RAPID CITY, SD (August 4, 2025) – The YMCA of Rapid City is proud to announce it has been selected as a recipient of a 2025 Community Grant from the Taco Bell Foundation. The funding will support education and career readiness, helping youth across the Black Hills access essential resources to achieve their goals.
“This grant allows the YMCA to teach future teen leaders valuable life skills, including building healthy work habits and preparing for the workforce as well as connect teens with professionals who can offer guidance, career advice, and real-world insights into job readiness. Teens will develop leadership skills such as responsibility, time management, communication, and teamwork—qualities that are essential in any career,” said Keiz Larson, CEO for the YMCA of Rapid City. “We’re grateful to the Taco Bell Foundation and Taco Bell Area 13 for believing in our mission and investing in the potential of our youth.”
The Taco Bell Foundation awarded a record-breaking $28 million in Community Grants this year to nearly 500 nonprofit organizations nationwide. The Community Grants program uplifts youth in the communities that matter most to Taco Bell – those of its fans and Team Members. True to the brand’s spirit, the Taco Bell Foundation supports nonprofits that think differently and take bold approaches to creating new opportunities for young people.
The YMCA of Rapid City was nominated for the grant by local Taco Bell Region Coach, Pam Hare, whose continued commitment to uplifting youth has helped expand access to education, mentorship, and career readiness programs across the community.
“We believe that empowering young people is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the future,” said Lisa Lane Cardin, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “This record investment is a testament to the power of community-driven change and the limitless potential that exists when we remove barriers and open doors.”
Through this grant, the YMCA of Rapid City will be able to ensure all teens have access to YMCA of Rapid City programs through our teen scholarships.
To learn more about the YMCA please visit www.rcymca.org. To learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation and the Community Grants program, please visit https://www.tacobellfoundation.org/who-we-support/.