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WHAT WE DO

Black Hills Badges for Hope is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to strengthening the relationship between first responders and the communities they serve. Our mission is to create meaningful, positive connections—particularly with local youth—by promoting active engagement through sports and community-based activities.

 

By sponsoring and supporting programs that encourage youth to lead active, healthy lifestyles, we aim to inspire better decision-making, build mutual respect, and foster a safer, more united community. Our work is grounded in the belief that strong relationships between young people and first responders can be a powerful force for long-term change.

Through annual fundraising events and generous community support, Black Hills Badges for Hope provides scholarships to help cover the costs of youth sports and extracurricular activities. These funds assist with registration fees, equipment, and other expenses that might otherwise prevent participation.

 

We work closely with first responders and community members to identify children in need. Once identified, local police officers are paired with these youth to help guide and support their involvement in chosen sports or programs. This mentorship not only opens doors for opportunity, but also nurtures trust, understanding, and a sense of shared purpose.

At the heart of everything we do are the values we hold dear: Integrity, Trust, and Compassion. Together, we are building a stronger future—one connection at a time.

Impact Report

What did we do in 2024

The 2024 Impact Report for Black Hills Badges for Hope highlights a year of empowering youth, supporting first responders, and strengthening community ties. Despite falling short of their fundraising goal, they raised over $67,000, funding scholarships, youth programs, and first responder support initiatives. Key events included the Fallen Officer Memorial Golf Tournament and the Night at the Races fundraiser, both fostering community spirit and remembrance. The Badges N Kids Christmas event served 224 children, deepening bonds between youth and first responders. Looking ahead, the organization plans a Capital Campaign to expand their mission and impact even further.

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WAYS WE SUPPORT
FIRST RESPONDERS

Black Hills Badges for Hope is dedicated to supporting the families and co-workers of first responders who are injured or die in the line of duty. We provide ongoing local support long after the initial outpouring fades and contribute to organizations like Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S). We also offer scholarships to help family members attend survivor workshops focused on healthy grieving and remembrance.

For more information on First Responder Support click, here.

LOCAL YOUTH

Black Hills Badges for Hope believes that building strong communities begins with supporting youth. We focus on providing scholarships to help children, especially those without financial means, access sports and activities that promote healthy, positive development. By partnering with local first responders to identify and assist youth, the organization fosters trust, integrity, and compassion, helping to create a safer, more respectful community.

 

For more information about our scholarship, click here.

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