South Dakota Gears Up For A Big America250 Celebration

In less than six months, America will celebrate a milestone birthday - its sesquicentennial - with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which took place on July 4, 1776.

Between now and July 4th of this year, several celebrations will commemorate the significant event, which has been dubbed America250.

South Dakota has its very own America's 250th Commission, which was established three years ago in anticipation of the nation's big birthday bash.

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One of the ways the commission is encouraging South Dakotans to get involved is the 'America Gives' initiative. The initiative challenges businesses, nonprofits, schools, youth groups, faith-based networks, and organizations from across the country to increase their level of volunteering.

To take part, local residents are being encouraged to log their volunteer hours. Not only will that benefit communities throughout the Mount Rushmore State, but it will also enter volunteers into a drawing for a chance to be one of 250 winners who choose where America250 will donate $1,000,000 they have earmarked for this effort.

• America's Field Trip (through March 30): A nationwide contest for students in grades 3-12 to be part of our nation's 250th anniversary by sharing their perspectives on what America means to them - with the chance to earn a field trip experience at some of the nation's most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.
• Walk 250 Miles by 2026: Sponsored by the Department of Game, Fish, and Parks, this program encourages South Dakotans to track their miles as they walk through the varied landscapes of South Dakota. Prizes will be awarded to participants completing 250 miles by July 4th.
• A Reading Adventure Through America's History (beginning July 1): The South Dakota State Library invites you to expand your mind as we celebrate our nation's 250th Birthday. Join us for a self-paced, self-reported reading celebration for all ages.
  You can achieve reading milestones, read a title from our challenges, or just enjoy reading.

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