Rapid City, SD– Dec. 15, 2020 – Black Hills Energy and its employees today announced they are giving nearly $760,000 in their annual United Way fundraising campaign to support 50 United Way agencies across Black Hills Energy’s service area. Black Hills Energy and its employees have been committed partners of the United Way since the 1940’s. More than 1,300 employees from all Black Hills Energy electric and gas subsidiaries across Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming, supported the campaign. The Black Hills Corporation Foundation, the charitable arm of Black Hills Energy, added an additional 25 percent match to supplement employee pledges.

The relationship between United Way and Black Hills Energy dates back 76 years, when United Way was created to serve the Black Hills region.  More than 400 of Black Hills Energy’s South Dakota employees, along with the company’s Foundation match, designated more than $279,000 in pledges to support four United Way campaigns in the Black Hills region, including: 

• United Way of the Black Hills
• United Way of Sturgis
• United Way of the Northern Hills
• United Way of the Southern Hills

“In this unique year when so many families are impacted by COVID-19, Black Hills Energy’s financial support of 50 United Ways is needed more than ever to address basic needs of the communities we serve.  Needs like food insecurity, shelter and mental health,” said Linn Evans, president and chief executive officer. “United Way’s strong connection with community needs and solid processes for supporting local charitable organizations make United Way a terrific partner as Black Hills Energy and its employee team live out their collective values and mission in a meaningful and impactful way. As we continue to navigate the current pandemic, it’s good to know our employees’ and company donations are providing truly valuable services to those in need.”