Black Hills Energy has announced the recipients of its annual Funds for Firefighters grant program, which provides financial support to volunteer fire departments across its service areas. This year, the company awarded more than $135,000 to departments in Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming.
The Funds for Firefighters initiative is part of Black Hills Corporation Foundation’s annual giving campaign. Each year, the foundation selects a focus area for its donations. For 2025, it chose to support volunteer firefighters who are often among the first responders in emergencies within their communities.
Since 2001, the foundation has distributed over $8.3 million in grants to more than 500 organizations across eight states where Black Hills Energy operates. The company’s giving efforts focus on three main pillars: thriving communities, conservation and future leaders.
Grant funds this year were used by fire departments to purchase equipment such as protective gear (including coats, boots and helmets), specialized tools like high-pressure air lifting bags and hydraulic rescue tools known as jaws of life, as well as infrastructure needs including new fire hall construction and essential items like radios, chainsaws and hoses.
Volunteer firefighters play multiple roles in small towns beyond fighting fires. Many are also trained EMTs or first responders who help with medical emergencies and search and rescue operations. They also participate in public education by teaching fire safety at schools and community events.
“Safety is a community effort — and everyone has a part to play. Across the communities we serve, volunteer firefighters are often the first to respond when emergencies strike. These dedicated individuals show up day or night, balancing their service with full-time jobs and family responsibilities. They remind us that at its heart, safety is about people stepping up for one another.”
“At Black Hills Energy, we’re proud to stand with the firefighters who protect our communities.”
“This year, we’re proud to contribute to thriving communities by supporting the volunteer firefighters who serve these communities. The Funds for Firefighters grants were available to any fire department in our service territory that is at least partially made up of volunteers.”
“We’re also proud that more than 250 of our Black Hills Energy employees serve as these volunteer firefighters.”
“Safety starts with people — and the courage to serve. Our volunteer firefighters embody that spirit every day, and we’re proud to stand beside them. At Black Hills Energy, we believe that when we invest in those who protect our communities, we’re building a stronger, safer future for everyone.”
“We’re honored to give back to the volunteer firefighters in our communities. Together, we’re building safer, stronger and more resilient communities.”
The company notes that investing in local emergency services helps build resilience within its service areas.
