RAPID CITY, S.D. — Laughter, face paint, bouncing inflatables, and the kind of joy you can only find through a child’s eyes. Kids Fair is coming back to Rapid City, and for many families, it is one of the most anticipated weekends of the year.

Hosted by Youth and Family Services, Kids Fair is one of the organization’s biggest fundraisers, bringing together families from across the Black Hills for a weekend full of fun, connection, and memories that last a lifetime.

But behind all the smiles and excitement, there is a big need right now.

Organizers say they are still searching for 400 to 500 volunteers to help make the event possible.

“We need lots of volunteers for Kids Fair,” said Jeremy LeLaCheur with Youth and Family Services. “It’s a massive event, and we’re so lucky that so many families want to come enjoy it.”

From helping run inflatable attractions to guiding families through activities, volunteers are the heartbeat of the entire event. And while it may sound like a big commitment, it is surprisingly simple.

Volunteering is just a four hour shift, and according to organizers, it is one of the most rewarding ways to spend your time.

“It’s just so fun,” LeLaCheur said. “Seeing all the kids happy, it makes it worth it.”

For many who have volunteered before, the experience is something they come back for year after year.

That is because Kids Fair is more than just an event.

It is a place where kids light up with excitement, where families slow down and enjoy time together, and where simple moments turn into lifelong memories.

“It goes by just like that,” LeLaCheur said of the volunteer experience. “You see all the kids lined up and having fun, and before you know it, your shift is over.”

The event will take place April 11 and 12 at The Monument, marking the 29th year of Kids Fair in Rapid City.

For LeLaCheur, it is personal.

“I remember going as a kid with my mom and dad,” he said. “I have so many amazing memories.”

Now, he and others are working to make sure this generation of kids gets to experience that same joy.

But it cannot happen without the community stepping up.

This is one of those moments where a few hours of your time can create something much bigger.

A laugh.
A memory.
A moment a child will never forget.

And right now, they need help to make that happen.

If you have ever thought about volunteering, this is your sign.

Because behind every smiling kid at Kids Fair, there is someone who showed up to make it possible.

For more information or to sign up, visit youthandfamilyservices.org or check out Youth and Family Services on Facebook.