The Black Hills Works Foundation, established in 1982, is the philanthropic heart of Black Hills Works. Our commitment is to ensure that our organization can continue to enrich the lives of people with disabilities, both now and for generations to come. While government funding covers basic care, private support from our generous community of donors and volunteers funds the gap between simply living and truly thriving. This support empowers the people we serve to share their unique gifts and thrive as our neighbors, friends, coworkers, and respected leaders in our community.
Our Mission
Enriching the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities now and into the future, through resource development, creation of awareness, advocacy, engaging supporters, and managing assets.
What We Do
To support the immediate and long-term priorities of Black Hills Works, the Foundation focuses on several key areas:
- Developing Resources: We secure financial resources by managing all private donations, including individual gifts, estate gifts, corporate sponsorships, and grants.
- Hosting Signature Events: We bring our community together through fundraising events that celebrate our mission. Signature events like the annual Recognition Gala and Putt-N-Pub serve as vital opportunities to raise awareness and generate essential resources for our programs.
- Celebrating Achievement and Partnership: We honor the people who make our community more inclusive. Through programs like the Spotlight Awards for participants and the People’s Choice Awards for community members, we celebrate the amazing achievements of the people we support and recognize the businesses, organizations, and individuals who partner with us to make our community welcoming for people of all abilities.
- Creating Awareness & Engaging Supporters: We connect our community to our mission. Through marketing, publications, and outreach, we share the stories of the people we support and create opportunities for community members to get involved as volunteers, sponsors, and partners.
- Providing Advocacy and Guidance: We serve as advocates for the people we support. Additionally, we provide crucial guidance and connect families with trusted professionals for estate planning to ensure their loved ones with disabilities can be provided for without risking their eligibility for essential services.
- Managing Assets for the Future: We are stewards of our community’s generosity. The Foundation manages its assets responsibly to ensure the long-term financial stability of Black Hills Works, guaranteeing that support will be available for many years to come.



Your Impact: How Donations Make a Difference
When you give to the Black Hills Works Foundation, your contribution directly supports the individuals we serve. Private funding allows us to go beyond the basics, providing a rich array of services and opportunities. Your support is allocated to meet a wide range of needs:
- Meeting Fundamental Needs: You help ensure stability and security for people by funding essentials like groceries, hygiene products, medication support and co-pays, and other living expenses.
- Fostering Independence: You empower people by providing critical support that builds autonomy. This includes transportation to jobs and appointments, custom assistive technology, and adaptive equipment that enhances daily living.
- Enriching Lives Through Arts & Community: You make it possible for people to explore their talents and passions. Donations support our renowned arts programs like the Suzie Cappa Art Center and Flutter Productions, as well as wellness activities, community recreation, and participation in Special Olympics.
- Investing in the Future: Your generosity helps us plan for tomorrow. This includes investing in long-term projects like the development of new, affordable, and accessible housing to meet the evolving needs of the people we will support for years to come.
Contact Us
726 Saint Joseph Street
Rapid City, SD 57701
[email protected]
605.718.6274


































