Built by Community, Growing for the Future: BGCR Receives the 2026 Bush Prize

Behind every growing community is a story of people who care enough to keep showing up, even when things get hard. At the Boys & Girls Club of Rosebud, that belief in our young people has carried us through challenges, fueled our growth, and strengthened our commitment to the next generation. As our Executive Director, Rachel Kocak, reminds us, “anything is possible when you refuse to give up.”

 

This October, we were honored to be named a 2026 Bush Prize: South Dakota recipient, receiving a $250,000 award from the Bush Foundation in recognition of our work and the lasting impact we're making.

 

The Bush Prize recognizes organizations that are finding meaningful ways to address challenges in their communities. This investment gives BGCR additional flexibility to strengthen our organization, build on the work already happening, and continue creating opportunities for the youth we serve.

 

This recognition is about more than an award. It's a reflection of BGCR's journey, the people who have stood alongside us, and what can happen when we refuse to give up on our young people. From our staff and board to the families, donors, partners, and supporters who continue to believe in this work, so many have helped bring us to this moment. We're proud of how far we've come, grateful for everyone who has been part of the journey, and excited for what lies ahead.

 

Investing in Lakota youth means believing in all they can become. It means giving them room to grow, supporting them as they discover their strengths, and making sure they know there are people in their corner who believe in them. We’re honored to be part of that work, and we’ll keep showing up for them, every step of the way.

 

Pilámayaye (thank you) for being here, and continuing to believe in our young people!