Big Check, Bigger Impact: Gala Donation Helps Thousands in Need

Gala Highlights Fight Against Hunger

The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation made a big impact in the fight against hunger during its 13th Annual Prime Time Gala & Concert on June 20 at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center.

During the event, the Foundation presented a donation of $292,620 to Feeding South Dakota. The funds will help provide high-quality beef to South Dakotans facing food insecurity.

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Foundation President Ryan Eichler thanked cattle producers, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees for making the event a success.

Supporting Local Families in Need

Since partnering with Feeding South Dakota in 2013, the Foundation has contributed more than $3 million to help provide nutritious protein to families across the state. According to Feeding South Dakota, more than 113,000 South Dakotans experience food insecurity, including thousands of children.

“Support from the Prime Time Gala continues to make a tremendous difference for the families we serve,” said Feeding South Dakota CEO Lori Dykstra.

The gala also highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to agriculture education. During the evening, $15,000 in scholarships were awarded to students pursuing careers connected to agriculture and the beef industry.

Developing Future Leaders in Agriculture

Participants in the Fed Cattle Challenge were also recognized. The program helps develop future feedyard owners and managers through hands-on experience in cattle production, science, and economics.

The evening concluded with the presentation of the 2026 Jean Wilkinson Memorial Branding Iron Award to the Kingsbury County Cattlemen’s Association. The group was honored for its leadership, service to the beef industry, and community support, including coordinating 41 semi-loads of relief supplies for Nebraska cattle producers affected by devastating wildfires.

The annual gala continues to serve as one of the Foundation’s largest fundraising efforts, supporting both hunger relief and the future of agriculture in South Dakota.