Through grant funding received from Rotary Internation and District 5610, Rapid City Rotary and the Advocates in Action service club partnered with Rushmore Rotary and its impact club, as well as the Minneluzahan Senior Center, Rapid City Club for Boys, and Rapid City Stevens High School Culinary Arts Program, to host the Opening Hearts & Catering Community Conversations Veteran’s initiative — a community-building project centered around food, connection, and shared learning.
This first-of-its-kind collaboration brought together more than 100 seniors, veterans, youth, and families for a community meal and guided conversational experience designed to foster relationships across generations, cultures, and socio-economic backgrounds.
The inaugural event was held Monday, November 10 when guests enjoyed a culturally inspired menu highlighting both Indigenous and Western pioneer traditions, featuring Indian tacos and kuchen.
Youth participants from the Rapid City Club for Boys and Boy Scout Troop 1187 had the opportunity to learn dining etiquette over a meal shared with veteran, senior, and Rotary attendees. The Stevens High School Culinary Arts Program members benefited from a large-scale food service experience, which helped support career readiness and preparation for the South Dakota ProStart Culinary Competition.
The grant includes a second event, an afternoon tea, which will focus on supporting new mothers in the community. The next event is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, 2025 and will be held at the Journey Museum.