RAPID CITY, S.D. — Sidewalks and park paths across Rapid City will be filled with color and creativity Thursday as city employees take part in the United Way of the Black Hills’ Month of Caring.
Teams of employees from several city departments are set to join the “Chalk the Walk” effort, creating messages and artwork designed to inspire, uplift and spark community connection.
“City employees have supported the United Way in many ways for many years,” said Leah Braun of the Rapid City mayor’s office. “This year, we are taking on a different task and putting our artistic and creative abilities to work by chalking up messages and designs on public areas around town that may provide some inspiration, a laugh, a favorite memory, something that may brighten the viewer’s day.”
The chalk art will be spread across popular community locations:
- Milo Barber Transportation Depot: The “Road Warriors” from Rapid Transit System.
- Memorial Park near Omaha Street: “Walking on Sunshine” from Human Resources and “Support by Design” from Public Works.
- Rapid City Public Library: “Once Upon a Sidewalk” team.
- Uptown Mall entrance: Police Department’s Community Engagement team and “Fiscal Rays of Hope” from the Finance Office.
- Fire Station 1: “Chalk n’ Awe” team.
- Memorial Park playground: “Chalk of the Town” from the Mayor’s Office.
- Roosevelt Park Swim Center and Ice Arena: “The North Kingdom” team.
Individual employees will also create chalk art at Meadowbrook Golf Course, Sioux Park and The Monument’s C entrance.
The Month of Caring runs throughout September, featuring a variety of service projects across the Black Hills, from yard work and painting to community cleanups.
For more information, visit unitedwayblackhills.org or call 605-343-5872.