Spirit of Volunteerism

Brady has been working with various teachers and staff at RCAA on projects at the school. He works with the Rotary Club on our clothing closet. He helps organize and put out clothes. The clothing is donated, and any RCAA student can come and get what they need. He also works with the RCAA food pantry, organizing and helping the families receive their food. He also helps with recycling, organizing classrooms, and various other activities throughout our school.

Chase is an outstanding young man who generously volunteered many hours to improve our camp chapel. He scraped and repainted the building, designed and built benches and a table, and crafted a frame to display the memorial plaque. Chase thoughtfully coordinated and executed the entire project, giving the chapel a much-needed facelift. His initiative, leadership, and dedication have left a lasting impact on our camp community.

Elsie has contributed over 300 hours over the last couple of years, doing everything from volunteering at a haunted house for charity, and assisting younger dancers at their dance classes, but more recently teen court. Teen court is is a peer-led diversion program for young, first-time, or low-level offenders and I am sure Elsie is an amazing addition to the process. Elsie is a quiet unassuming person with a big heart. She expects nothing in return and gladly gives her time.

Emerson has engaged in a wide variety of activities over the past two years. She has led and engaged in many projects including Monument Health Tough Enough to Wear Pink campaign, Youth Philanthropy, the YFS Harvest Festival. She has also invested her time and talents in Youth City Council projects and committees including most recently the Blanket Workgroup that will determine proper display and gifting of a Remembering the Children wool blanket. We are lucky to have Emerson in our community.

Evita has completed over 60 hours of service this semester alone, and her hours are varied and significant in impact. My favorite was some chalk art displays she did at the Minneluzahan Senior Center in our city. She has spent many volunteer hours helping the Black Hills Youth Orchestra students to learn to play music. In addition, she participated in a toy drive, and many other smaller contributions. Evita is a kind giving person who would be a great choice for any recognition.

At just 16, this volunteer has made a powerful impact at the Humane Society of the Black Hills through pet photography. Their high-quality photos capture each dog and cat’s personality, helping animals stand out online and connect with adopters. Their work has led to increased adoption interest and quicker placements. Through creativity, patience, and compassion, they are directly helping shelter pets find loving homes while inspiring others to serve.

Kamryn serves our school as Senior Class President and leads our Senior Class Committee in their school spirit events. She dedicates several hours a week for this and also serves on our Student Council in the ‘events committee’. She speaks up for students, this month attending the student school board to advocate for students at Central High School. Kamryn also serves on the National Guard Student youth leadership groups and a variety of school activities and teams.

Natalee should be awarded this honor because of her consistent dedication to serving her school community in meaningful and lasting ways. She actively sought feedback from students and staff, responding with respect and thoughtfulness, a quality that strengthens any effective council. She helped organize Central High School’s inaugural club fair. She ensured its success by personally reaching out to every club, creating promotional materials, and handling every little detail of the event.

Nikolena serves as a dedicated Counselor-in-Training, volunteering at camps, Service Unit events, and council recruitment activities. She mentors younger Girl Scouts, supports program delivery, and is always willing to step in where needed. Through the Girl Media Team, she shares her Girl Scout story with the community, inspiring others to get involved. Her leadership and enthusiasm make a meaningful impact on girls and families.

Riley has logged an impressive number of hours over the past several years. From picking up trash in nature, to many projects and hours helping people with food insecurity – Riley is willing to make a meaningful difference in her community. She’s already done over 150 hours of service since June. Her teachers say she is genuine and earnest. She’s always, respectful, positive and willing to help out. This attitude transfers to all the service activities she is involved in.

Sako does it all; from Youth City Council, to tutoring peers, to Sister City Meetings, to teaching Origami at a retirement center. Sako has also implemented her own folding crane piece project in our elementary schools where she serves as a role model and mentor for the students. Her positive impact will be felt for years to come. She also coordinates the Student Art Display project at the Airport and is also a co-chair for the Student Art Auction. She has logged over 296 hrs in 2 yrs.

Shourya is an exceptional leader and has devoted many hours to our community. He has participated in various community projects including, volunteering at Black Hills Works, Monument Health Tough Enough to Wear Pink campaign, the Student Art Auction and other Youth City Council activities. He has served on the Youth City Council for 3.5 years. Shourya has logged over 150 hours of service in the past two yrs. We are extremely proud of his efforts in strengthening our community.

What sets Zoe apart is not just her willingness to help, but her consistency in doing so. At an age when many commitments come and go, she has shown up reliably and wholeheartedly for Feeding South Dakota. Her engagement, responsibility, and positive spirit strengthen our work and serve as a powerful reminder that meaningful service has no age requirement.

Lori Rearick a realtor with Coldwell Banker has been volunteering for Meals on Wheels Western South Dakota since May 2016. Lori gets to know the seniors on her route personally and ensures their meals meet their needs. Lori always goes above and beyond; one time she broke her ankle while delivering meals. She reached out to her husband who came and helped her finish the route before taking care of herself.

Downtown Rapid City has been a valued partner of The Salvation Army for several years, providing volunteers and staff to support our events. They showed up in full force for our Angel Tree distribution, taking time from their busy schedules to bring Christmas cheer to local families in need. Their ongoing commitment, enthusiasm, and community spirit make them an exceptional partner. We are grateful for their continued partnership and community spirit.

First Interstate Bank’s 50+ volunteers and financial support have impacted over 1,100 students statewide. Their partnership plays a vital role in advancing JA’s mission, and we are deeply grateful for their commitment.

Prouty Pottery hosted a paint for a purpose event at their business that helped VOA with hand painted bowls to raise funds for their work across the Black hills. Prouty Pottery donates $15 dollars back for every bowl painted. Impacting directly the funds raised to help life saving programs like Mommy’s Closet and the Veterans Outreach Center.

We are so grateful for the multifaceted support of TruStage. Their commitment to Black Hills Works extends beyond financial sponsorship. For years, their representatives have provided invaluable leadership on our board, they have generously served as the red-carpet sponsor for our annual gala, and their team has provided hands-on help through an annual volunteer day. They’ve made a tremendous impact on our neighbors with disabilities for over 20 years!

Thank you, TruStage

Katie Christy, Head Coach of the Black Hills State Women’s Triathlon team, leads with heart and service. Always ready to help, she and her athletes volunteered at the Northern Hills Angel Tree distribution, bringing joy to local families in need. Katie models compassion and community involvement, inspiring her team to serve others and make a meaningful impact beyond competition.

Daniel and Kathryn Brusseau began volunteering at Fort Meade VA in 2020 first with their beloved dog Dillon and Archie. The Therapy dogs have a unique way of bonding with any Veteran in front of them as do their handlers. The Brusseau’s now visit with Archie and new addition Bravo at the VA clinic, Fort Meade Hospital, and the Rapid City Airport. The Pet Therapy dogs bring unconditional love to all Veterans with visits and as tail wagging greeters in the hospital entrances.

Mike and Barb Coyle deliver meals twice a week for Meals on Wheels Western South Dakota. Mike and Barb have been delivering meals since November 2012. They make sure the seniors on their route have silverware and are set to have their lunch. If they have additional needs they do their best to help with shoveling or rides to appointments. In 2025 they delivered their route an impressive 97 times!

On the daily Delmar and Michael are helping at the prize store at the Club – stocking product or selling prizes to boys with their club bucks. They also help daily in the cafeteria serving food and washing dishes. Both boys have been great helpers since they were little and they are both always so positive in doing so. We are so grateful for Delmar and Michael!

This group of incredible individuals is truly a joy for us to have join us each week. Many of them have been volunteering with us for longer than we have been here. They bring such an incredible consistency and atmosphere to the work that we do and remind us that there are so many ways to help and be a part of the community that are not always apparent.

Grace Fellowship Church volunteers demonstrated compassion in action by preparing freezer meals for foster families through the South Dakota Kids Belong WRAP program. Their service provided practical support and encouragement to families caring for children in foster care, reminding them they are not alone and that their community stands beside them.

They have been dedicated medical volunteers in the Black Hills Area for many years, consistently ensuring the health and safety of our athletes.

Jeryann has served as an ACC (Area Competition Coordinator), further demonstrating her leadership and commitment to our programs.

Both are dedicated Unified Partners in bowling, taking time to attend both area and state bowling tournaments. Jynna will be volunteering as medical support for the USA Games in June 2026.

For decades, the Rushmore Lions Club has been a cornerstone of the Black Hills Works community. Their annual pancake breakfast is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a tradition that has enabled countless individuals in our programs to thrive. The funds raised have supported everything from sensory rooms and new equipment to our Flutter Productions and essential programs. We are so grateful for their unwavering dedication and the incredible impact they’ve made for six decades and counting.

The SDSMT Football Team generously supports Girl Scouts by assisting service units and council during the Cookie Program, volunteering at Cookie University, and helping around the Girl Scout building. Their teamwork and willingness to serve provide extra hands during busy events, strengthen community partnerships, and directly support girls’ success through mentorship and hands-on assistance.

Amelie received a gubernatorial proclamation that March 27 is Autoimmune Disease Awareness Day in South Dakota, she raised funds and awareness for autoimmune diseases, and Created SD Kids that Rock to connect children to music and medicine.

Brianna has made a remarkable impact as a Girl Scout volunteer, leading her younger daughter’s troop and supporting multiple levels. New to the area, she has become an active community member while teaching at Black Hills State University, raising four kids, and courageously volunteering throughout her battle with breast cancer. Her dedication inspires girls and strengthens the community.

Colby helps SHIFT garage with auto repairs. He has repaired many client vehicles for people in need. He comes once a week on a consistent basis.

Cyrissa is a valued and dedicated member of the ABBU program and the Black Hills community. Through her generous volunteerism, she supports multiple programs across the community, helping to raise funds, strengthen partnerships, and build meaningful connections. Her creativity, leadership, and enthusiasm consistently inspire those around her. Cyrissa’s unique ideas and positive energy not only motivate fellow volunteers but also encourage and uplift the participants we serve.

Kelli has taken a tragic loss in her own life and turned it into purpose. After losing someone she loved to suicide, she stepped toward the pain instead of away from it. She’s dedicated hours to learning how to support survivors with compassion and steady presence. Assisting with LOSS calls in Spearfish, following up with survivors, and always willing to help at events. I know I can count on her. Because of Kelli, families feel less alone, and our LOSS Team is stronger.

RJ Lawrence volunteers countless hours serving the Cheyenne River community as Fire Chief and a CRLTRG board member. He responds to fires, accidents, and disasters, delivers propane to elders during extreme winter weather, and organizes rodeo fundraising events that support local families and programs. His leadership and service strengthen safety, resilience, and community spirit across the region.

Seth Malott began volunteering with Meals on Wheels Western South Dakota in February 2013. After a short break Seth returned to volunteering with a passion. Seth is always trying to recruit new volunteers to deliver meals, some have delivered meals for years. Our senior participants enjoy Seth delivering their meals with a friendly smile.

Shania is an exemplary volunteer. Her consistency and dedication make a lasting impact on everyone she serves. Always dependable, she shows up with a warm, bubbly spirit that lifts the entire room. She treats every guest and fellow volunteer with kindness and genuine care, creating a welcoming environment wherever she serves. We are incredibly grateful for her positive energy and unwavering commitment to our mission.

Bradee’s commitment as a volunteer with Project Healing Waters has profoundly benefited the veteran participants. Over the past seven years, Bradee has generously contributed his extensive experience—spanning three decades in fly-tying and fly-fishing—to enrich the program. His expertise and thoughtful guidance have provided veterans with invaluable support, fostering a spirit of camaraderie, healing, and renewed confidence among those served by the organization.

Cindy is here daily, walking dogs, cleaning kennels, and training to improve animal care.

A special thank you to Chuck for his incredible efforts in getting our new raised garden beds ready for the Blooms and Pathways Garden Tour. Chuck, your dedication and long hours spent putting the final touches on the gardens were instrumental to the event’s success. We are so grateful for your hard work and support.

Dixie has been a volunteer for South Dakota SHIINE (Senior Health Information & Insurance Education) Western Region since January of 2024. As a beneficiary counselor, Dixie has helped hundreds of seniors understand and navigate the tricky field of Medicare. Her efforts have helped overcome transportation and technology barriers while finding cost-effective services to save seniors in South Dakota countless thousands of dollars in services and helping them to recognize potential fraud.

Gary is a valued, never-fail volunteer that brings joy, meals and showers to kids, individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Gary shows up to every Showered With Hope event, providing 300+ showers. Gary serves at a Community Picnic every other Monday. He dresses as Santa Claus and goes to local non-profits to bring joy to kids. Gary runs the Counts Car Club Car Show, giving hours of time to make sure it’s the best event possible and donates proceeds back to area non-profits.

Jan has gone over and above her duties as a volunteer as she friended a client in need by driving her to Dr appointments, watching her children, and encouraging her to learn how to drive.

She also stepped up at a moments notice to take my place as Director soon after my accident which left me with double vision and a concussion which lasted 6 months. At 1 point I needed to see my Ophthalmologist and after asking several friends, Jan stepped up to drive me there!

Kathy Harn has been a cornerstone of more than 60 mentor and mentee matches at General Beadle Elementary. As a volunteer Building Coordinator with TeamMates, she ensures each match feels valued, supported, and connected. Kathy intentionally helps students build strong, lasting relationships and gain confidence, guiding them toward a smooth transition into middle school and beyond, all while leading with compassion, care, and dedication.

Lou is a dedicated volunteer at the Spearfish ReStore, helping with pickups, testing appliances, repairing cabinets, and more. His efforts keep the ReStore running smoothly, provide affordable products to the community, and help generate revenue that supports Black Hills Area Habitat for Humanity’s mission. Lou’s service makes a real difference for families and the community.

Lucas serves as Service Unit Manager for Ellsworth, assisting with recruitments, troop formations, mentoring, and placement. He partners with Rapid City Rush for game nights and tailgates, co-hosts community events like Trunk or Treat, and runs Service Unit Camp. His leadership and energy create meaningful experiences for girls and strengthen community connections.

Lynne Garcia began volunteering with Meals on Wheels Western South Dakota in August 2016. Lynne is always willing to help when we are short delivery drivers and will deliver extra days when needed, often with short notice. Lynne has volunteered over 1,000 hours for Meals on Wheels, in addition to volunteering for other organizations.

Nancy has been a volunteer with Monument Health Hospice for over 12 years. She serves as a landscaper, a direct home and nursing home respite caregiver and has also made phone calls to patient’s caregivers. In her 12 years, she has provided exceptional care to patients and families and made their last days more peaceful.

Paula is a passionate advocate for foster, adoptive, & kinship families across the Northern Hills. Drawing from her own foster care experiences, she serves families with compassion, gathering & delivering clothing, food, and furniture to meet urgent needs. Paula also actively champions the mission of South Dakota Kids Belong, building connections and inspiring others to support children in care. Her courage, wisdom, and love for vulnerable children create lasting impact throughout the community.

Since Rene retired from the National Park Service she has been invaluable to the local caving community to help us move a great number of projects forward. This has led to numerous projects coming to completion, as well as a number of great current projects continuing to work well. She is a big part of the new cave preserve coming to life that we have in Custer county.

Sheila has been a devoted volunteer with The Salvation Army for several years, consistently demonstrating exceptional commitment to our mission. She generously gives her time and energy, inspires others to serve, and approaches every task with enthusiasm. Her dedication has made a meaningful and lasting impact on our organization and the community we serve. We are deeply grateful for her continued support.

Shonda faithfully volunteers at Community Connect events, taking a key role in sorting, organizing, and hanging clothing donations. She tackles every task with energy and a positive attitude, outpacing others and helping wherever she’s needed without complaint. Thanks to her efficiency and work ethic, donations are ready quickly, spaces remain organized, and guests can shop with dignity. Shonda’s reliability, energy, and heart for service create a meaningful, lasting impact at every event.

Steve consistently has been serving at the Club for Boys for a few years now. He actively helps us when we bike the Mickelson Trail, skiing at Terry peak, and also with campouts with older kids. He is a great example for our boys of what a healthy active adult is like, is always positive and looking to help with Club activities any way he can!

Steve is an asset to the Sheriff’s Office, he retired after a long career in law enforcement working in the state of Washington, Steve came to us wanting to help our organization. Steve cold calls people who have ended up with minor warrants to first let them know they have a warrant, then secondly how they can best get the warrant cleared and get a new court date. Steve is also very active with the Johnson Siding Volunteer fire department and was a member of the US armed forces (Army).

Sue is always willing to help with homeless Veterans. Sue is contacted by many people in the community to find a place for clothing and small appliance donations that help Veterans. Sue brings warm clothing to the VA weekly. Sue helps Veterans starting over by putting together house such as cleaners and small appliances for Veterans starting over after homelessness. Sue volunteers helping Veterans, in need, at the VA Clinic and the State Veterans home and VA Black Hills Health Care.

Susan is a thoughtful and dependable volunteer who brings both consistency and heart to every task. Always willing to step in where help is needed, they approach their responsibilities with care, patience, and a genuine desire to support others. Their steady presence and positive energy make them someone the team can always count on. Their help ensures that volunteer time with us is smooth and well spent for everyone.

Theresa is an unsung hero at our Community Connect events. She tackles every task—setting up, organizing, helping guests, and tear-down—with energy, efficiency, and a positive attitude. Her bright presence lifts everyone around her, making the events enjoyable. Theresa’s dedication ensures everything runs smoothly, allowing guests to shop with dignity. Though she works quietly behind the scenes, her impact is felt by all, and we are grateful for her tireless effort, positivity, and heart.

Trish is an outstanding volunteer tutor, an innovative leader on the Board of Directors, and a creative, tireless fundraiser. Her impact on our organization has elevated our energy and our presence in the Black Hills communities!