Xcel Energy: Powering communities with electricity, volunteer hours, community development grants and more
Dec. 1, 2025
This piece is sponsored by Xcel Energy.
Xcel Energy Sioux Falls Service Center employees are passionate about volunteering in the community on the company’s annual Day of Service and throughout the year. The Xcel Energy Foundation also awards economic development grants.
“Xcel Energy employees are deeply committed to the communities we serve. Our team is dedicated to delivering reliable, affordable energy while investing in the partnerships that help our region thrive,” said Steve Kolbeck, Xcel Energy state director for South Dakota. “By working closely with local organizations and community leaders, we build strong relationships that support economic growth and ensure our communities have the resources they need.”
Economic development grants
Four local communities each received a $5,000 economic development grant.
The city of Carthage, population 127, used its grant for a new storm safety siren for Lake Carthage and Carthage City Park on Redstone Creek.
The town of Ramona used its grant for ballpark upgrades so it can host summer baseball leagues and tournaments for its 159 residents.
The city of Tea used its grant for a new digital sign that welcomes people to the community of 7,381 residents and promotes local events.
The town of Monroe installed lighting at the ball field to enhance community and private events such as tractor pulls, weddings and anniversary parties for its 159 residents.
Supporting nonprofits and people in need
Xcel Energy Sioux Falls Service Center employees volunteer every year for local nonprofits, particularly those that help people in need.
In April, nine Xcel Energy Sioux Falls Service Center employees packed produce for 772 families and boxes of food for 200 families.
- Annual Xcel Energy Day of Service
In September, more than 1,200 Xcel Energy employees volunteered alongside community members for the company’s 15th annual Day of Service.
Twenty of those volunteers helped paint rooms and clean up garden beds for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire. Altogether, the event resulted in about 3,500 volunteer hours with an economic impact of over $120,000 for numerous nonprofits in South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota. The first Day of Service was held in 2010 to honor the victims, survivors and first responders of 9/11.
In 2025, the Xcel Energy Sioux Falls Service Center hosted two blood drives and donated 35 units of blood to help 105 local patients.
Inspired to give?
Xcel Energy also offers multiple ways for you to give back.
Looking for the perfect gift for parents, grandparents, kids living away from home or neighbors? Xcel Energy offers gift certificates ranging from $20 to $500.
They’re great for anyone who would appreciate a bit of extra comfort — perfect for housewarmings, weddings, new baby gifts or stocking stuffers. Personalize your gift with a message of up to 100 characters, or if you choose, your gift certificate can be sent anonymously.
HeatShare is a voluntary program administered by The Salvation Army that helps those in need survive long winters by providing funds for heating bills and heating-related repairs.
Find out more about these offerings here.
