Protecting children from the damaging effects of the sun is our goal.

Play time should be safe time.

Made for Shade

Made for Shade is the heart and soul of Dr. Lycia Thornburg and her partners at Rapid City Medical Center's The Skin Institute. Dedicated to sheltering children from the damaging effects of the sun while fostering a love of outdoor play, Dr. Thornburg and her team of volunteers, with the Made for Shade organization, have funded and supported 15 shade structures in the Black Hills since 2007.

Our Fundraising Event

June 12th, 2025

Schools, Parks, & Sports

Past Recipients

Schools, Groups, Non-Profits

Apply for a Shade Structure

Local Supporters

Sponsors & Donors

Recent News

An incredible evening was had at the Wild Game Dinner Event - all in support of Made for Shade carity. Guests enjoyed a stunning 8-course menu, from alligator croquettes to caribou and moose, featuring wild game generously provided by local hunters and friends of Brad Estes.

Our lucky auction winners, Mike and Tracy Frost, invited their friends to share this one of a kind experience at Brett's Barn. A heartfelt thank you to Brett Estes, Kevin Huether, Ron Conrad, and chef Tom VanVlack for creating such a memorable evening, and to Eli Schneider at Canyon Lake Liquor for expertly pairing wines with every dish. And a huge thank you to Tracy and Mike Frost for buying this amazing package.

It's moments like these that remind us of the power of community, all while supporting Made for Shade's mission to protect kids from harmful sun exposure. Could you be this year's lucky winner? Stay tuned!