Oct. 11, 2024

A new community center that aims to be a “third space” for people recently opened downtown.

Good NAtured is at 921 E. Eighth St.

Owner Shannon Ward explains that in sociological terms, a “third place” refers to the social space where individuals spend time away from home or work.

“I wanted to help create that third space for folks,” Ward said. “And, in particular, create a space without alcohol. I don’t drink anymore, and I realized it can be hard to find community without having to be around alcohol.”

Ward said Good NAtured will offer nonalcoholic beverages, a safe social space and Tomacelli’s Pizza.

“I want this space to become a community space for skill-sharing,” Ward said. “I will have an area set up to share skills like crafting, woodworking, etc. A financial planner could come in a do a talk; we are open to lots of things.”

Ward said she plans to have live music, karaoke and events. On Saturday, Good NAtured will host a silent disco, and its grand opening will occur Oct. 19. Ward said she plans to have a Halloween costume party too.

“With the skate park just a block away, the space is also open to youth,” Ward said. “I just will ask for parents’ permission for people ages 14 to 18 to be in the space alone.”

Ward said that in the industry there is a conversation about regulating NA beverages and how they are handled for underage customers.

“The question is: Should we be encouraging a drinking experience? That’s not to say people can’t be normal drinkers, of course,” Ward said. “My rule for Good NAtured will be that you need to be over 21 to buy nonalcoholic drinks that are ‘supposed’ to be alcoholic.”

Good NAtured also will sell South Dakota-made items, Ward said.

“When I get classes going, the people who are making things in the space will get to put things on consignment here,” Ward said. “Having another platform to sell your work will allow more people to experience what it’s like to sell your work.”

Good NAtured worked with Boscaljon Design Co. to build items for the space, including four tables, a seating bench and comfy chairs.

“I originally was afraid to see how Sioux Falls would react to an NA-focused space,” Ward said. “I went to an NA training in Texas and was encouraged to go for it here and that people will want this.”