FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 9, 2026

CONTACT: Kevin Larsen, Media Coordinator, 605-773-6000, Kevin.Larsen@state.sd.us

South Dakota America’s 250^th Commission Encourages America Gives Involvement

PIERRE, S.D. -- On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. One of the many ways South Dakotans can participate in the commemoration is through the initiative- “America Gives.”

“We’re calling on all South Dakotans to make our 250th anniversary a defining year of service. From our nation’s founding, Americans have always met the moment by giving back. In 2026, we can do it again — by mobilizing South Dakotans of all ages to serve their communities and each other,” said State Chair Dr. Ben Jones.

“Through meal packing, neighborhood cleanups, youth mentorship, civic engagement, and more, America Gives invites everyone to take part in a historic year of volunteerism,” added Commissioner Tyler Tordsen of Sioux Falls.

South Dakotans can currently log their volunteer hours — helping demonstrate the scale and impact of service across the country — and be entered for a chance to be one of 250 winners who choose where America250 will donate $1,000,000 they have earmarked for this effort.

From the MLK Day of Service to the 25th anniversary of 9/11, America Gives will activate communities all year long, turning service into a legacy of America’s 250th anniversary. This is how we honor our history — and build our future. Find a volunteer opportunity near you by visiting americas250th.sd.gov.

-30-

About the South Dakota State Historical Society

The South Dakota State Historical Society is a division of the Department of Education. The State Historical Society, an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution since 2013, is headquartered in Pierre. For questions of memberships, call (605) 773-3458 or visit history.sd.gov for more information. The society also has an archaeology office in Rapid City; call (605) 394-1936 for more information.