May 31, 2023

Giving Back recognizes businesses and organizations that are helping our communities. Here’s a look at who gave back for May. 

Black Hills Federal Credit Union

Black Hills Federal Credit Union supports its staff-led Community Action Team program. During April, BHFCU staff gave a mix of monetary donations and supplies totaling over $10,000 in value to 11 animal rescues across South Dakota, including Almost Home Canine Rescue in Sioux Falls. The annual Raising for Rescues Pet Supply Drive focuses on supporting organizations helping animals. The effort raised $5,500 in monetary donations and collected 991 items valued at just under $4,800.

First Bank & Trust

First Bank & Trust has financially supported the transition of the Multi-Cultural Center to LSS with a gift of $25,000 in addition to its annual sponsorship of the Festival of Cultures on June 10.

First Premier Bank/Premier Bankcard

First Premier Bank and Premier Bankcard have contributed a total of $50,000 this year to LSS, including $20,000 to support the transition of the Multi-Cultural Center to LSS and $15,000 as the presenting sponsor of the upcoming Festival of Cultures.

Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce has awarded Sioux Empire Livestock Show Exhibitor Scholarships to five students pursuing post-secondary education. The $7,500 in scholarships are given to students who are enrolled in a two- or four-year program for the next academic year, with plans to study in an agriculture-related field. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must have participated in the chamber’s Sioux Empire Livestock Show as an exhibitor of either cattle, market lamb, market goat or market swine.

Bill and Carolyn Hinks/Furniture Mart USA

Bill and Carolyn Hinks were named the South Dakota State University Foundation’s 2023 Philanthropic Family of the Year. The couple and their business, Furniture Mart USA, have contributed nearly $2.5 million to SDSU. Bill and Carolyn Hinks’ giving is focused around what Carolyn describes as Bill’s two early passions: music and athletics. The couple’s support for the Pride of the Dakotas Marching Band includes scholarships dedicated to upperclassmen. They were also a lead donor to send the band to the 2022 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, ensuring that no student would miss out on the chance due to financial constraints. Their business, Furniture Mart USA, has also made a $1 million gift for the renovation of Frost Arena to First Bank & Trust Arena.

Schulte Subaru

Schulte Subaru has donated two 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premiums to the Caring for the Kids Charity Raffle to benefit Children’s Home Society of South Dakota. Only 800 tickets at $100 each will be sold for the chance to win a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premium valued at $28,455. Drawings for both cars will be held at the Caring for the Kids Banquet on Aug. 6. Tickets may be purchased online at caringforthekids.com.

Xcel Energy

Xcel Energy employees spent a day volunteering at the newly opened Veterans Community Project site to recognize the nonprofit organization’s important work to assist military veterans experiencing homelessness.