Give Big Gallatin Valley is right around the corner and we wanted to highlight some of the many wonderful nonprofits we have in our community. Give Big is a 24-hour celebration of giving to connect generous community members with causes they care about most to raise important funding for Gallatin County nonprofits. This year is the 10th annual Give Big and their goal is to raise $3 million for over 260 local nonprofits in 24 hours. We encourage anyone who can give, to give big and support a cause you care about!
Light Well
Light Well is a wonderful Bozeman-based non-profit organization that supports Gallatin Valley families with kids diagnosed with cancer. This organization provides financial support for expenses not covered by insurance and serves as a platform for families to provide support to each other. They also donate to research organizations focused on improving cancer treatments for children. LightWell is an all-volunteer board made up of 10 directors. They work hard to keep as many funds going directly to the families and pediatric cancer research as possible. Since 2013, sixteen Gallatin Valley families have been supported. This is an incredible local organization. Donors can feel good knowing their donations will help families right here in the Gallatin Valley going through the unimaginable and support much needed childhood cancer cures.
https://www.lightwellfoundation.org/
Haven
Haven is a local non-profit that has been serving the Bozeman community since 1979. Their mission is to reduce the incidence and minimize the impact on families and communities of domestic violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, and stalking. They offer a 24-hour support line, emergency shelter, individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, education and legal advocacy. Haven has helped thousands in our community and is the only non-profit in the area serving survivors of domestic violence, sex trafficking and stalking.
https://havenmt.org/haven-homepage
Reach
Reach Inc. is a local, private, non-profit organization that’s been providing services to adults with developmental disabilities since 1974. Based on each person’s goals, they offer comprehensive housing, employment, and transportation support. Reach owns and operates six different residences offering a variety of services. Additionally, they can offer support to those who live in their own homes through their 24/hour Supported Living Services program. Reach operates a transportation service helping clients get to needed destinations such as work, appointments, shopping, banking and recreational activities. They also help clients gain and maintain employment in our community by their Supported Employment program. Their mission is to empower people to attain individual goals and aspirations. Currently, they empower over 90 clients to lead full, independent lives.
Gallatin Valley Food Bank
No one should have to go hungry, yet food insecurity remains a pressing issue for many individuals and families in Bozeman. Gallatin Valley Food Bank is on a mission to change that. Their vision is to create a healthier, more resilient, food-secure community in which all of the members are empowered and have the means to nourish themselves. Through its food distribution programs, community partnerships, and advocacy efforts, this nonprofit strives to alleviate hunger and improve food access for those in need. With the support of volunteers and donors, Gallatin Valley Food Bank is making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals facing food insecurity. Gallatin Valley Food Bank recently moved to a new location, The Marketplace, being part of HRDC’s Community Commons. This new establishment has a pay-what-you-can restaurant, Fork & Spoon, senior and childhood nutrition programs, and more.
https://gallatinvalleyfoodbank.org/
Big Sky Youth Empowerment
Big Sky Youth Empowerment is a scholarship and needs based program for the youth from grades 7th - 12th. Their mission is to create a transformative community where vulnerable teens can experience belonging, purpose and well-being by mentorship, workshops, adventure, and connection. Many of these teens are dealing with instability at home and school, or facing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Their workshops focus on teaching how to build healthy relationships, interpersonal skills and independent decision making. Sundays are for adventures, exploring and participating in various activities in the great outdoors of Montana. BYEP offers three different programs throughout the year, each lasting 12-13 weeks long. This is a great non-profit to donate to and help break down barriers for access to the outdoors, and provide a safe space for the participants to grow and build confidence for their future.
In conclusion, Bozeman's nonprofit community is a testament to the power of compassion, collaboration, and commitment to positive change. By supporting these nonprofits, whether through volunteerism, donations, or advocacy, we can all contribute to building a stronger, more resilient community in Bozeman and beyond.
We hope you can participate in Give Big this year. If you are in Bozeman be sure to attend the outdoor block party at Ferguson Farm Thursday May 2nd from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm. There will be interactive activities with over 70 local nonprofits, food trucks, a bar, live music, dance performances, raffles and more. Link for more information below.
