The Black Hills Area Community Foundation announced Oct. 28 that it awarded six $20,000 Community Action Grants to nonprofits across the Black Hills, including projects in Rapid City, for a total of $120,000. The foundation said the additional five grants mark its 20th anniversary; it typically awards one grant each year.
The 211 Helpline Center will use its grant for a one-year pilot of its 211 Transportation program in Rapid City, according to the foundation. Residents can request up to six free Lyft rides each for needs such as grocery shopping, medical appointments, work and social services by calling 211 on a weekday, up to 24 hours before a trip. A 211 specialist arranges each ride and connects callers with other resources, the announcement said.
Journey On will use its grant for its Building Stronger Neighborhoods initiative in Rapid City’s Star Village and Knollwood neighborhoods, the foundation said. The project will support recreation, cleanups, gardening, community events, a neighborhood food pantry and programming at the Knollwood Clubhouse.
The foundation said the Black Hills Parks and Forests Association will use its grant to launch Roots and Trails, an outdoor education project at Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument and Black Hills National Forest sites. The project includes field kits, equipment and accessible program days, including ASL interpretation and sensory support.
The Ronald McDonald House will complete a Guest Business Center at its new Rapid City house with grant funding, according to the announcement. The center is intended to provide families a workspace with technology and internet access.
Abbott House will furnish and equip the on-site school at Abbott House West in Rapid City, which serves about 140 youth annually in residential treatment and addiction recovery programs, the foundation said. The grant will provide classroom furnishings, computers, books and other materials as the school moves to a year-round calendar.
Children’s Home Society will use its grant for a Rapid City initiative to strengthen its therapeutic day school, the foundation said. Planned work includes clearer referrals and onboarding, monthly collaboration with families and school districts, classroom therapeutic support, and transition planning for students returning to their home schools.
The foundation lists its address as 243 Founders Park Drive, Suite 102, Rapid City, SD 57701, and its phone number as 605-718-0112.
