RAPID CITY, S.D. – Rapid City residents are invited to bring their appetites and support a good cause at the second annual Community Chili Cookoff Tuesday evening at the Dahl Arts Center.
Hosted by City of Rapid City employees, the fundraiser will run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and benefit the City Utility Assist program, which helps local families keep essential water, sewer, and solid waste services active during times of financial hardship.
This year’s event theme is “Good Chili, Great People, A Stronger Community.” Attendees can sample chili, vote for their favorites in the People’s Choice competition, and make donations to the assistance program while enjoying live entertainment from Chris Graves.
Organizers say last year’s cookoff raised more than $1,600 for utility assistance. The City partners with the Saint Vincent DePaul Society to administer the program, which has provided more than $20,000 in utility assistance to Rapid City customers since October 2025.
Earlier this month, the Rapid City Council approved $10,000 in matching funds to support this year’s fundraiser. Event organizers hope the community will help build on the program’s success and provide additional support for residents facing temporary financial challenges.
Those interested in competing can register online, while community members are encouraged to attend, taste chili, and support a worthy local cause.
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