Why choose us for home care in Black Hills, SD?

Sarah joined Home Instead of the Black Hills in August 2015, beginning her journey as a Care Professional before advancing into the office and ultimately into her current role as C.A.R.E. Operations Director. Over the years, she has served in a variety of leadership and operational roles, giving her a comprehensive understanding of both caregiver and client needs. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Black Hills State University in 2008, where her passion for senior care first took root. Sarah began working in a nursing home in 2005 while completing her degree and has remained dedicated to serving older adults ever since. Her hands-on experience includes working as a CNA and medication aide in nursing homes and assisted living communities, including specialized dementia care settings. Committed to continually strengthening the care she helps oversee, Sarah completed the accelerated nursing program at South Dakota State University and earned her Registered Nurse licensure in January 2023. Her clinical background, paired with her operational leadership experience, allows her to guide the team with both compassion and high standards. Originally from New England, Sarah is a longtime Patriots fan and enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and children.

Cooper Karp serves as the C.A.R.E. Experience Manager at Home Instead of the Black Hills, leading recruitment and supporting Care Professionals. Since joining in October 2021 as a Care Pro, Cooper has grown within the organization and brings firsthand understanding of relationship-first care. Outside of work, he enjoys music production and caring for stray cats in his neighborhood.

Kendra Bixby is a Licensed Practical Nurse and CARE Client Manager with Home Instead of the Black Hills. With nearly 21 years of nursing experience, she brings a broad and well-rounded clinical background to her role. Her career has included work in critical access hospital patient care, long-term care, family practice, and specialty clinics, with a focus in orthopedics and urology. She was honored as Nurse of the Year at Monument Health Urology Clinic in 2021-2022. Kendra joined Home Instead in March 2025 and quickly discovered a deep passion for in-home care. She values building meaningful relationships with clients and families while supporting them in the comfort and dignity of their own homes. Outside of work, Kendra enjoys spending time with her children and being outdoors, especially boating during the warmer months.

Beth Van Vliet joined Home Instead of the Black Hills shortly after earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in May 2025. In her role, Beth conducts nursing and Quality Assurance visits, ensuring clients receive compassionate, high-quality care tailored to their needs. She values empathy, trust, and attentive listening. Outside of work, Beth enjoys spending time with her husband, taking piano lessons from her grandmother, and doting on her cat, Olive.

Nikki V. joined Home Instead of the Black Hills in July 2025 after relocating to South Dakota from Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she was born and raised. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities and brings more than 10 years of caregiving experience to her role. Nikki began her Home Instead journey as a Care Professional, quickly becoming known for her strong work ethic, positive energy, and genuine connection with clients and teammates. In October 2025, she transitioned into a full-time office role, where she continues to support both clients and Care Pros with consistency and care. Today, Nikki is often the first friendly voice you hear on the phone - and the welcoming face you'll see if you stop by the office. She is passionate about creating a supportive experience for families and helping ensure care runs smoothly behind the scenes. Outside of work, Nikki enjoys spending time with her husband and four cats. She also loves traveling, crocheting, going to concerts, sewing, and cooking.

Nicole Casey serves as the C.A.R.E. Operations Specialist for Home Instead of the Black Hills. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in Health Science with a minor in Applied Biological Science. Nicole joined Home Instead in August 2018 as a Care Professional and transitioned into the office in June 2019, serving in multiple roles. Her well-rounded experience in caregiving and operations strengthens systems and supports the team. Now residing in Kansas with her military husband, Nicole continues to support the Black Hills office remotely. She is a proud mother of four daughters and enjoys learning new things in her free time.

Spencer serves as the C.A.R.E. Growth Advisor at Home Instead of the Black Hills, helping older adults and their families navigate care decisions. Born and raised in Rapid City, he is passionate about connecting families with trusted local resources. He works closely with families, hospitals, and community partners to ensure seniors receive the right care at the right time. Outside of work, Spencer enjoys playing guitar and spending time outdoors with his dog, Hooch, and his cat, Scott.

Katrina Kayras began her caregiving journey in her hometown, where she quickly discovered her calling to serve older adults. Today, she serves as the C.A.R.E. Quality Coordinator at Home Instead of the Black Hills. She conducts Quality Assurance visits and oversees hands-on Personal Care Training, Alzheimer's education, and hospice education for Care Pros. Katrina is passionate about helping Care Pros build confidence and purpose in their work while ensuring families feel secure and supported. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, hiking the Black Hills with her children, and spending time with her family.