Chiesman Center for Democracy | Communities Empowering Youth

Communities Empowering Youth Links

Action for the Betterment of the Community

Action for the Betterment of the Community (ABC) - ABC was founded in 1994 as a state mandated advisory board for the Safe and Drug Free Schools program in Meade School District 46-1. It has since expanded to become a non-profit organization recognized by the federal government. We serve the community in several ways with a broad representation of professions, a board of directors which advises the school on prevention, and as a community improvement committee dedicated to utilizing our resources for a better community. We accomplish all this with dedicated volunteers concerned about the welfare of this community. More is always needed! Anyone who has a genuine concern for our community can help. Step up and improve everything around you, otherwise who will?

Teen Resource Guide

Teen Resource Guide - As a teenager in the Black Hills, you are faced with various questions and decisions that require your attention. This is a wonderful, exciting yet confusing time. This webpage will help you make choices, and will give you the information and guidance you may need to reach intelligent, individual decisions.

Allene R. Chiesman Grants

BHSU Allene R. Chiesman Grant - The grant was charged to promote civic education for BHSU faculty and students with special emphasis and attention to broadening awareness of democratic ideals and the significance of citizenship. The Chiesman Speakers Bureau brings people to campus who can address issues relevant to the spirit and interests of the Chiesman Foundation. A broad range of speakers representing diverse perspectives are sought to educate, provoke and inspire the students and members of the community to think critically about the principles and practices of democracy, and to be fully engaged as informed citizens. Since 1998, the BHSU Chiesman Committee has spent approximately $15,000 purchasing books for the library related to promoting democracy.

The USD Allene R. Chiesman Fund for Civic Education - The fund strives to create a greater awareness of the meaning of democracy and democratic ideals, the role of law and the nature of citizenship in a democratic society, and the relationship of economics and democracy. Allene R. Chiesman, a South Dakota native, was a philanthropist who supported the American and democratic way of life. Her beliefs were rooted in the fundamentals of hard work and giving back to society a fair share of what one gains through living in a democratic society. Besides founding the Chiesman Foundation For Democracy and establishing an endowment to meet its mission and goals, she established scholarships and endowments at The University of South Dakota. The scholarships have helped many students meet their educational goals and the endowments fulfill the goals of preparing individuals to become active citizens and leaders within South Dakota.