Made for Shade

Playing outside offers countless benefits to children—both physically, mentally and emotionally. Studies have shown that outside play has been linked to reducing stress, encouraging creativity, enhancing motor skills and promoting physical activity. Made for Shade, a nonprofit in Rapid City, believes in all these benefits but also wants to protect people from harmful UV rays.

We’re excited to share that CHS has been chosen as the next Made for Shade grant recipient. Dr. Lycia Thornburg and her partners at Rapid City Medical Center’s Skin Institute are dedicated to sheltering children from the sun’s harmful rays while promoting a love for outdoor play. Dr. Thornburg and her team of volunteers at Made for Shade have pledged $45,000 towards a shade structure for our playground on the new Rapid City Campus.

Since 2015, Made for Shade has funded 15 canopies in the Black Hills area.

Playground designs are underway, and we look forward to sharing more updates soon!

Dr. Thornburg (right) presented the grant certificate to CHS Board Vice Chair Amy Koenig (left) and VP of Development Kara Flynn (center).