Black Hills foundations launch fund for nonprofits facing federal cuts

In response to growing strain on regional nonprofits, the Black Hills Area Community Foundation (BHACF) and the John T. Vucurevich Foundation (JTVF) have launched a joint fund, the Sustaining Black Hills Nonprofits Fund, to offer short-term bridge funding for nonprofits facing disruptions due to shifts in federal priorities. This partnership, also supported by the Bush Foundation, is designed to provide flexible support for regional nonprofits as they transition strategies, while encouraging additional community support for nonprofits.

“This initiative was shaped directly by the voices of Black Hills nonprofits,” said Jacqui Dietrich, JTVF president and CEO. “Through surveys and personal conversations, we heard that nonprofits are under intense pressure, facing rising costs, increasing demand for their services, and declining federal support. While philanthropy can’t fill every gap, our community can stand together to help sustain critical services through this transition.”

Federal changes are affecting nonprofits across sectors, from food services and childcare to affordable housing, mental health care, education services, cultural enrichment programs and more. Nonprofits have reported difficulty retaining staff and keeping essential programs operational.

“Nonprofit services are critical community infrastructure. They are on the front lines of addressing long-standing challenges and emerging issues in the Black Hills. Without nonprofit services, our community’s needs don’t go away, they go unmet,” said Chris Huber, BHACF president and CEO.

To date, BHACF and JTVF have directed bridge funding to Feeding South Dakota, to address an immediate gap in food inventory in the Black Hills; Seventh Circuit CASA, to sustain volunteer programs supporting children navigating the court system; and WAVI (Working Against Violence Inc.), to provide services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Fund will primarily support services that meet basic needs. It may also help nonprofits conduct risk assessments, strategic planning, and advocacy or communications training.

Community members are encouraged to donate directly to nonprofits, volunteer their time and skills, or champion the work of nonprofits with friends and family. If they aren’t sure where or how to donate, they can contact BHACF staff to learn about nonprofits and causes that align with their interests. Black Hills nonprofit leaders who have experienced challenges with federal changes are encouraged to share their experience with JTVF and BHACF staff through the Black Hills Nonprofit Pulse Check Survey.