Vision 35: Goal Met

Bringing Philanthropy to Life for Stronger South Dakota Communities

During the SDCF October 2022 Board Meeting in Pierre, the Foundation launched Vision 35, an initiative to celebrate SDCF’s 35th anniversary. A goal of $3.5 million was established to create a sustainable funding source to offer challenges for the Foundation’s Community Savings Account (CSA) partners.

Because of many generous donors, over $3.5 million has been endowed for the Vision 35 Fund. The Fund will provide CSA challenge grants, encouraging local leaders to grow endowed charitable assets.

Since the beginning of the CSA program, nearly $1.5 million in matching challenge grants have been distributed. As a result of many generous donors and these challenge dollars, 87 communities have local foundations working to improve the lives of those who call South Dakota home and over $51 million is endowed for their future.

Challenge grants are an integral part of starting and growing a new or existing CSA. The Vision 35 Fund will offer $150,000 in challenge dollars annually to South Dakota communities, large and small. At a match rate of $1 for every $4 raised by communities new to the CSA program, this endowment campaign will leverage $600,000 in community support annually.

Benefits of a Community Challenge

• Incentivize residents to give back to their hometown.

• Raise awareness and trust in SDCF and the local CSA.

• Offer flexibility in giving choices (cash, stock, land, commodities and estate gifts).

• Create excitement and understanding for endowed giving and the opportunity to create a family legacy.

• Provide fundraising and planned giving education opportunities for residents.

Vision 35 Named Sub Funds

• Avera Vision 35 Fund

• Scott & Julia Jones Vision 35 Fund

• Gail & Delores Miller Community Development Fund