Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership (ICAP), headquartered in Madison, South Dakota, has been awarded the first-place grand prize in the fifth annual ‘Who Powers You’ contest. Sioux Valley Energy, along with other electric cooperatives, hosted the contest spotlighting outstanding individuals or organizations making a difference in their communities.
Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership was chosen from among 19 finalists and recognized on May 28, 2026, on KELOLAND Living.
“As an electric cooperative, our services extend beyond delivering safe, affordable, and reliable power to our member-owners,” said Carrie Vugteveen, Vice President of Public Relations. “The ‘Who Powers You’ contest highlights the commitment of our Co-op to the communities and member-owners that we serve. Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership is a light in the region it serves and is very deserving of this honor.”
ICAP serves individuals and families across a 14-county region in eastern South Dakota through programs focused on education, housing, nutrition, and family support services. From helping children through Head Start programs to supporting older adults through nutrition services and helping families overcome barriers in times of need, ICAP works to strengthen communities and enhance quality of life. Their continued work demonstrates how meeting community needs creates opportunities for individuals and families to thrive.
As the grand prize winner, ICAP received a $3,000 award to support its continued efforts.
The second-place $1,500 prize was awarded to Aaron Vaughn and Tokata Youth Center in Fort Thomson, SD. This organization is in Central Electric Cooperative’s service territory. Tokata Youth Center provides educational programming, mentorship, and cultural learning opportunities for youth while creating a safe and supportive environment for students to learn and grow. Mary Jo Parker from Charles Mix Electric Association’s service area was awarded the third-place $500 award in the contest.
To learn more about the ‘Who Powers You’ contest, and to learn more about all finalists, visit whopowersyoucontest.com.
Sioux Valley Energy, a Touchstone Energy® Cooperative, is a member-owned electric utility, providing reliable electric service at cost-based rates to more than 30,000 homes, farms, businesses, and industries in a seven-county area of east-central South Dakota and western Minnesota.