Don Roby: Strengthening South Dakota Communities

Pictured above left to right: Ryan Roby, Alyssa Roby, Don and his wife, Kelly, Nate and his wife, Britney Roby

Growing up in Watertown, Don Roby experienced firsthand the sense of community that makes small-town South Dakota special. Surrounded by family, friends and endless neighborhood activities, he developed a deep appreciation for the values that shaped him. That appreciation drives his commitment to giving back—helping ensure others have access to the same opportunities he did.

Roby joined South Dakota Community Foundation’s (SDCF) Board of Directors in 2022. Through his leadership and establishment of his and his wife, Kelly’s, own SDCF donor advised fund, Roby is an instrumental part of the Foundation’s work to bring philanthropy to life for South Dakota. 

Roby recognizes the importance of endowment giving, a philosophy at the heart of SDCF’s mission. While one-time gifts can create immediate change, endowments ensure long-term, sustainable support for causes that continue to serve future generations. He believes strong communities thrive when local leaders have the resources to enact meaningful change, and SDCF provides the tools to make that possible.

After earning a degree from South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, Roby embarked on a career with IBM, which took him across multiple states. Despite living elsewhere, he and his wife, Kelly, who grew up on a southwestern Minnesota farm, always felt the pull of home. In 2003, they decided to return to Watertown, eager to raise their three children in a close-knit community and pass on the same small-town values they cherished.

Since moving back to Watertown, Roby has been actively involved in local organizations and public service, including two terms with the Watertown City Council. Through these experiences, he gained a deeper understanding of his community’s strengths and challenges. His belief in the power of local leadership and collective action led him to SDCF, where he saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact—not just in his hometown, but across the entire state.

Looking ahead, Roby envisions every South Dakota community leveraging the opportunities SDCF offers. Whether it is retaining residents, attracting new ones or fostering economic growth, he understands financial sustainability is key. 

His advice to those considering philanthropy is to take the time and explore the possibilities. "Talking with SDCF can open doors—seeing what others are doing and understanding how to create lasting impact can help donors craft a plan that truly makes a difference."

If you are ready to make a difference in your community, reach out to South Dakota Community Foundation and learn how your giving can have a lasting impact. Together, we can build a stronger future for South Dakota.