Ideas in Action
Beyond
Idea Grant Impact Guide
“We’re
Ginger Niemann, SDCF Senior Program Officer
Beyond Idea Grant WHAT
Beyond Idea Grant (BIG) Program, a partnership between South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF) and the Bush Foundation, supports community-based problem-solving across South Dakota. The program awards $1.2 million annually for six years to eligible nonprofits
BIG is designed to develop, test and spread community-based problem solving that makes South Dakota better for everyone It aims to inspire, equip and connect leaders working toward equitable change
SDCF seeks projects that are:
Rooted in community needs
Supported by local voices
Inclusive and thoughtful in design
SDCF welcomes applicants who are learning, growing and committed to building capacity.
Fork Real Community Café
The BIG Idea
Fork Real Community Café’s BIG Idea is to build a stronger, more connected community by using food as a tool for dignity, dialogue and empowerment. By offering a pay-what-you-can model and encouraging guests to give what they can, whether it’s money, time or kindness, they remove financial barriers and create space for meaningful conversation and support. In a time when many face food insecurity and social isolation, Fork Real brings people together, offering not just a meal, but a sense of purpose and belonging
Why It Matters
Access to nutritious food and a sense of belonging are basic needs some in the Rapid City area struggle to meet Fork Real Community Café addresses both by offering meals in a welcoming environment that brings people together from all walks of life For individuals facing food insecurity, social isolation or financial hardship, the café provides more than just a meal-- it offers dignity, connection and hope By fostering conversations and community through shared tables and volunteer opportunities, Fork Real is helping build a stronger, more inclusive Rapid City.
The BIG Impact
Fork Real Community Café has already served thousands of meals, ensuring that everyone regardless of income can enjoy a fresh, nourishing meal The café has become a hub for connection, where volunteers, customers and community members sit side-byside, fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond food, Fork Real offers job training, community events and educational workshops, empowering individuals with skills and support As awareness grows, so does its reach, strengthening Rapid City one shared meal at a time.
Lewis & Clark Behavioral Health Services
The BIG Idea
Lewis & Clark Behavioral Health launched a rural crisis response pilot program in Union County by introducing a crisis outreach coordinator This role helped connect law enforcement, families and mental health providers to improve care, reduce response time and address challenges like transportation and communication gaps The pilot’s success is now guiding similar efforts in other South Dakota counties.
Why It Matters
In rural areas like Union County, access to timely mental health crisis care is limited Long travel distances, lack of resources and coordination challenges often leave individuals without the support they need Lewis & Clark Behavioral Health Services is addressing this gap with a mobile crisis response program that brings same-day and nextday care directly to those in need. By meeting people where they are, the program reduces hospitalizations, eases the burden on law enforcement and delivers real help when it matters most
The BIG Impact
Lewis & Clark Behavioral Health Services’ mobile crisis response program is filling a critical gap in rural mental health care By offering sameday and next-day support, the program has improved outcomes for individuals in crisis, reduced unnecessary hospitalizations and strengthened coordination with local law enforcement Community partners have reported better communication, faster response times and a more compassionate approach to crisis care. With expansion already underway into neighboring counties, the program is proving to be a scalable, effective solution for rural South Dakota
South Dakota State University Extension
The BIG Idea
South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension’s BIG Idea is to improve community wellness by increasing access to locally grown, organic produce in rural South Dakota. Through the “Grow Your Own” project, they are equipping communities with tools, education and resources to grow their own food, improve nutrition and support local food systems. By partnering with schools, communities and organizations, SDSU Extension is helping residents take charge of their health starting from the ground up.
Why It Matters
In South Dakota, where rural communities face unique challenges, SDSU Extension serves as a vital bridge between research and real-world solutions By providing accessible, science-based education and resources, it empowers individuals and communities to make informed decisions that enhance agriculture, health and overall well-being Through programs in agriculture, natural resources, family wellness and youth development, SDSU Extension fosters resilience and growth across the state
The BIG Impact
From school gardens to community growing spaces, the “Grow Your Own” project is already planting seeds of change Participants are gaining hands-on skills in gardening and nutrition, while increasing access to fresh, organic produce in areas that often lack it These efforts are not only improving health outcomes but also strengthening connections between neighbors, schools and local food producers creating a ripple effect that supports long-term community well-being
Family Connections Center Inc.
The BIG Idea
Family Connections Center (FCC) in Rapid City is dedicated to empowering youth and young adults, aged 16–24, who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk Through initiatives like The Circle Drop-In Center, transitional housing and the Safe Place Youth Emergency Shelter, FCC provides immediate support and long-term solutions These programs offer not only shelter but also access to education, employment resources, mental health services and life skills training, all aimed at fostering independence and stability
Why It Matters
Youth homelessness is a pressing issue in South Dakota, with limited resources available statewide FCC addresses this gap by offering specialized services tailored to the unique needs of young individuals By providing safe spaces and comprehensive support, FCC helps prevent the long-term consequences of homelessness, such as chronic instability and involvement with the justice system Their work is crucial in breaking the cycle of homelessness and building a stronger, more resilient community
The BIG Impact
Since its inception, FCC has made significant strides in supporting at-risk youth The Safe Place Shelter, for instance, offers overnight accommodations and has successfully transitioned several individuals into more stable housing situations The Circle Drop-In Center serves as a hub for resources, providing access to basic necessities, counseling and educational opportunities Through these efforts, FCC not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term success and self-sufficiency among the youth they serve
Bridging the Opportunity Gap
Fiscally sponsored by Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
The BIG Idea
Bridging the Opportunity Gap (BOG) is a nonprofit organization based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, dedicated to fostering inclusive leadership and community development Their flagship program, Leaders of Tomorrow (LOT), is a 12–16 week initiative designed to equip individuals from diverse backgrounds with essential leadership skills, mentorship and community engagement opportunities By focusing on personal and professional growth, LOT aims to empower participants to become proactive leaders who can drive positive change within their communities
Why It Matters
As Sioux Falls continues to grow and diversify, there is a need to ensure leadership opportunities are accessible to all BOG addresses this by intentionally developing leaders from underrepresented backgrounds and creating space for new voices at the table By investing in individuals who are often overlooked, BOG is helping to build a more inclusive, equitable and forward-thinking community
The BIG Impact
Since its inception, the LOT program has graduated over 500 individuals, many of whom have taken on influential roles in various sectors, including business, education and public service The program's success has led to spreading their idea to reach many more individuals from the region This program supports initiatives aimed at developing leadership among the city's diverse populations through education, community building, storytelling and mentorship By creating a sustainable model for leadership development, BOG is ensuring the next generation of leaders is wellequipped to navigate and shape the future of Sioux Falls and the surrounding area
Mitchell Area Development Corporation
The BIG Idea
Mitchell Area Development’s BIG idea is to create a long-term, community-focused housing strategy that addresses the growing need for workforce housing in Mitchell and the surrounding areas By collaborating with local stakeholders, their goal is to identify solutions that will support sustainable population growth and improve the region’s ability to attract and retain workers
Why It Matters
Affordable and accessible housing is essential to community stability and economic development. Right now, businesses in Mitchell are struggling to recruit talent due to limited housing options By proactively addressing this issue, Mitchell Area Development is ensuring the community remains a competitive, welcoming place for families, businesses and future investment
The BIG Impact
This project will lay the groundwork for housing developments that meet current and future demand. It will also foster stronger publicprivate partnerships, support local employers and give the city the tools it needs to grow with intention Ultimately, it’s about making Mitchell a place where people want to live, work and stay
Cheyenne River Youth Project
The BIG Idea
The Cheyenne River Youth Project’s (CRYP) BIG Idea is to support longterm staff retention and community revitalization by developing affordable workforce housing in Eagle Butte Through the construction of small, comfortable homes on the previously neglected 15 Elm Street parcel, CRYP is creating a sustainable model for nonprofit-led housing that benefits both its employees and the broader neighborhood
Why It Matters
Reliable, affordable housing is a barrier to attracting and keeping staff, especially in rural and tribal communities CRYP recognized that in order to grow and serve the youth of Cheyenne River, they needed to first support the people doing the work By offering staff housing, CRYP strengthens program stability, retains homegrown talent and transforms underused land into vibrant, community-oriented space
The BIG Impact
The project has already delivered visible and lasting results: three new homes were added, a once-neglected property was reclaimed and revitalized and local businesses like Diamond D Construction gained contracts and grew their workforce CRYP is now seeing more applications for open staff roles, and several team members including former CRYP youth participants are living in these homes while serving their community This initiative is a model of how investing in infrastructure can drive economic opportunity, employee stability and neighborhood renewal
The Legacy Foundation
The BIG Idea
The Legacy Foundation’s BIG Idea is to make medical equipment accessible to all families, free of charge. Inspired by Owen Turner’s life, the Foundation created Owen’s Outfitters, a lending library that provides essential items like wheelchairs, hospital beds and feeding pumps Their goal is to remove barriers and bring care directly to those who need it, especially in underserved communities.
Why It Matters
Many families face financial or geographic barriers when trying to get the medical equipment their loved ones need. The Legacy Foundation steps in to fill that gap, helping families care for children and adults at home without worrying about cost or insurance By offering free equipment and support, they make recovery and comfort more possible for everyone.
The BIG Impact
The Legacy Foundation has already helped countless families through free equipment loans and their mobile lending unit, which brings supplies to rural communities. Their annual Legacy Trip also gives medical students hands-on service experience, shaping more compassionate future healthcare providers. Every effort honors Owen’s legacy and expands access to care across the state.
Midwest Street Medicine
The BIG Idea
Midwest Street Medicine brings healthcare directly to unsheltered and underserved individuals by meeting them where they are on the streets, in encampments and in shelters. Their team of medical professionals and volunteers provide compassionate, consistent care while building trust and advocating for longterm health solutions
Why It Matters
Access to healthcare should not depend on having a permanent address Many people experiencing homelessness go without essential medical care due to barriers, fear or past trauma. Midwest Street Medicine bridges that gap by creating a human-centered model of care that prioritizes dignity, accessibility and consistency
The BIG Impact
From treating chronic conditions and infections to helping patients navigate mental health resources and housing services, Midwest Street Medicine is transforming lives. Their presence offers not only medical support but also hope and stability, empowering individuals to take steps toward recovery, independence and a healthier future
Lost&Found GRANT
The BIG Idea
Lost&Found is a nonprofit organization dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health advocacy, particularly among young adults. Their BIG Idea is to revolutionize how colleges support student mental health through the Campus Resiliency Index and a mobile app The Index provides colleges with data-driven insights into their mental health resources, helping identify strengths and areas for improvement. Paired with the mobile app, students can easily access support, track their wellness and build personal resilience creating a more connected and supportive campus environment.
Why It Matters
Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for young people ages 10–24 Many students struggle silently with mental health, unaware of or afraid to seek help Lost&Found creates safe spaces for conversation, builds strong peer networks and works to change the culture around mental health on college campuses and in communities
The BIG Impact
With active programs across South Dakota and Minnesota, Lost&Found has trained hundreds of peer mentors, supported thousands of students and driven policy conversations that promote lasting change. Their work is helping young adults feel seen, supported and empowered to ask for help and ultimately saving lives.
South Dakota Association for the Education of Young Children
The BIG Idea
Building strong foundations starts with strong communities. That’s why the South Dakota Association for the Education of Young Children formed a statewide taskforce to help communities design and lead their own early learning systems Through hands-on support from trained Navigators, local teams will assess needs, set goals and implement tailored strategies to support children and families Using a proven framework, this taskforce will empower communities with the tools, training and resources to create lasting change for South Dakota’s youngest learners
Why It Matters
Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong success but too often, communities lack the structure, support or voice to make lasting improvements This initiative gives power back to local leaders, helping them identify what their community needs most and take action. By focusing on collaboration, equity and sustainability, the task force ensures that every child regardless of where they live has a chance to grow, learn and thrive.
The BIG Impact
From the first conversation to the final action plan, this taskforce model is all about local ownership and meaningful results. Communities will receive guidance, funding and tools to conduct needs assessments, build leadership teams and implement real solutions. As more Early Learner Communities are launched across the state, the ripple effect will be felt in stronger schools, healthier families and brighter futures for South Dakota’s youngest generation.
Southeast Technical College Foundation
The BIG Idea
The BIG Impact
Why It Matters
Southeast Technical College (SETC) Foundation’s BIG Idea is to build stronger pathways from high school to highdemand careers by connecting students with hands-on, careerfocused education Through dual credit options, career exploration programs and industry-aligned training, SETC is helping high school students gain real-world skills, earn college credit and discover career opportunities early. By bridging the gap between education and the workforce, SETC is setting students up for success and helping South Dakota meet its growing workforce needs. As workforce shortages continue to affect critical industries, institutions like SETC are essential in building a skilled labor pipeline. By offering affordable, accessible education and training programs, the college empowers students to succeed in high-need fields while also strengthening local economies and communities.
By engaging high school students early, SETC is helping more young people take confident steps toward their future. Students who participate in SETC’s dual credit and career exploration programs are graduating with a clearer sense of direction, valuable college credits and job-ready skills These efforts not only reduce the cost and time to earn a degree but also strengthen South Dakota’s workforce with motivated, wellprepared graduates ready to meet industry demands.
$3.6 M 528,000 Lives
