Campaigning for quality of life

Community Appeals

The purpose of the Community Appeals is to qualify and schedule capital fund drives directed to the business community. With roots dating back to 1953, it was established after business leaders requested a vetting process this structured process. The Community Appeals Committee ensures that each project is a solid community investment worthy of donor support. The Chamber encourages all businesses to carefully consider their requests, while recognizing that many may have limited resources and will contribute at whatever level feels appropriate. This process provides members with confidence that a Community Appeals campaign is worthy of investment.

In addition to vetting and scheduling campaigns, the Chamber actively supports scheduled nonprofits throughout their fundraising campaigns. This includes providing access to the Chamber membership list, assisting with campaign marketing, and encouraging the business community to contribute. Through this structured and collaborative approach, Community Appeals continues to serve as a trusted system for aligning worthy causes with generous support.

Community Appeals Scheduled Fund Drives

The next scheduling period is November 1, 2027 to March 31, 2028.

Forward Sioux Falls

11/1/2025 to 3/31/2026
TBD
To provide programs that improve the economy and quality of life in our region, continuing a long tradition of working collaboratively with private and public stakeholders to drive growth and innovation.

Call to Freedom

4/1/2027 to 7/31/2027
$1.35 million
To consolidate service locations into a single office, eliminating space constraints to support staff and program expansion.

Abbott House

4/1/2026 to 7/31/2026
$1.8 million
To expand services to Sioux Falls by providing two therapeutic foster homes for at-risk youth.

St. Francis House

11/1/2026 to 3/31/2027
$1.5 million
To create safe and affordable housing through an addition to an existing facility, moving people from homelessness to hope.

The Process

All requests for capital fund drives must be made by submitting an application and supporting documents to the Community Appeals Committee. The Community Appeals Committee will accept applications from May 1 through Aug. 1 each year, with appeal presentations to the full committee conducted beginning in September. The committee will make scheduling decisions no later than calendar year-end. Approved requests are scheduled for a predetermined campaign timeslot, with campaigns typically taking place 23-28 months following approval.

Please submit application inquiries to Brittany Hanson at brittanyh@siouxfalls.com.

Community Appeals Policy Manual