Community Savings Accounts Success: Philip Community Savings Accounts (CSA) are enhancing the quality of life in 72 communities across South Dakota. The endowment funds are part of the South Dakota Community Foundation but are led by a local board of directors who raise and distribute funds. The CSA concept has taken root and grown very quickly in the community of Philip. And it all started with a conversation over coffee between Beth Massa, SDCF’s West River Development and Program Director, and DeMaris Nesheim. It’s been years since Nesheim had a Philip address, but her connection to her hometown remained strong since she moved away in 1963. She followed Philip news for years and appreciated the improvements and investment residents have made to keep the community thriving. Recently, Nesheim decided to put into practice something she learned in a Philip Sunday School room years ago – everything I have is a gift from God, and it is my job to share that gift with others. As a result, Nesheim committed $100,000 to start a Community Savings Account in Philip if the community could match her donation. A board assembled and the
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DeMaris Paulson Nesheim (left) is pictured with SDCF West River Development and Program Director Beth Massa. Nesheim issued a $100,000 matching challenge to kickstart the Philip Area Community Foundation. Philip Area Community Foundation began. The board started fundraising in the community, and only a few weeks later, the goal was met. The South Dakota Community Foundation contributed $50,000 as part of a matching challenge grant. On March 5, a group of 150
SOUTH DAKOTA MUNICIPALITIES
