Month: July 2025

Lost&Found’s Peer2Peer program is recognized as a Best Practice

Lost&Found’s Peer2Peer Mentorship program has been listed on the Suicide Prevention Resource Center’s Best Practices Registry. The registry is a national resource library of programs and interventions that focus on preventing suicide and have evidence to show their effectiveness.

“Inspired by student voices, brought to life by an incredible team, and uplifted by the generosity of our donors, the Peer2Peer Mentorship program is rooted in compassion and connection,” said Carrie Jorgensen, Lost&Found’s Executive Director. “This recognition is a shared achievement for the entire Lost&Found community—it demonstrates our dedication to resilience and brings us closer to the heart of our mission.”

Over the past four years, Lost&Found’s staff developed and implemented the P2P program to support college students through meaningful connections with peer mentors. To earn this national recognition, the staff compiled and submitted detailed evidence of the program’s effectiveness—including outcome data, implementation practices, and evaluation tools.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of everyone involved and the impact of peer support in promoting student mental health across South Dakota and beyond,” said Dr. Gesine Ziebarth, Lost&Found’s Research & Evaluation Manager.  “We remain committed to adapting the program to meet students’ evolving needs and account for emerging research.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see this work recognized nationally. We’re excited for the opportunity to expand the program’s reach and deepen its impact.”

 

Carly Weitzman takes on new Development Director role

Carly Weitzman - woman with long dark hair, smiling, wearing a black blouse with a red blazer

Lost&Found’s new Director of Development role has been filled by Carly Weitzman of Sioux Falls. She is responsible for all fundraising efforts, from annual giving to major gifts to fundraising events. She manages donor relations, both corporate and individual.

“Carly brings a wealth of enthusiasm and expertise that will help elevate our programs and expand our services across the entire region,” said Executive Director Carrie Jorgensen. “Her arrival marks a strategic step in strengthening our capacity to support students, families, and communities with meaningful impact.”

Weitzman worked in development roles in higher education for several years before starting at Lost&Found in June.

After growing up in Denver, Weitzman graduated from Mount Marty College (now Mount Marty University) in Yankton, S.D., with a B.S. in Human Services. During her time at MMC, she played soccer and tennis and was a student ambassador. Weitzman is passionate about fundraising and loves the relationships that are formed through the stewardship process.

“Joining the Lost&Found team has been a true blessing,” Weitzman said. “The impact of our work cannot be understated. I’m excited to work with our donors, friends, and corporate sponsors to continue supporting Lost&Found’s critical mission.”

In her spare time, Weitzman enjoys LEGO, spending time with her family, and curling up with a good book.