“We hear people talk about inclusion and acceptance, but there wasn’t a place for people to experience it,” explained Kathy Luke, executive director of Yakkity Yak Coffee Shack. “We decided we were going to change that.”   

So in mid-August 2020, the shack opened to caffeinate the Sioux Falls area. 

“Yakkity Yak Coffee Shack is a nonprofit coffee shop run by people with intellectual and developmental differences,” said Luke. 

Luke explains that Yakkity Yak aims to inspire other businesses to be more inclusive and hire those of all abilities. 

“We provide opportunities to people that typically get overlooked as a valuable employee,” she added. 

With a back patio that overlooks a duck pond, there’s room for everyone’s taste. 

“Our coffee shop is a place for everyone to feel welcome and appreciated,” said Luke. 

So in mid-August 2020, the shack opened to caffeinate the Sioux Falls area. 


“It’s a fun and relaxed atmosphere with space for people to play games, do puzzles, study, hold meetings or just hang out.”


“Yakkity Yak Coffee Shack is a nonprofit coffee shop run by people with intellectual and developmental differences,” said Luke. 

Luke explains that Yakkity Yak aims to inspire other businesses to be more inclusive and hire those of all abilities. 

“We provide opportunities to people that typically get overlooked as a valuable employee,” she added. 

With a back patio that overlooks a duck pond, there’s room for everyone’s taste. 

“Our coffee shop is a place for everyone to feel welcome and appreciated,” said Luke. 

Luke chatted with the 605 team, sharing her favorite Sioux Falls frequents. 

Nothing Like Vinyl 

Vinyl Social Club is a great hangout. When I go out, I love to visit places that offer things to do. Plenty of fun activities for everyone to play.

Gutter Done 

I love spending time with my family so we spend quite a bit of time at bowling alleys. Everyone can participate, and you don’t have to be good to have fun. Sioux Falls has four great bowling alleys. 

Fun at Fernson

If I’m in the mood to go hang out downtown, Fernson [Brewing Company] is definitely my first choice. The food, beer, and atmosphere is always fun and inviting. 

On Par 

Great Shots is another fun place I like to go. It doesn’t matter what skill level you are, [golfing is] a great way to get out, relax and enjoy yourself.


5 Random Facts 

+ I absolutely love our South Dakota sunsets. Most summer evenings, I sit outside just to watch the sunset. 

+ Summer is my favorite time of year. I live on a lake, so I spend my free time on the water with our kids, family, and friends. . 

+ The Fourth of July is my favorite holiday. My father was in the Air Force and my parents taught us love and respect for our country and those who sacrifice so much. The freedom we have was never free.  

+ I’m married with four children, one daughter and three sons. Our daughter is married, and we have two grandchildren. One granddaughter and one grandson. We also have a dog named Murphy.  

+ I have worked with my husband as a business partner for over 30 years.  


Park it at the Falls 

I was born and raised in Sioux Falls, so I love [Falls Park] and how much the city has done to create such a beautiful space for our city’s namesake. The falls are breathtaking any time of the year. 

Stamp the Competition 

I also enjoy hockey. [Sioux Falls] Stampede games are always a fun and affordable family-friendly activity. 

PREMIER Pastime 

I appreciate the concerts and events that are offered at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center. There is something for everyone. 


Follow Them

Facebook: /yakkityyakcoffeeshack
Instagram: @yakkityyakcoffeeshack

For more information, visit yakkityyakcoffee.com.

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