In a powerful display of community support, the Dakota Riders Motorcycle Club...

...Mandan Chapter recently presented a check for $14,600 to Mandan Public Schools to benefit their Boost a Brave program. This generous donation, raised through the club’s first raffle supporting the local district, aims to support Kindergarten through 12th-grade students by providing essential resources that many families may not be able to afford.

Boost a Brave, was originally a quiet initiative at Braves Center Academy...

...provides critical assistance to students across the district, covering everything from warm winter clothing and meals to graduation caps and gowns. During the check presentation, Principal Callie Schnell expressed her gratitude, noting the impact these funds would have across every grade level. “Whether a kindergartener needs snow boots, a family needs help with a meal, or a senior needs a cap and gown, this donation makes a difference for all,” Schnell shared. Her heartfelt thanks brought tears to the big bad bikers, who pledged to continue supporting the program.

I spoke with Principal Callie Schnell to learn more about the donation's impact.

When asked what this donation meant to her personally and its effect on her vision for the school community, Schnell shared, “Before I was in my current position, I was a counselor in the district for 13 years. In that role, I was privy to understanding the non-educational needs of the students and families we serve. Everyone needs a boost at some point in their educational career, no matter how big or small.”

She added that the funds would be used to construct a district-wide centralized space where students in need can access extra resources such as pantry food items, school-related clothing, hygiene products, and other essentials with the support of school staff.

Schnell emphasized the value of community involvement, sharing, “If people would like to donate, they can contact either myself or Janelle Heinsohn, the community relations coordinator.”

In expressing her appreciation for the Dakota Riders and supporting businesses...

...Schnell said, “I cannot say thank you enough to the Dakota Riders, MATPAC, and all the other businesses for investing in our students as they are the future of our community. We are so grateful for the generosity of what this program encompasses and the people who help support it.”

The inspiration for Boost a Brave began with a conversation between Jim Thompson, President of the Dakota Riders Mandan Chapter, and a teacher from Braves Center Academy. Learning of the pressing needs faced by many local students, Thompson rallied the club to get involved. With the support of local businesses who generously contributed prizes, the Dakota Riders launched their inaugural raffle, channeling all proceeds to help students in need.

The Dakota Riders Motorcycle Club also extends a special thank you to the following businesses that supported this year’s raffle, making the substantial donation possible:

A&B Pizza
Ace Hardware
Action Motorsports
Black Lions
Border States
Chevrolet of Mandan
Finish Line Automotive Addictions
The Firepit
The Gun Shop
Matpac Wrestling Club
Mindful Health
Nardawahls Tattoo Emporium
Old Town Tavern
Rainbow Energy
Roughrider Harley Davidson
Scapegoat Bar
Scheels
Schwan Buick GMC
Scooter Shak
Tipton Home Construction
Townsquare Media
Vicky's Bar

This successful first raffle has set the stage for what the Dakota Riders hope will become an annual tradition, with even more community participation next year.