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 April 1, 2028 to July 31, 2028.

Abbott House

4/1/26-7/31/26
GOAL: $1.8M
To expand services to Sioux Falls by providing two therapeutic foster homes for at-risk youth.

St. Francis House

11/1/26-3/31/27
GOAL: $1.5M
To create safe and affordable housing with an addition to the existing facility.

Call to Freedom

4/1/27-7/31/27
GOAL: $1.35M
To consolidate locations into a single office to support staff and program expansion.

Sioux Falls Family YMCA

11/1/27-3/31/28
GOAL: $1.35M
To construct a multi-functional facility at Camp Leif Ericson that expands program capacity and enables year-round educational, recreational and community engagement opportunities for youth and families.

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