RAPID CITY – Residents across the Black Hills are being asked to help direct a six-figure investment toward regional challenges as part of a new community initiative.
The Black Hills Area Community Foundation announced the launch of its third Thriving Communities Initiative this week. The recurring program allows local citizens to select the specific focus for more than $200,000 in funding to be distributed throughout 2026 and 2027.
In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the foundation has increased both the total investment and the timeline for the program. This expansion is designed to provide more opportunities for public engagement and long-term action.
“The Thriving Communities Initiative is about more than giving back, it’s about building community,” said Chris Huber, President and CEO of BHACF. “We’re looking forward to engaging our community more deeply in their chosen issue area. This spring, each survey response is especially important because it will shape the initiative’s focus for two years.”
Rapid City and regional residents can vote on one of four primary cause areas through the end of May:
- Community Information: Supporting libraries, local journalism, and museums.
- Quality Care for Elders: Enhancing resources for the senior population.
- Arts for All: Expanding access to cultural and artistic programming.
- Childcare for Healthy Families: Increasing access to quality childcare services.
The selection process involves an anonymous three-question survey. Once a focus area is determined, the foundation will award its first round of nonprofit grants at the end of 2026.
The second year of the cycle will shift toward community connection. In 2027, the foundation plans to host gatherings for residents to discuss solutions and learn more about the chosen issue before a final round of grants is awarded at the end of that year.
The initiative is open to nonprofits and residents across the northern, central, and southern Black Hills. The public voting period remains open until May 31.
Residents can participate in the survey or learn more about the program by visiting the foundation website at www.bhacf.org/thriving-communities
