Friend of the Foundation

A Tradition of Generosity

Dick and Kathy Sweetman's philanthropy has had a profound impact on Sioux Falls, but you might not ever know that from talking to them. As humble as they are generous, Dick and Kathy are bright, jovial, and simply a pleasure to be around. It's no surprise, then, that their effect on our community is driven by their zest for Sioux Falls and their passion for improving the quality of life for all who call it home.

The Sweetmans have deep roots in the Sioux Falls community — they both grew up here, they raised their family here, and built their business here. "I've been lucky enough to see firsthand the power and impact that philanthropy can have," Dick said. "Since Sioux Falls has been so good to us, we feel a responsibility to give back." That sense of responsibility has seen them ingrain their legacy to the place they have always called home and in so doing, make an extraordinary contribution towards the future of our community.

"Dick has been a public servant for many years. Serving on several boards throughout the community and our own Board of Directors here at the Community Foundation, and he's been instrumental in countless projects that have shaped our city into the gem that it is today," said Andy Patterson, president of the Community Foundation.

Because of the Sweetmans' generosity, a myriad of projects have come to fruition that might not have happened without them. Their philanthropy ensures that the people of the entire region can be inspired by the cosmos at the Sweetman Planetarium or brought together under our expansive sky at Levitt Sioux Falls. They also played a key role in the beginning of Leif Ericson Day Camp, where their leadership and vision helped shape a place that continues to provide kids with magical, transformative experiences, even today. And just this year, they worked with the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum to create a pergola that has quickly transformed their gardens into one of the most beautiful wedding venues in the area.

Kathy, being the youngest of nine siblings, didn't have many opportunities growing up. Now, she's working to provide better opportunities for kids in situations like her own when she was younger. "I love to support anything to help kids who maybe don't have easy lives or access to the same opportunities as others because, growing up, I certainly didn't," Kathy said.

Dick and Kathy don't take their commitment to giving back lightly. They are always on the lookout for ideas that provide opportunities and experiences that are accessible for everyone in the community. At the Community Foundation, one of our greatest privileges is to work with individuals like the Sweetmans who have the vision and leadership that propels Sioux Falls to a brighter and stronger future.

"We can't be experts on every philanthropic opportunity that exists in Sioux Falls, but with a partner like the Foundation, we can trust that they are," Kathy said. "They help us discover and consolidate our passions and values, and then match those up with big ideas that help improve the community."

"Walking alongside Dick and Kathy on their philanthropy journey has been such an incredible honor," said Chief Philanthropy Officer Mary Kolsrud. "Their passion for our community is truly inspiring, and their generosity helps make Sioux Falls a wonderful place to call home."

The Sweetmans have been instrumental in helping to foster the tradition of generosity that makes Sioux Falls so special, and they are providing an example for future generations who want to follow in their footsteps. "Growing up, it didn't occur to me to think about where all the amenities in our community come from," Kathy said. "So, it's important for our kids and grandkids to experience what philanthropy can do."

It's not always easy to know how to start a journey of philanthropy but, here again, the Sweetmans lead by example. They show what’s possible with a deep love for the community and a steadfast commitment to giving back.

In recognition of their extraordinary generosity and visionary leadership in the Sioux Falls community, we are proud to honor Dick and Kathy Sweetman as the 2024 Friends of the Foundation. They join the ranks of some of the most inspiring leaders and philanthropists in the region.

The Sweetmans have set a shining example and helped foster the unique culture of generosity in our community. It's hard to undersell the impact that Dick and Kathy have had on their hometown — you don't need to look far to find something their work has touched.

Their humble attitude means that they might not bring up the impact of their philanthropy in conversation, but their joy, compassion, and love for our community shine through their every interaction. Friends to anyone who loves Sioux Falls, we are honored to call Dick and Kathy Sweetman Friends of the Foundation as well.