Thanks to Open Heart Church and dozens of giving community members, three Rapid City schools received a very generous donation. In December, congregation members from Open Heart Church worked hard – selling items, rallying donors, and more to raise $13,000. The money will be split between three schools: Robbinsdale Elementary, South Middle and South Park Elementary.

The sizable donation will make a difference for the approximately 1,500 students who attend the schools. Robbinsdale plans to create calming corners, South Park will use the money to support South Park disadvantaged students and families, and South Middle’s portion will be used to kick-start their peer-to-peer mentoring program.

Last month, Open Heart Pastor Holly Sortland told the Rapid City Journal that while Open Heart is not a wealthy church, they felt compelled to give back in this way. “We struggle financially,” she said. “We think God placed this church strategically between three schools. We decided to ask people from the church and community to do this outrageous goal.”

Open Heart also hosts CHAOS, an after-school program for South Middle School students. Every Wednesday, the after-school program offers kids a safe place to spend time with their peers and engage in other positive activities.

RCAS is grateful for the donation and the investment of time that Open Heart has made to support students. Thank you!