South Dakota’s Second Century Habitat Fund Gala Exceeds Expectations

Second Century Habitat Fund Gala

The Second Century Habitat Fund (SCHF) hosted its inaugural Gala on June 3rd, 2023, at the Sioux Falls Convention Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The purpose of the event was to raise awareness and financial resources for habitat and conservation work across the state. With a turnout of over 500 people, the Gala featured country music artist Coffey Anderson, special guest speakers Willie Robertson of Duck Dynasty, Pheasants Forever CEO and President Marilyn Vetter, and South Dakota’s Governor Kristi Noem.

The event began with Coffey Anderson delivering a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner alongside the South Dakota Army National Guard Honor Guard. During dinner, a film sponsored by Millborn Seeds titled “Planting the Seed” premiered, showcasing the work of the fund. Marilyn Vetter, CEO of Pheasants Forever, presented the fund with a $50,000 check in support of the Winter Storm Initiative.

Second Century Habitat Funds Innagural Gala, June 3rd, 2023

The Gala also included live and silent auctions, raffles, and other games to raise funds. The highlight of the fundraising efforts was the announcement of a raffle for a brand new Toyota Tundra and AlumaCraft boat, which had been ongoing since October 2022. In total, over $700,000 was raised for habitat conservation across South Dakota.

“The Gala was an incredible night for the future of habitat and conservation in South Dakota,” said Adam Bender, Chairman of the Board. “From landowners and outdoor-industry leaders to celebrities and elected officials, it was inspiring to see so many people come out and show support for the Second Century Habitat Fund.”

The Gala also included live and silent auctions, raffles, and other games to raise funds. The highlight of the fundraising efforts was the announcement of a raffle for a brand new Toyota Tundra and AlumaCraft boat, which had been ongoing since October 2022. In total, over $700,000 was raised for habitat conservation across South Dakota.

“The Gala was an incredible night for the future of habitat and conservation in South Dakota,” said Adam Bender, Chairman of the Board. “From landowners and outdoor-industry leaders to celebrities and elected officials, it was inspiring to see so many people come out and show support for the Second Century Habitat Fund.”