May 1, 2026

This piece is sponsored by the Sioux Falls Development Foundation.

The cereal is donated in bulk — but can’t be eaten until it’s moved into smaller bags, sealed and then put into boxes where it will distributed as part of  a Feeding South Dakota donation to those experiencing hunger.

“It’s one of those things where you think, well, somebody has to do that, and today it’s us,” said Bob Mundt, president and CEO of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation.

As a six-person team, he and his colleagues recently joined more than 460 other volunteers as part of Sioux Empire United Way’s annual Day of Action, which completed 35 service projects across the region in a powerful afternoon of service and impact.

Volunteers from local businesses, organizations, and the broader community spent the afternoon supporting nonprofit partners through hands-on projects ranging from outdoor clean-up and landscaping to organizing supplies and assisting with program needs.

In total, volunteers contributed an estimated 934 hours of service, demonstrating the collective power of individuals coming together to strengthen the Sioux Empire.

“Day of Action is a reminder of what’s possible when people show up for their community,” said Rachael Alwin, director of strategic philanthropy at SEUW.

“It’s not just about the projects completed in a few hours – it’s about building connections, supporting our nonprofit partners, and creating momentum that lasts well beyond today.”

The day began with a kickoff event at the South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance, where volunteers gathered for lunch and a brief program before heading out to project sites across the area. The event highlighted the ongoing needs within the community and the important role volunteers play in addressing them.

“Each year, Day of Action showcases the incredible generosity and spirit of our community,” said Lisa Romkema, CEO of Sioux Empire United Way.

“When hundreds of people come together with a shared purpose, the impact is immediate and meaningful. We are grateful to every volunteer, partner nonprofit, and organization that made today possible.”

For the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and other organizations participating in the event, “it’s a time for everybody to get together as companies and show support for the volunteer community and nonprofit organizations,” Mundt said.

“It’s one day for us to see what they do on a daily basis and it gives a launchpad for companies to consider volunteering on a regular basis.”

His team volunteers as a group and is encouraged on an individual basis to give time to causes each person supports.

“There are so many nonprofits doing valuable work in our community that can benefit from our time as much as our donations,” Mundt said. “Chances are, your business already has a relationship with Sioux Empire United Way through its annual campaign. Participating in volunteer opportunities is another meaningful way to connect with those in need in our community.”

To learn more about Sioux Empire United Way and how to get involved, visit seuw.org.