region.

Molly Sutton, MA, CFRE

Molly Sutton, MA, CFRE

Regional Director of Philanthropy
605-995-5773
molly.sutton@avera.org

Primary focus: Supporting Avera Queen of Peace Hospital and the Mitchell region.

Avera St. Luke's Hosptial

For Avera St. Luke’s Hospital and the Aberdeen region, plus any other needs:

Awards & Recognition

The Avera Foundation continues to be recognized by the Association of Health Philanthropy with the High Performer distinction for the sixth consecutive year. This distinction represents the top 75th percentile in net returns from fundraising efforts.

AHP 2024 High Performer - Overall

21,038

Total benefactors

4,296

Supporters gave for the first time

3,691

Consecutive-year donors (5+ years)

$59.7 Million

Funds raised in 2025 to support patients, residents and caregivers

View Gratitude Report

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Make a Difference

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