Kadoka Area Foundation Offered Additional Challenge Match from Casey and Kathy Peterson

Kadoka Area Foundation has received an additional $40,000 matching challenge from Casey and Kathy Peterson in memory of Casey’s late parents, Stanley and Frances Peterson, the Craven Family of early pioneers in Jackson County and in honor of his sister Robin Peterson Lund, PhD,RN,CNS,APRN. Additionally, they recognize the great support from the community for his CPA firm, Casey Peterson, LTD.

This gift builds upon an earlier challenge offered by Rusty Olney and South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF). Every $1 given to KAF is matched with $1.90. 

Together, the Petersons, Olney and SDCF are challenging the community to raise $100,000 within the next three years. If successful, nearly $300,000 will be held in the Kadoka Area Foundation’s endowment—providing a permanent source of support for scholarships, nonprofits and charitable projects in the area. 

“Because of the encouragement and leadership of Rusty, Kathy and I are proud to honor my parents, ancestors and sister by adding to this effort,” said Casey Peterson, SDCF Board Member. “They were lifelong supporters of education and community. We encourage others who care about Kadoka to consider a gift that will benefit the area for generations.”

Honoring a Legacy of Service

Stanley Dean Peterson was born Dec. 9, 1925, in Chadron, Neb., and raised on a ranch south of Martin. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran of World War II, he earned degrees from Chadron State College and the University of Northern Colorado. He taught and coached at Pine Ridge and Kadoka high schools, served on the Kadoka City Council and school board, and in 1998–99 returned to the field as the oldest active football coach in South Dakota—coaching alongside his son, Casey, at Rapid City Christian.

Stanley was a lifelong teacher who loved curious minds, especially those of his six grandchildren. A poet, philosopher and storyteller, he often led lively discussions at Kadoka’s coffee group, asking thoughtful questions like, “What’s the difference between freedom and liberty?” He believed in living life with memories in mind and choosing what is God-made over man-made.

Frances Y. Peterson (Craven) was born July 30, 1924, on the historic Craven Open Buckle Ranch near Wanblee. Her family were early pioneers in Jackson County. A valedictorian of Wanblee High School, she earned her teaching certificate from Pacific University in Oregon and taught in western South Dakota and North Dakota. She also served as a Head Start director and was a devoted member of the Kadoka Presbyterian Church.

Together, Stanley, Frances and Robin dedicated their lives to service, education, healthcare and community—values reflected in the Kadoka Area Foundation’s mission.

To memorialize the impact of Stanley and Frances, the gift from Casey & Kathy Peterson will support the Craven-Peterson Family Foundation Scholarship to assist students from Kadoka High School planning to attend a vocational/technical or 4-year college or university.

A Gift that Grows

Kadoka Area Foundation is a permanent endowment managed by SDCF. Donations are invested, and a percentage of the fund is distributed annually under the guidance of a local advisory council. As the fund grows, so does its impact.

To make your donation: 

• Check: Make payable to “South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF)” and include "Kadoka Area Foundation (KAF)" in memo.
  • Mail to: SDCF, PO Box 296, Pierre, SD 57501. In addition to mailing, checks can be left at BankWest in Kadoka or with any KAF Council Member.
• Credit Card: Visit www.SDCommunityFoundation.org/Kadoka and click “Donate Now.”

Kadoka Area Foundation Advisory Council

• Rusty Olney, President, 605.484.2517
• Eileen Stolley, 605.454.1391
• Baxter Hogen, 605.415.0678
• Brian Hundertmark, 970.215.6516
• Tia Stout, 605.441.1304
• Patty Groven, 605.390.6392
• Donna Enders, 605.441.6786
• Hillary Stout, 605.391.4664