RAPID CITY, S.D. (March 27, 2026) — A growing movement to raise awareness for autoimmune diseases is gaining momentum across South Dakota, led by local nonprofit leader Amelie Wilcox and her organization, The Rocke Grace Foundation.

During a recent radio interview on HOT 93.1, Wilcox announced a major milestone for the cause: South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden has officially proclaimed March 27, 2026, as Autoimmune Disease Awareness Day statewide. The proclamation marks a significant step forward in bringing visibility to conditions that impact millions of Americans but often go underrecognized.

To commemorate the day locally, Rapid City will light the iconic dinosaur at Dinosaur Park in purple, the official color of autoimmune disease awareness, serving as a visual reminder of the community’s support for those affected.

Wilcox, founder and C.O.O. of The Rocke Grace Foundation, said the mission is deeply personal. The nonprofit was created in honor of her grandfather, Rocke Grace, a musician who spent the final decade of his life battling autoimmune disease.

“He spent the last ten years of his life struggling with his autoimmune symptoms, often being bedridden,” Wilcox said. “But he found his strength and comfort through music. That’s what this foundation is about, fighting what he struggled with using what he loved most.”

The Rocke Grace Foundation focuses on advocacy and awareness through music-based fundraising efforts, including concerts, instrument drives, and community events that support research and resources for autoimmune diseases.

As part of this year’s efforts, the foundation is hosting its signature event, “South Dakota Kids That Rock,” on April 11 at The Monument. The event will serve as both a youth vocal competition and a benefit concert, with all proceeds supporting the autoimmune disease community.

The competition is open to young performers ages 5 to 18 and is designed to be an uplifting, encouraging environment rather than a high-pressure contest.

“It’s not a scary competition,” Wilcox said. “It’s really just a collection of people who love to sing, who love to share music, and want to come together for a meaningful cause.”

Adding national attention to the event, Wilcox’s sister, Bijou Belle, a recent contestant on The Voice, will be joined by fellow musicians AJ Robinson and Ashley Marina as judges for the competition.

Organizers hope the combination of music, community engagement, and increased awareness, highlighted by the statewide proclamation and the purple-lit dinosaur, will continue to grow support for those living with autoimmune diseases.

Registration for “South Dakota Kids That Rock” remains open. More information, including how to sign up, can be found at therockegracefoundation.com or on the organization’s social media channels. It is also Amelie’s Birthday Today. Happy Birthday to this amazing young lady from everyone at The Rapid City Post.