Growing Generosity with Britton Area Foundation
In communities like Britton, S.D., generosity is not just an idea. It is a way of life. Through Britton Area Foundation (BAF), that spirit of giving has been shaped into something lasting, supporting local needs today while building a stronger future for generations to come.
Patty Roehr, a longtime board member of BAF, joined South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF) Community Development Coordinator Patrick Gallagher to reflect on the foundation's history and impact as well as the role community savings accounts play in strengthening rural communities.
Built by the Community
BAF was established in the mid-1990s through a shared vision and strong local leadership. Roehr has been part of the effort since the beginning.
“I’ve been in Britton pretty much my whole life. I got started with Britton Area Foundation way back in the beginning when it started and have just been a part of that ever since,” shared Roehr.
Early momentum came from a matching effort supported by community leaders and businesses, combined with grassroots outreach. Volunteers met with residents, hosted small gatherings and worked to explain a new concept to many.
“A community savings account, what is that?” Roehr recalled people asking in those early days.
That early curiosity soon turned into support. Through consistent effort and local buy-in, BAF built a base that continues to grow today.
Small Gifts, Lasting Impact
One of the defining strengths of BAF is how it has grown over time. Rather than relying on a few large donations, its success has been built through many smaller gifts from individuals and families across the community.
“We’ve had a lot of donations, but no really big ones. Most of our donations are probably $5,000 or less… but many, many of them.” Roehr shared with a smile.
Those contributions, combined and invested over time, have created a meaningful and sustainable source of funding for the community.
“It’s added up to where we are pretty happy with what we’ve accomplished,” she said.
Meeting Needs in the Moment
Community savings accounts offer something especially valuable for rural communities: the ability to respond when needs arise. Roehr described how, in the past, communities often had to spend years fundraising for a single project, sometimes losing momentum along the way.
“The best part about having a community savings account is we have the money to help now when the idea comes up,” she said.
This shift allows communities to act more quickly, supporting projects and initiatives while energy and enthusiasm are still strong.
“It’s a really neat deal,” Roehr added, noting how the model has changed what is possible for local communities.
Investing in Education and Opportunity
Over the years, BAF has supported a wide range of local efforts. One example that stands out to Roehr is a teacher grant program made possible through a donor-established fund. Each year, teachers in the Britton and Langford school districts can apply for funding to support classroom needs that fall outside traditional school budgets.
“We contact them every year and ask them if they have needs or wants that they’re not going to be able to get through the school’s budget,” Roehr said.
The program has grown into a trusted resource for educators, helping bring new tools, technology and opportunities into classrooms.
“It’s been a beautiful thing,” she said.
Looking Ahead
As the foundation continues to grow, Roehr remains focused on its long-term impact. While fundraising continues, the emphasis is on sustaining and expanding the foundation’s ability to serve the community.
“My hope is that the fund just continues to grow, and that we’ll continue to be able to make a difference in these small communities,” said Roehr.
That steady growth ensures the foundation can support both current needs and future opportunities across northeastern South Dakota.
A Way of Life
“Philanthropy is just part of life when you live in a small rural community."
For Roehr, philanthropy is not defined by large gestures. It is reflected in everyday acts of generosity that bring communities together. From supporting neighbors in times of need to celebrating milestones together, that culture of giving is deeply rooted.
“I’m always amazed that somehow the money just shows up. I think that’s part of where we live and who we are,” Roehr said.
Through BAF, that spirit of generosity continues to grow. Lasting support continues to uplift the community and ensure that giving today will benefit generations to come.