Message From the President 2025

This year has been one filled with ups and downs for our nonprofit community.

But one thing has remained constant: The steadfast commitment of our donors and community members, who continue to give generously to support the people and organizations doing meaningful work here in Sioux Falls.

Through that generosity, in partnership with our donors, the Community Foundation was able to distribute more than $38 million in grants to support local nonprofits.

That kind of giving makes a real difference.

Imagine if you lead a small nonprofit – and you can count on regular support from a donor. It doesn’t have to be a huge amount, but knowing there’s someone who cares, and cares consistently, can provide a feeling of security for those organizations.

Or maybe you are someone who feels passionately about a cause or two – and this was the year you decided to lean in and give more or added another nonprofit to your giving portfolio.

And, of course, there have been those moments this year where we celebrated grand openings, ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings for projects that will transform this community – all funded through philanthropy.

When you put it all together, what a year it’s been.

That’s why our theme for this year’s Annual Report is “Celebrating Community.”

We share the stories of the people who give so generously, the nonprofits who provide much-needed services and the places we all cherish in our community. We are celebrating what community truly means – people coming together for a common purpose.

Let’s celebrate all the ways we are united for a common purpose – and how that shows up in our acts of service, our philanthropy and our kindness and commitment to one another. Together, we continue to support our nonprofits and create a more vibrant community. 

Sincerely,
 

Andy Patterson
President and CEO