The September, 2003 Citizen of the Month is someone who extender her arms and heart to children in need. The Citizen of the Month will be presented to Ella Hauptmann at the Rapid City Council Meeting on Tuesday, September 2nd at 7 p.m. in the City/School Administration Center located at 300 6th Street.

Ella Hauptmann is a volunteer for the Black Hills Foster Grandparent Program. This program works with individuals over the age of 60, in settings such as schools, head starts, and the after school programs to work with children. Ella volunteers over 20 hours a week at Girls Inc. assisting 2nd and 3rd grade girl’s in many areas including homework, literacy and promoting positive social skills. Through Ella’s presence, the girls view senior citizens in a more positive light and see how they are able to give back to the community. Ella and the girls have a healthy intergenerational relationship and they miss her when she is not there.

Marcy Heemeyer, Program Director who nominated Ella, notes that she is such a positive influence on the young girls. She has a lot of energy and enthusiasm and truly makes a difference in their lives every day. Ella looks forward to working with the girls and finds her volunteer work rewarding and fun! She is the “grandma” to those who may not have one of their own. The staff at Girls Inc. point out that having Ella at the club really gives the girls a strong sense of community and family to their center. “Ella is always eager to help and shows kindness to all those she meets. She provides the girls someone to talk to and share their feelings with and always with a positive attitude.”

Ella is originally from Arkansas and moved to Rapid City in 1996 to be closer to her sisters. Ella’s husband passed away about five years ago and she has no children. She is an active member of the RSVP and the MEALS Program. She helps with various activities and social events at the River Ridge high-rise through the tenants association.

Ella is a wonderful individual that extends her heart and hands to love, guide and educate our new generation of community leaders.