Families searching yet for fun and educational opportunities for their children this summer have a unique opportunity in Flandreau. Vacation Bible School for children returns in just a few weeks, July 31-Aug 3.
The camp is free and open to all.
Flandreau Community VBS is a local nonprofit that was started last summer and involves numerous churches from throughout the region. Local churches that have supported VBS in the past include 2nd Presbyterian Church, Flandreau United Methodist Church, Messiah Lutheran Church, Our Blessed Redeemer Episcopal Church, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, The Rescue Church, and Trent Baptist Church.
Representatives of the Colman Lutheran Church joined this year as well. Megan Fritz, representing that congregation, has been an active member of the Planning Team.
“The campers have so much fun while they learn life-changing things and grow in their faith,” Malerie Yeaton, a member of the planning committee says. “Kids get to spend time together a few weeks before school starts. Many of them don’t get to see each other during the summer. They learn about important Bible stories and a great message: serving others!”

This year’s theme is Hero Hotline: Called Together to Serve God!
“To go along with the hero theme, we’re going to learn more about and recognize our local heroes: police officers, medical personnel (doctors, nurses, EMTs, etc.), members of the military (both active and veterans), and firemen. During snack time, the campers will get to meet local ‘heroes’ and learn more about how they help our community. If you are a local hero, you’re invited to come visit,” Yeaton added.
Local police are asked to stop on Monday morning, medical personnel (doctors, nurses, EMTs, etc.) Monday afternoon, active military Tuesday morning, military veterans on Tuesday afternoon, firemen on Wednesday morning and military veterans on Wednesday afternoon.
All heroes are asked to attend the program and Community Meal Thursday night for a special presentation.
This year VBS is launching a mission project with the children where they hope to collect new blankets and stuffed animals for young patients that visit the Avera Flandreau Hospital and Avera Flandreau Clinic. Campers can begin bringing those the first day and they will be collected through Thursday.
“This is a huge need and the hospital staff really appreciates when these things are donated. Many local families have experienced, firsthand, what it’s like to have a child in the emergency room that is given a new blanket and/or a stuffed animal. It’s one small thing that can make a big difference in making the child feel more happy or comfortable. This is a way we can help our local heroes in the medical field!” said Yeaton.
Volunteers and monetary donations are crucial to making VBS happen, organizers say. You can go through Signup Genius (see QR code) to register as a “volunteer” or to donate needed supplies or snacks. You can also email flandreaucommunityvbs@gmail.com with any questions. Monetary donations can be mailed to Flandreau Community VBS, 409 N. Wind St, Flandreau, SD 57028 or dropped off at First National Bank, Flandreau Branch.
 Donations go toward purchasing supplies, decorations, curriculum, publicity items (posters/postcards), postage, snacks, and t-shirts for the campers. Through the support of local communities and churches, the event is offered free of charge to area families and all are welcome.
On Sunday, July 9, the VBS Committee will be holding a hymn sing at The Merc in downtown Flandreau beginning at 4 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join. They also will be present at a few of the Farmer’s Markets held Thursday evenings on the Moody County Courthouse lawn.