SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — The South Dakota Hall of Fame awarded six recipients with the 2025 Acts of Excellence Award.

The award is given to individuals and organizations who have a “positive and transformative” impact on the community.

Silent protesters assemble outside SD Capitol building

“These honorees show us what’s possible when passion meets purpose,” Laurie Becvar, CEO of the South Dakota Hall of Fame, said in a news release. “Their stories are a reminder that acts of excellence come in many forms—and every one of them makes South Dakota stronger.”



Here are the six recipients for this year’s award:

Coteau Prairie Master Gardens, Watertown

South Dakota State University trained volunteers partner with the Watertown Boys & Girls Club to teach gardening to over 50 children in the summer.

Country Tractor Run, New Effington

The 50-mile tractor ride has raised over $500,000 for Make-A-Wish South Dakota and Montana.

Parks and Recreation, Hyde County

The Hyde County Parks and Recreation raised $1 million in two years to build a new swimming pool in Highmore through weekly fundraisers and donations.

Promising Futures Fund, Sioux Falls

The fund, founded by Steve Hildebrand, supports students in 19 high poverty schools through book programs, summer camps, college visits and more.

Rapid City Central High School Class of 1977

The alumni group built a Habitat for Humanity home, planted community gardens and built over 200 beds for children in need.

Volunteers of America, Dakotas

Volunteers of America’s Camp POSTCARD (Peace Officers Striving to Create and Reinforce Dreams) initiative with the Sioux Falls Police Department and Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office is a weeklong summer camp to build trust between law enforcement and middle school students facing adversity.

Volunteers get Camp Leif Ericson ready for summer