Children in need, veterans, Special Olympic athletes and the local Black Hills community will benefit from the extreme generosity of the biker community, who raised a record $530,498 through Sturgis Buffalo Chip charity events during the 84th Sturgis Rally. The altruistic nature of Sturgis Rally visitors is on display every year, but for the first time ever Sturgis Buffalo Chip events raised over half a million dollars in one year.
“I’m blown away. There’s no better way to put it, just absolutely blown away,” said Rod Woodruff CEO of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. “The rally isn’t about ‘big bad bikers’ and crime statistics; it’s about having the best time of your life and doing what makes you happy. And for so many people, participating in charity events and raising money for worthwhile causes is what makes them happy. We’re blessed to have so many wonderful people attend our charity events and help us make a difference in the lives of children, veterans, athletes and the local community year after year. Thank you to all who helped make a difference!”
The grand total raised during Buffalo Chip charity events now exceeds $2.8 million. Charities that received funds in 2024 include Special Olympics South Dakota – Rapid City Flame, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, Naja Shriners Children’s Transportation Fund, All Kids Bike, Helping with Horsepower, The Jessi Combs Foundation, The NASCAR Foundation, and direct-to-veteran donations through the Freedom Celebration.
“The fundraising from the charity rides every year to support Special Olympics South Dakota – Rapid City Flame is amazing,” said Tiffany Smith, chair of the Rapid City Flame committee. “The generosity of motorcyclists from all over the world allows us to expand and enhance our programs for athletes with intellectual disabilities throughout South Dakota.”…