RAPID CITY, S.D. – Black Hills Energy announced Tuesday a 50,000 dollar contribution to the American Red Cross to support renovations at the organization’s chapter headquarters in Rapid City, aimed at expanding space for training, preparedness education and emergency response coordination.
The updated facility will enhance the ability of the American Red Cross to deliver hands-on training for volunteers, staff, community members and first responders across western South Dakota. The renovated space will support training in disaster preparedness, volunteer readiness and lifesaving skills such as CPR and first aid. Additionally, the headquarters serves as a central coordination point for disaster response activities, including staging relief efforts and supporting shelter operations.
“Preparedness and safety are foundational to strong communities,” said Wes Ashton, vice president of utilities for South Dakota and Wyoming at Black Hills Energy. “Our support of the American Red Cross reflects our commitment to helping ensure communities have the training, knowledge and coordination needed before emergencies happen.”
The American Red Cross operates year-round to assist residents in preparing for, responding to and recovering from emergencies such as home fires, severe weather and wildfires. These readiness efforts ensure that local volunteers are equipped to support families when disasters strike the Rapid City region.
“This investment helps strengthen the space where we prepare people to help others,” said Richard Smith, executive director for the American Red Cross serving Central and Western South Dakota. “Having functional, accessible training space supports our volunteers, staff and partners as they build the skills needed to support communities before, during and after emergencies.”
Black Hills Energy has a long history of supporting the American Red Cross in South Dakota through initiatives focused on community resilience. This latest investment continues a partnership dedicated to local response capacity and public safety.
Residents seeking preparedness resources can visit BlackHillsEnergy.com/be-prepared, while more information regarding local Red Cross efforts is available at RedCross.org/CWSD.
