SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Greg and Pam Sands Foundation is donating $250,000 to The Link Community Triage Center to support those with addiction or mental illness. The foundation will give $50,000 each year for the next five years.
Greg Sands, co-founder of Sands Drywall, said his past battles with addiction inspired the gift. He was incarcerated for two years on federal charges before turning his life around. Sands said he understands the importance of a strong support system for those seeking help.
“As I reflect on my own experiences and the changes I chose to make, I learned how important it was to have a strong support system,” Sands said. “The Link provides that to thousands who walk through their doors.”
Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken said Sands is one of the strongest advocates for addiction care in the state.
“By sharing his own story, Greg empowers others to access crucial support and build a brighter future for themselves,” said TenHaken, who is also the chairman of The Link’s board of directors.
The Link Community Triage Center opened in 2021 with financial help from the city of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, Avera Health and Sanford Health. Since its opening, The Link has provided over 15,000 triages for individuals experiencing a nonviolent behavioral health crisis or needing care for substance abuse disorders. It provides immediate access to treatment and referral to support services, regardless of an individual’s ability to pay.
The center has provided 2,135 triages in 2025 so far and 3,695 in 2024. Data shows that almost 70 percent of individuals who have received services at The Link are unsheltered.
This donation from the Greg and Pam Sands Foundation is part of a history of support. Sands previously donated $50,000 to help the center open.
Sands Drywall, incorporated in 1994, is 100 percent employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan.
The Link’s mission is to empower people to seek care and provide a link to services that will help them thrive. For more information, visit https://www.linksf.org/.
