Community of Giving 2016 by Billings Gazette

Sixth Annual

Community of Giving

These organizations make a differenceâ&#x20AC;Ś

You can too!

Sixth Annual

Advertiser Index â&#x20AC;&#x152;Adult Resource Alliance....................................................9

Community of Giving 2016 Community of Giving is a special publication of The Billings Gazette

Arts Without Boundaries................................................ 15 Big Sky Senior Services, Inc............................................ 19 Billings Food Bank.......................................................... 23

General Manager Dave Worstell

Billings Studio Theatre.................................................... 12

Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau

CASA of Yellowstone County............................................11

Advertising Manager Shelli Scott

Family Service................................................................. 17

Special Sections Coordinator Spencyr Knatterud

MSU-Billings Foundation..................................................4

Access Community of Giving at www.billingsgazette.com/ specialsections

Planned Parenthood of Montana.................................... 19 Ronald McDonald House...................................................9 Special K Ranch............................................................... 15 The Family Tree Center................................................... 21

016 has been a pinnacle year for Billings. The city has been recognized nationwide for the quality of life we enjoy, our beautiful Library and the hard work going into making our downtown a destination. It gives me great pride to call Billings my home; living in a region that provides a premier quality of life for its citizens, my family and me. Whether it is in education, business, sports, the arts or community services, Billings has something for everyone.â&#x20AC;&#x152;

At this time of year, friends, neighbors, and civic organizations come together to celebrate the spirit of the holidays in their own special way. It is truly a magical time. What you may not see is the wide range of important services that are being provided, behind the scenes, to children, families and individuals from all walks of life who are struggling to make ends meet. Inside the pages of Community of Giving, you will have a comprehensive look at our local non-profits and the range of important services they provide to our region and how they significantly enhance the quality of life in the Billings area. Our local non-profits who are steadfast in their missions continue to make a difference in the lives they serve. We are blessed to live in a community that cares about and is committed to providing essential services to those who need it the most. Please, consider taking time out of this busy holiday season to meet some of the remarkable people at nearby non-profits and discover rewarding opportunities existing for volunteers of all ages. I am sure you will find the spirit of the holidays and your unique way to celebrate this wonderful time of year. We hope you enjoy reading this publication and find inspiration in the good deeds accomplished every day. The Billings Gazette is proud to be a part of this giving community. I wish you all the happiest of holidays and best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year. Thank you,

Tumbleweed......................................................................3 Yellowstone Art Museum................................................ 21 Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter................................. 13

Michael Gulledge, Publisher Billings Gazette

YWCA of Billings................................................................7 ZooMontana.....................................................................11

Sunday, November 27, 2016

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Tumbleweed For 40 years Tumbleweed has served at-risk, runaway, and homeless youth and their families in Yellowstone County. Tumbleweed provides comprehensive programs particularly in times of conflict and crisis. Programs include: Drop-In Center, Transitional Living, Counseling, and Human Trafficking. The Tumbleweed team collaborates within the agency and with other community services to help stabilize clients’ crises and set them up to future success. Every client who comes through Tumbleweed has a unique story. Let’s explore one youth’s experience with Tumbleweed.

the next always thinking about where her next meal, shower, and even place to sleep would be. She hit a breaking point at school and opened up to her guidance counselor who quickly connected her with Tumbleweed’s Crisis Counselor, located in her school. Once connected with the Tumbleweed counselor she learned about the transitional Living program and how Tumbleweed could help her feel safe and stable. She applied and accepted into the program and was placed in one of the transitional houses. Routine tasks that had become a luxury during the two years she was jumping from house to house A Youth Story became normal for her again. One youth had been bounc- “I was actually able to put my ing from one friend’s couch to stuff in my own room. I didn’t

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

have to worry where I was going to sleep that night, or where I was supposed to take a shower, what I was going to eat. That wasn’t a burden on me anymore.” Throughout her time at Tumbleweed her challenges changed from minimum basic needs to seeking acceptance of her peers and even herself, “I believe that the hardest thing was finding myself, but it’s been the best thing in the long run.” She wants to attend university to become a public speaker, “I really want to give back and I want to show all the kids that no matter what you’re going though you’re going to come out in a positive way and you’re going to be such a big impact on someone else’s life.”

“I just wish everyone would just understand that Tumbleweed does make a difference and, that without Tumbleweed I don’t know where I would be. I don’t know [if] I would be on the streets right now, honestly I don’t know if I’d still be in school and they saved my life, they made sure [I] had somewhere to go and they cared about me, so no, I don’t know where I’d be and I’m so thankful for them.”

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Montana State University Billings Foundation

AN INVESTMENT ON THE MSU BILLINGS C AMPUS

Is an Investment in the Future

Yellowstone Science and Allied Health Building MSU Billings has outgrown Science Hall. The need for updating and expanding the building is real. The planned expansion will not only provide a new home for the growing College of Allied Health Professions, it will enhance student learning, attract additional students, attract additional faculty, as well as create a learning environment that encourages and fosters collaboration, innovation, and growth for both departments. With an expansion of approximately 30,000 square feet of instructional and research space, Yellowstone Science and Allied Health Building will provide a hands-on laboratory environment, enhance research capacity, increase student enrollment and preparation in growing high-demand occupations, and will attract increasingly research-oriented faculty to the institution. The facility will be highly energy efficient with LEEDSilver certification. The three floors will accommodate: • modern teaching laboratories • new performance laboratories • applied research space • classrooms • multi-media student research/study center • wet and dry science laboratories • student support areas • departmental support office space Over 85% of all MSU Billings graduates stay and work in Montana and the surrounding region. Over 50% of those graduates remain in Yellowstone County, providing services to those in the area and the region. It is estimated that within the next ten years, the State of Montana will need more than 15,500 additional healthcare workers.

• state-of-the-art technology in all classroom and laboratory spaces, including a multi-media student research center • a TEIL (Technology Enhanced Integrated Learning) Laboratory

INvest NOW: Total Project Cost of $18 Million $8 Million* in Gifts from Corporate and Private Sponsors $10 Million from the Montana State Legislature * MSU Billings needs to raise $5 million to receive the $10 million from the state. However, to provide the necessary enhanced laboratory facilities and support for student learning, the committee is raising a minimum of $8 million.

Sunday, November 27, 2016

To invest in or for more information on the Yellowstone Science and Allied Health Building: Online: msubillings.edu/foundation/yellowstonebuilding Phone: 406-657-2244 Email: robbie.carpenter@msubillings.edu Mailing address: 1500 University Drive, Billings, MT 59101

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Now is the Time

MSU Billings’ current science building was constructed in 1947 and is in need of renovation to accommodate the number of students using the facility, as well their educational, equipment and modern technology needs. Additionally, the structure will be expanded to house the growing College of Allied Health Professions. The campus’ location in the heart of Montana’s largest medical corridor provides exceptional access to integrated learning for Allied Health Professions and Science students, and affords outstanding opportunity for employment upon graduation in diverse medical- and science-related ﬁelds. Over 80% of the graduates work and remain in Montana, and over 50% of those remain in the Billings area, serving the region. Today’s students will be tomorrow’s workforce serving the healthcare, energy, agri-business, and preventative health ﬁelds — and many others. 53

Dr. Mark Nook Chancellor, MSU Billings The Yellowstone Science and Allied Health Building is essential to teaching students how to be great scientists and careful healthcare givers. Montana State University Billings is ten years from its centennial. It’s our chance now to sit back and take some time and look to our future and decide where this institution is going and where we need to be ten years from now so that we can serve Eastern Montana for the next thirty or forty years following. Lenette Kosovich, RN, MHA CEO Rimrock Foundation, MSU Billings 2002/2006 Our community, as well as Montana, has really put forward STEM education as an important way to advance our economy and the future. Therefore, we need to stay current to and be able to provide that opportunity for students to get into those types of careers. I think the building will help draw the caliber of students that we want here in Billings and in Montana.

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

to INvest

Steve Arveschoug Executive Director, Big Sky Economic Development Authority We have to have a growing, exciting university. It’s the rock in the pond that stimulates all kinds of additional private investment and job creation in our community. Now’s the time. So, when a university invests in new programs, new buildings, new facilities, the private sector is paying attention to that. We have such great demands for workforce and talent and making investments in our University now can set the stage for such economic success as a community.

Bernie Harrington MSU Billings Foundation Emeritus Trustee, EMC 1984 I think that the the most excitement that I’ve seen around the University has been around it’s growth. I think that the science building project now is a new step forward and and lends more growth and more excitement, not only to the University, but to the Billings community as a whole. And I think it’s a very positive thing for the whole region. Wanda Anderson Vice President, First Interstate Bank I’m supporting the new building because I just think it’s such an important new development for this campus. It introduces state-of-the-art equipment, lab research facilities, but even more importantly, it allows the schools to keep up with the changing environment.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Bill Kennedy, President & CEO 406.657.2244 bill.kennedy@msubillings.edu or Robbie Carpenter, Campaign Director 406.657.2332 robbie.carpenter@msubillings.edu Sunday, November 27, 2016

Did you know?

Factors for prospective volunteers to consider METRO SERVICES

Volunteering is a wonderful way for people of all ages to give back to their communities. While volunteers generally offer their time and skills in an attempt to help others, volunteering also helps the volunteers in various ways. According to Child Trends, a nonprofit research organization focused on improving the lives and prospects of children and their families, studies have shown that adolescents who volunteer are less likely to become pregnant or use drugs than teens who do not volunteer. In addition, Child Trends notes that kids who are involved in community service or volunteer in political activities are more likely than non-volunteers to have a strong work ethic as adults. And the benefits of volunteering are not exclusive to youngsters. A 2013 study from researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found that adults over 50 who volunteered on a regular basis were less likely than nonvolunteers to develop high blood pressure. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a significant finding, as high blood pressure has been linked to both heart disease and stroke. Finding the right volunteering opportunity can make the experience of volunteering even more enjoyable. When examining po-

Sunday, November 27, 2016

tential volunteering opportunities, prospec- Time tive volunteers can consider a host of factors Time is another important factor for proto find the right fit for them. spective volunteers to consider. Some volunteering opportunities require greater time Personal interests commitments than others, and would-be Would-be volunteers who can find a way volunteers must be honest with themselves to align their personal interests or hobbies when assessing how much time they have to with a volunteering opportunity may enjoy offer. Volunteers without much time to oftheir efforts more than if no such connection fer should look for more flexible opportuniexists. For example, current or former ath- ties that require smaller time commitments, letes may enjoy coaching a local youth sports while those who have plenty of time on their league, while amateur or professional cooks hands can explore more extensive volunteerand chefs may enjoy the chance to prepare ing gigs. meals at local food banks or convalescent homes. Goals Prospective volunteers should consider Professional experience their reasons for volunteering and what they Prospective volunteers may find volun- hope to gain from their experience before teering more rewarding if they can combine choosing an opportunity. Men and women their professional experience with their who recently overcame an illness may find it philanthropic efforts. Many charitable or- most rewarding to work with an organization ganizations are in need of operational help that raises awareness about that condition that helps them manage their day-to-day or disease. Parents who want to get their efforts smoothly. Experienced profession- kids involved in volunteering should seek als may be able to fill these valuable roles. opportunities that allow youngsters to gain Accountants can offer to help organizations hands-on experience. Volunteering is a great way to give back to balance their books, while professional fundraisers may be able to help organize events a community. The experience of volunteerfor charities looking to raise money to meet ing can be that much more fulfilling when their missions. volunteers find an engaging activity.

Designed to serve as the unofficial kickoff to the holiday charitable giving season, Giving Tuesday is celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the United States. While events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday have become incredibly popular among holiday shoppers looking for great deals on gifts for their loved ones, Giving Tuesday aims to capitalize on the holiday spirit of giving by celebrating philanthropy and promoting charitable giving. Giving Tuesday began in 2012 and was the brainchild of the team at the Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact at New York Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 92nd Street Y, which has brought people together around the values of service and giving since 1874. Nonprofits, civic organizations, for-profit businesses and corporations, individuals, and families have participated in Giving Tuesday since its inception. In 2015, with the cooperation of donors, volunteers and organizations in 71 countries, the Giving Tuesday movement raised nearly $117 million. More information about Giving Tuesday is available at www.GivingTuesday.org.

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

YWCA Billings YWCA Billings has been saving, changing and improving the lives of women and children for more than 100 years. Their umbrella of services help people transition from violence and poverty to having jobs and living independently. YWCA’s Transitional Services offer a hand up, rather than a hand out! YWCA is grateful this season and always for those who care and help make a difference through generous donations. These are the ways your support makes a vital difference to those we serve:

GATEWAY

CO-ENROLLMENT

Victims of domestic violence are often unemployed and living in poverty, finding it difficult to escape their violent relationships. YWCA’s co-enrollment program augments safe shelter with case management so victims can secure housing and jobs.

The only secure 24-hour, 365 daysper-year shelter in an 18,512 square mile area, Gateway provides nearly 8,000 nights of protection annually to hundreds of women and children. Nearly 98% of those we serve are disadvan- LEGAL ADVOCACY taged, under-served and/or Native YWCA’s newest service is on-site legal support for victims of domestic American.

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

violence and others who qualify for GATEWAY VISTA YWCA’s Co-Enrollment program. Our APARTMENTS Legal Coordinator is an attorney with specialized knowledge of domestic YWCA Billings plans to build affordviolence and civil law issues that affect able housing on our existing campus for YWCA clients. low- income families especially women and children who are trying to break away from violence and poverty. Our COUNSELING goal is to extend the positive impact and Issue-specific counseling is provided protection provided through the Gateby a professional social worker to ad- way shelter by offering affordable housdress the psychological and emotional ing along with employment counseling, effects of domestic and sexual violence job training, child care, legal advocacy, counseling, and other services, so we can deliver meaningful support over a CHILD CARE AND PRE-K longer period. YWCA’s Child and Learning Center provides licensed care with strong academic skills that prepare children for school. Well-being is enhanced through the Nutrition for Learning program and healthy out-door play. Nearly 40% of Child Center families are provided tuition assistance.

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Being charitable when money is tight way to give back to one’s community. Nonprofits and charitable organizations may fall short of meeting their missions if not for the valuable services provided by volunteers, so pitching in can be just as valuable as writing a check. Discuss your personal and professional experience with an organization to find a volunteering opportunity that suits you and your skill set. In addition to chariVolunteering‌ table organizations, schools, hospitals, liAccording to the United States Bureau of braries, and religious institutions may have Labor Statistics, roughly 63 million people volunteering opportunities for those who volunteered through or for an organization want to give back. at least once between September 2014 and September 2015. Up north, the General So- Item donations‌ cial Survey on Giving, Volunteering and ParDonating time and money may be among ticipating from Statistics Canada found that the most popular ways to give back, but those more than four in 10 Canadians ages 15 and are not the only ways to donate to organizaolder volunteered to some degree in 2013. tions and people in need. Go through your Volunteering is a popular and rewarding closet and donate clothes you no longer METRO SERVICES

‌ he term “charitable giving” is often T associated with financial donations. But charity is not exclusive to donating dollars, and those who want to give back but can’t fit donations into their budgets can explore various ways to make an impact without writing a check.

Sunday, November 27, 2016

wear. Instead of selling furniture you plan to replace, contact local charitable organizations to see if they would like your furniture, or donate pieces that they can then sell to finance their operations. Some donated items, such as vehicles, may earn donors tax deductions.

Medical donations‌

Donating money or dropping off canned goods at food banks may be the first things many people think of when mulling charitable donations, but medical donations also present a great way to give back. The American Red Cross notes that blood donations help millions of people and a single blood donation can end up helping more than one person. The Red Cross also notes that roughly 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed in the United States alone each

day, while nearly 7,000 units of platelets and 10,000 units of plasma are needed daily. Donating blood, plasma or platelets can help save lives, and making such donations does not require substantial commitments of time. Organ donations also present a great way to give back. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes that an average of 22 people die each day waiting for transplants that cannot take place because of the shortage of organ donors. Many of those deaths may not happen if more people signed up to be organ donors, an act that may be as simple as checking a box on the back of your driver’s license. Charitable men and women without much room in their budgets to make donations can still make a difference by giving back in other ways.

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Ronald McDonald House The Future of Ronald McDonald House — Building Hope The House’s leadership, in concert with local owner/operators of McDonald’s restaurants and Ronald McDonald Charities of Eastern Montana, has devised a strategy that will improve its ability to serve out-oftown families seeking medical care in Billings-partnering with community leaders to fund a new addition to the House! The addition will be located on the existing parcel. It will replace the original 4,000 square foot portion of the House with a two-story 10,000 square foot addition. The addition will include:  Eleven Guest rooms with private baths  Kitchen  Laundry room  Living room(s)  Children’s play area

Once complete the two adjoining buildings will form a 19,000 square foot modern, comfortable, efficient home that has up to 20 guest rooms with private baths. Keeping families together is important because…  Children with parents at their bedside have a lower average lengthsof-stay in the hospital  Rested, alert parents can better support their child’s recovery  Less bedside care is needed by children with parents present  Parents can better tend to the needs of their child and make better decisions regarding his/her care when the parents are well rested.  Parents and siblings benefit from spending time at the House with families experiencing similar challenges.

Give Children the Best Gift of ALL… Their Families Give the gift of togetherness

Adult Resource Alliance Helping adults 60 and above stay active, live independently and live life to the fullest! For 41 years, the generosity of donors and volunteers in this community has helped the Adult Resource Alliance connect seniors with the resources and programs they need to live independently. Transportation, Meals on Wheels, social activities and information… the list of programs and services at the Adult Resource Alliance is a long one. During this season of giving, The Alliance pauses to thank all of its supporters for their gifts of time, expertise and financial aid. In our community in the past year:  474 individuals received 60,636 hot nutritious meals through the Meals on Wheels Program.  1,833 individuals enjoyed 56,625 meals with friends and neighbors at 11 meal sites around Yellowstone County.  9,380 rides were provided to 359

individuals.  554 Alliance senior volunteers served 75,619 hours at over 72 organizations across Yellowstone County.  8,158 consultations were provided to 3,702 clients in the Resource Center on subjects ranging from Medicare and Medicaid to guardianship and housing. These services, in addition to the many varied opportunities for socialization, are a priceless resource to Yellowstone County citizens 60 and over, their families and caregivers. We want to thank the voters of Yellowstone County for passing the county mill levy in the primary election to continue to support the important services that allow our friends, neighbors and family to remain in their homes as long as it is safe for them to be there.

Thank You It’s been a great year thanks to our network of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. You’ve made a difference in the lives of adults in Yellowstone County age 60 and above.

Want to volunteer or get involved? Contact us today! Details at:

AllianceYC.org 1505 Ave D, Billings, MT (406) 259-9666 | visit us on facebook

of Billings COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Ronald McDonald House® of Billings 1144 North 30th Street, Billings, MT 59101 Phone: 406-256-8006 Fax: 406-256-0130

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Disaster relief: Guidelines for giving METRO SERVICES

Explore the most charitable nations in the world ‌The CAF World Giving Index routinely ranks the most charitable nations. The rankings are based on data from Gallup and Charities Aid Foundation. Individuals may find it interesting that philanthropy is not directly related to material wealth. Only five of the countries in the index are members of the G20, a forum of the world’s largest economies. In fact, many less affluent places hold top positions in the rankings. The WGI ranks the nations on their propensity to help a stranger, donate money and volunteer time. These percentages are factored together to provide a WGI score and ranking. Here’s how the nations measured

1. Myanmar 2. United States 3. New Zealand 4. Canada 5. Australia 6. United Kingdom 7. Netherlands 8. Sri Lanka 9. Ireland 10. Malaysia

up for the most recent year of reporting. The United States falls to second place this year thanks to a 5 percent decrease in financial donations (the United States is 12th in the world for charitable donations). However, a very high proportion of the American population (76 percent) helps strangers. For the third year in a row, Myanmar topped the WGI. Most people in the country are devout Theravada Buddhists, and charitable giving is integral to their religion. While donations tend to be small, many give daily, with 92 percent of the population making charitable donations in 2014.

‌Disasters are defined as accidents or natural catastrophes that cause widespread damage or great loss of life. Disasters are often unpredictable and can occur anywhere around the world. When disasters happen, survivors are often in need of assistance. Disaster relief support is charitable giving at its finest. But helping after a disaster requires both forethought and strategy so donors can rest easy knowing their donations are going to the right place.

Work with reputable organizations‌

most needed by disaster survivors, when it is needed. Also, cash donations allow relief supplies to be purchased near the disaster site, avoiding delays and steep transportation and logistical costs that can quickly eat up relief fund budgets.

Confirm the need before sending materials‌

Many people feel a desire to send material donations in addition to cash. Sometimes there are opportunities to do so, but do your homework before sending supplies, as some organizations ask that supplies not be sent. If there is no need, unsolicited materials can cause supply delays, take up storage space and/or require additional funds to remove unnecessary items. Furthermore, the cost to ship material supplies (that may not be useful) can be expensive. Disaster relief organizations typically can secure the necessary supplies, which is why many organizations request only financial donations.

If your first inclination is to provide financial support, do so by working with a reputable charitable organization that has a proven track record with disaster relief. Charities like Oxfam, the Red Cross and Direct Relief International organize relief efforts and are first on the scene when disaster strikes. These groups may be more trustworthy than groups without a track record of success regarding disaster relief. According to the Center Get clearance before for International Disaster Information, visiting disaster zones‌ Images of disaster zones can financial contributions allow professional relief organizations to purchase what is incite strong feelings that compel

people to travel and help out in person. While that’s a noble gesture, receive clearance before purchasing a plane ticket. The website HelpInDisaster.org can help people with specialized skills learn if there is a need for skilled workers or experts in a particular disaster zone. This ensures efforts can be sustained for as long as is necessary, and there will be no duplication of efforts. Working individually also may not be cost-effective, and you may compound the problem by causing more drain on an already jeopardized infrastructure.

Wait until media coverage has subsided‌

Many people rush to give in the first days following a disaster, only to have efforts trickle away as time passes and the limelight has stopped. Instead, wait out volunteering opportunities. You may find you are more effective afterward as rebuilding efforts begin anew. Helping out after a disaster can be a fulfilling venture if timed correctly and done in the correct manner.

11. Kenya 12. Malta 13. Bahrain 14. United Arab Emirates 15. Norway 16. Guatemala 17. Bhutan 18. Kyrgyzstan 19. Thailand 20. Germany

Sunday, November 27, 2016

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

CASA of Yellowstone County This holiday season over 500 children in Yellowstone County will find themselves in the foster care system because of child abuse or neglect. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) trains volunteer Advocates to speak in court for abused children. CASA Advocates develop a strong bond with the child as they investigate the child’s life and advise the court regarding the child’s physical, emotional, and educational needs. The goal of the CASA Advocate is simple; help the child find a safe, permanent home, as quickly as possible. Now more than ever, abused and neglected children need YOU! With record numbers of children entering the foster care system and a shortage of Advocates, these children are waiting for YOU to speak on their behalf. Do you have 5-15 hours a month to dedicate to becoming a CASA Advocate? New Advocate training takes only 1 evening a week for 6 weeks and starts

in January! Space is limited! Contact Sherri today to learn how you can join the January training! For more information call 259-1233 today or email Sherri at Sherri@yellowstonecasa.org. This season give an abused child a voice, YOURS.

Give an abused child a voice.

YOURS.

Call CASA 259-1233

w w w. Ye l l o w s t o n e C A S A . o rg COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

ZooMontana What a year 2016 has been for ZooMontana! The Zoo added new exhibits, held new events and education programs, built the new EEC ZooPavilion and continued to see an increase in our admissions. Of course, this would not be possible without the community’s support. Your dedication and commitment to ZooMontana gets stronger every year and for that we thank you. Add to this our incredible community partners, hardworking staff and selfless volunteers and you have an organization that is set to grow for years to come. From day one, we have promised to be YOUR Zoo, committed to hearing your requests, compliments and even criticisms. We are proud to be an asset to the community of Billings and look forward to what the future will bring. You can be certain of one thing, as the Billings Gazette Readers’ Choice vote has shown for the past 3 years, we will continue to work night and day to be the ‘Best Place in Billings for Families’!

several levels and animals available! CheCk out

zoomontana.org or Call 406-652-8100 for a list of benefits!

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Billings Studio Theatre 64 Years of Theatrical Excellence and Excitement! That is what Billings Studio Theatre (BST) has delivered to the community of the greater Yellowstone area. From their highly acclaimed, musical productions such as Les Miserables, Mary Poppins, and Shrek, to timeless plays such as On Golden Pond, and Cat On A Hot Tin Roof, BST gathers the best of local talent in carving out hit after hit, season after season. They provide a little something for everyone as their seasons contain a wide genre of material that varies from classical works and riveting, thought-provoking dramas to hilarious comedies and children’s shows. BST crafts each season to provide a balanced series that really is theatre for the whole family, BST believes a community becomes stronger as the quality of the amenities that are offered within it continues to increase. BST is dedicated to providing a consistent line of quality programing and, as such, has a loyal and dedicated patronage. Funding and contributions from Show Sponsors (both corporate and individual) and Donors continue to be the lifeblood of BST, allowing the theatre to pursue the presentation of new and quality material in a setting that is both comfortable and appealing. Financial donations, whether they are

Sunday, November 27, 2016

monies allocated for immediate needs or those that are designed to provide for the continued stability of the theatre over time, are the fuel for the growth of what has been affectionately titled “Your Community Theatre.” Of course, in-kind material, services and unrestricted gifts are always welcome. If you are considering a planned gift this season, our partnerships with the Billings Community Foundation and the Montana Community Foundation are designed to enhance the capacity of your gift while meeting the needs of our theatre. This association allows BST, through the BCF and MCF, to offer a variety of options in giving, some of which may have significant tax advantages for you as a donor. Located adjacent to the Rocky Mountain College campus, Billings Studio Theatre is in the heart of the city. For more information contact them at 1500 Rimrock Road, Billings, MT 59102 or visit www.billingsstudiotheatre.com.

Playing December 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18—2016

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter It does take a Community. As a community of animals and people living together, we share the mission of protecting and caring for all animals that live in our homes, neighborhoods, and on our streets. There is no truer sense of commitment and compassion, then in the partnership of YVAS and those who help us care for the lost, homeless, injured and sick animals. Simply, our story is your story and it remains the same every day, every week, and every year since March of 2009. The needs of the animals in our community and the folks surrounding them have not changed. For sure, we know this. Today, as in every day, we live our mission. “With compassion and without judgement we provide a respectful and safe environment for the companion animals in our community, and for the people who surround those animals.” Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter has the privilege to be your community shelter here in Billings and surrounding community with open doors

every day of the week for taking in gravely injured dogs and cats, providing medical treatment for them, and then finding new homes with loving families. We are here to help when life has turned upside down for you and your pet, to offer a helping hand in either finding a new home or helping you figure out ways to keep that animal with you in your life. We are here to receive lost animals, giving them food, water, and warmth until we can find their families. We provide low cost spay neuter and vaccinations for those of you who need that help. It is with your support, your dollars, your volunteer hours that we can continue to help this community and it’s animals… your animals, to be safe, alive, receive medical treatment, and either return to their homes or to be adopted into new homes. We need your financial donations to be able to continue this commitment to the animals. We are here, every day, holding out our hand to paws of the animals and folks with them. Please

donate today so that we can continue our mission.

Thor’s Story

Thor came to YVAS untrained, hard to manage, and difficult to place. He ping-ponged in his kennel barking at all who passed by. Staff made him a priority; he was the first dog for volunteers to walk every day, and secured plenty of play time for him with other dogs and with humans. Through consistency in handling, and a smidge of basic training, Thor began to learn manners. It was important to YVAS that Thor be placed in an active household with someone who would continue his training. After waiting patiently for over two months the perfect family came for him. Now, about five months later, Thor is thriving in his home and is a very well behaved boy. Thanks to the dedication of YVAS staff and the Keeling family for being sure that Thor got into the best possible home for what he needed!

You can make a difference….. Your generous donations to Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter can create a story of hope for not only “Thor”, but for many other critters who need medical care and homes.

THOR

Donate to YVAS today to make a difference for the animals living in your homes, neighborhoods, and streets. The need is greater than ever right here in this community...Billings and Yellowstone County. 1735 monad rd COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Make a difference today by donating to Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter at: www.yvas.org or send your check to YVAS, PO Box 20920, Billings, MT 59104 Sunday, November 27, 2016

Spur children’s interest in the arts METRO SERVICES

‌ rt can enrich the lives of people young A and old, male and female. The arts can introduce adults and children to different cultures and traditions, while also helping them to develop more fully as human beings. While some may feel the benefits of the arts cannot be measured, the nonprofit organization Americans for the Arts notes that kids who are involved in the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement than kids who are not involved in the arts. And though mathematics and science may not be the first thing people associate with the arts, kids involved in the arts are four times

Sunday, November 27, 2016

more likely to participate in math and science fairs than kids who are not involved in the arts. Parents can do a lot to make art a bigger part of their kids’ lives. The following are some simple ways parents can bring more art into their kids’ lives, courtesy of Americans for the Arts. Join in the fun. Parents can make art more fun for kids by playing music around the house and singing and dancing alongside their youngsters. In addition, read a book to or with your children and join in when they pursue other artistic endeavors, such as drawing or painting. Find local events. Many school dis-

tricts have slashed their arts budgets in recent years, but parents can still find local arts events for kids in their communities. Peruse the local newspaper and other community-based periodicals for cultural events for kids. Support local theater groups by attending performances with your children and explaining to them that the performers live in the community just like they do. Pitch in with local arts organizations. Local arts organizations typically rely on donations and volunteers to support their programs. Parents who want to instill a love of the arts in their children can help local organizations’ fundraising efforts and

even volunteer their time if the opportunity presents itself. If possible, take kids along when volunteering so they can get some firsthand experience with the arts. Encourage kids’ artistic pursuits. Some kids may decide to pursue artistic endeavors on their own, and parents can encourage such pursuits. Celebrate kids’ participation in arts-based activities in school and in the community, recognizing their hard work in the same way you would acknowledge their successes in the classroom and in sports. The arts can benefit youngsters in various ways, but it’s often up to parents to instill a love of the arts in their children.

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Arts Without Boundaries Arts Without Boundaries is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that serves the students in our community by encouraging and facilitating their participation in music, art and creative writing. Our programs are open to all students â&#x20AC;&#x201C; public school, private school and home school. We provide free individual and group instruction, instruments and art supplies. We complement and supplement classroom instruction. Our belief is that every student that has the desire to play music, create art or write a story should have that opportunity, regardless of economic

status. Please save the date for our annual fundraising event, A Concert for the Arts on February 17, 2017 at 6:00pm. Featuring a band from Argentina, Los Pinguos, at the Yellowstone Country Club. Thank you for your generosity. Without local support, our program could not exist. Please help us continue our amazing programs by sending your tax deductible donations to: Arts Without Boundaries, P.O. Box 20392 Billings, MT 59104 or simply go to our website: www.artswithoutboundaries.wildapricot.org

Special K Ranch Special K Ranch provides familyoriented Christian homes, on a working ranch for adults who have developmental disabilities. The 31 residents live with home advisors who provide 24-hour loving care to the ranchers while living and working on the ranch. Residents lead safe, happy and productive lives in a rewarding and stimulating environment. Residents grow flowers, vegetables and bedding plants in a 65,000 sq. ft. greenhouse complex. These products are sold at more than 40 stores and restaurants in Montana. The ranch participates in the Yellowstone Valley

Farmers Market and a variety of activities in the community. Residents and staff also work together raising livestock and doing ranch projects. SKR operates independently of government funding; it is raising funds for both general operating purposes and for its endowment. Thanks to a generous matching gift, every gift given to the endowment between now and December 1 will be matched, up to a total of $250,000. If this goal is met, these gifts will also establish a building fund. For details contact Steven Aadland at (406) 550-2224, steve@specialkranch.org.

Providing family oriented Christian homes, on a working ranch for adults who have developmental disabilities.

What would happen if every fifth grader received free music lessons, or if every second grader was given a paintbrush at no cost? What if we gave third graders poetry lessons as a key to unlocking their imagination? At Arts Without Boundaries we give students these opportunities.Arts Without Boundaries encourages and facilitates student participation in the arts. We believe that student participation in art, music and writing is critical for students academically. We support and complement class room instruction.To find out more about our programs and how you can help give artistic opportunities to Billings students visit our website at www.artswithoutboundaries.wildapricot.org

A Concert for the Arts

Featuring Los Pinguos, a band from Argentina, 6:00 pm, Friday, February 17, at the Yellowstone Country Club Annual fundraising event.

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

406-322-5520 Sunday, November 27, 2016

Advantages to securing a career in philanthropy METRO SERVICES

â&#x20AC;&#x152; haritable work is commonly viewed as C something a person does out of the goodness of his or her heart. Volunteering time and/or donating money can foster good feelings and brighten the lives of both the person doing the giving and the individuals or organizations on the receiving end of that generosity. Those who embrace the experience of charitable giving or volunteering may want to replicate it over and over, and a career in philanthropy may be the ideal way to do just that. Getting paid to do charitable work does not negate the spirit of the philanthropic effort. People who work in the nonprofit sector can bring about change that has a far-reaching impact.

Sunday, November 27, 2016

According to a report by the Center for Civil Society Studies at Johns Hopkins University, nonprofit employment represented 10.1 percent of total employment in the United States in 2010. Philanthropic careers continue to grow, and the nonprofit workforce is the third largest of all U.S. industries behind retail trade and manufacturing. In addition, the business skills gained working in the nonprofit sector are transferable for those who want to leave room for a potential career change later on. Working in the nonprofit sector has several advantages. Some may be surprised to learn that nonprofit salaries can be on par with other industries, particularly in entrylevel positions when career experience is limited. Working for a charitable organiza-

tion does not mean working for nothing. And even when salaries are lower than corporate salaries, there are still benefits that can make the job well worth it. Many people who work in the nonprofit sector find that the working environment is more intimate. Some also feel they gain more hands-on experience in the nonprofit sector than they might elsewhere. According to Stanford Social Innovation Review, a social change journal, many nonprofit workers are given the opportunity to do work that falls outside of their job description. Nonprofit employment is multifaceted, and workers often wear many hats. This can provide considerable experience in a short period of time. Finding a job in philanthropy is not much

different than finding a job in the private sector. Begin by networking and expanding your list of contacts. Prospective employees can research nonprofit groups that have particular significance to them and scour their job listings or contact them about opportunities. Online job databases can make it easier to find job postings in the nonprofit sector. DotOrgJobs.com is one such site that allows job seekers to search for full- or part-time jobs in the nonprofit sector. There are many jobs in the nonprofit sector that may appeal to people of various skill sets. These include engineering, healthcare, administration, business, finance, and much more. Working in a nonprofit can be a rewarding experience in many different ways.

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Family Service Help stop poverty in Yellowstone County How do your gifts help at Family Service? Because of YOU, Family Service has been serving the less fortunate in our community for 110 years. We work every day to prevent hunger and homelessness and alleviate poverty through community involvement. We can’t do what we do without YOU! 1,300,000 pounds of food distributed to hungry people last year  Nutritious Family Food Boxes: 9,100+ family food boxes (approximately 80-130 lbs) to feed families with nutritious foods  Senior Food Boxes: Delivery of food boxes to the homes of shut-in low/ very-low income seniors  Community Overflow Food: Open to anyone who needs a little extra assistance

Holiday programs  1,800+ Family Meal Boxes create family celebrations in November and December  Toys for Tots and our annual Adopt-a-Family Program make the holidays a little brighter for children and their families

Rent and Utility Assistance  The program provides one-time per year, emergency assistance when unusual circumstances or events could cause a household to become homeless.

Education opportunities and Back to School Help  Adult education assistance to lift families out of poverty and student backpacks stuffed with school supplies

100,000 items of clothing  Thousands of pieces of gently used clothing distributed to people who need them. Clothing received from our generous community includes seasonally appropriate clothing like boots, shoes, hats, coats and gloves.

Dignity, Respect and Hope—Your gifts provide so much!

PLEASE HELP STRUGGLING FAMILIES IN YELLOWSTONE COUNTY! DONATE TODAY!

Not everyone has a Merry Christmas, but with the help of people like you, Family Service makes sure that every family has something to smile about this holiday season. One family out of six in Yellowstone County decides each month whether to feed their children or pay their rent. Those who face emergencies every day turn to Family Service for help!

Please help...

SIMPLE HOLIDAY WISH LIST Holidays: $50 brings traditional family meals home at Thanksgiving and Christmas Clothing: $100 stocks our community clothing room with warm clothing Food: $150 provides family food boxes and senior food box delivery

Warmth: $250 pays winter utilities for struggling families Home: $500 provides family stability and helps to prevent homelessness

Please give generously! Your help is crucial! YOUR DONATIONS EASE OVERWHELMING BURDENS FOR STRUGGLING FAMILIES IN YELLOWSTONE COUNTY

• Nutritious, Bountiful Food Boxes • Emergency Rent & Utility Assistance • Senior Food Box Delivery

• No-cost/Low-cost Warm Clothing • Education Assistance for Better Employment • Holiday Food & Children’s Gifts

 Online at www.billingsfamilyservice.org/donate  Call or email Jami at 384-0329 or jfunyak@famserv.com  Mail: PO Box 1020, Billings, MT 59103  Drop off at 1824 1st Ave. North, M-F 8:30am-4:30pm and Sat. 9am-4pm

Thank you!

billingsfamilyservice.org COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Sunday, November 27, 2016

6 steps to hosting a successful fundraiser METRO SERVICES

‌ undraisers help schools, politiF cal groups and charitable organizations stay afloat. Groups that do not offer products or services for sale must find other means to fund their operations, and fundraisers often fill that role. Charities Aid Foundation says that the number of people worldwide donating money to nongovernmental organizations, or NGOs, increased from 1.2 billion in 2011 to 1.4 billion in 2014. Fundraising involves more than putting a hand out and asking for money. Successful fundraisers have various things in common, regardless of the cause they’re promoting.

1. Decide on a clearly expressed purpose‌

ate action upon learning about a fundraiser, so plan to advertise extensively. Make sure the message gets heard and that potential donors have time to fit their donations into their budgets. Reach prospective donors through all the avenues at your disposal, including social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. Don’t overlook more traditional methods of advertising, including flyers and newspaper advertisements that may resonate with older donors. A combination of various types of advertising can cover all of the bases, offers the charitable giving organization GiveForward.

4. Consider getting a sponsor‌

Individual donations can fuel fundraisers, but a widely recognizable sponsor can help propel prospective donors to action. Many corporations include charitable donations into their quarterly budgets, and such organizations often offer donate incentives such as event tickets and goodie bags that can compel private donors to make donations. Restaurants can offer gift cards and other stores may be able to donate products to hand out. A local celebrity can bring in the foot traffic needed to make the fundraiser successful.

Individuals do not typically donate money without first being given a good reason to do so. Therefore, when beginning a fundraiser, organizers have to decide on the purpose of the event and spell out that purpose clearly. When sharing information about the fundraiser, include how the money will be allocated. Some charitable events have more than one objective, with a primary goal of raising money and additional desires to raise awareness and connect with new donors. When establishing a financial goal, organizers must 5. Give out prizes‌ come up with a final donations People may look forward to givfigure they hope to reach. ing to a good cause, but walking with something tangible in 2. Know your audience‌ away return also can elicit some good Understanding your goal is one feelings. Budget for prizes and factor, and knowing who you are other takeaways. Make the fundreaching out to is another. If it’s raiser a fun atmosphere and give school fundraising, understand participants a chance to win items that these may be cash-strapped through contests or other small families without much money to feats that will generate good will donate. In such instances, consider and enjoyment. incentivizing donations by entering donors into raffles for family- 6. Enlist volunteers‌ friendly outings or coupons to A fundraiser is not a one-person area businesses. Identifying your job. Volunteers are the backbone target audience can help you plan of successful fundraising efforts, effective strategies that reach that so make sure you have enough volaudience. unteers to plan and execute the funTry to find volunteers from 3. Advertise extensively draiser. various walks of life so each person and early‌ can bring their own unique and Donors may not take immedi- valuable experience to the table.

Sunday, November 27, 2016

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Big Sky Senior Services Big Sky Senior Services is a LOCAL nonprofit helping the elderly in Yellowstone, Stillwater and Carbon County since 1977. During the 20152016 fiscal year, we were able to help an average of 299 senior citizens each month in the following ways: 1. Provided a total of 12,756 hours of homemaking, personal care, nursing services • Offered a sliding fee scale that allows seniors to pay for services based on their monthly income (we are the only in-home service that offers a sliding fee scale) • 75% of the seniors we serve are surviving on less than $1,000 per month and qualify for the sliding fee scale 2. Provided peace of mind and safety for seniors at risk for elder abuse and financial exploitation through 4,183 hours of representative payee and case management services 3. Transported 80 senior citizens to 171 medical appointments

4. Created opportunities for seniors who are social isolated to have a phone, visiting or lend a hand friend • 609 community volunteers provided 2,649 hours of service There continues to be an average of 15+ senior citizens on our waiting list each month needing our help to stay in their homes. Your support is needed and much appreciated. For more information or if you know a senior who needs our service, call us at 259-3111 or visit us at our website www.BigSkySeniorServices.org. Thank you for helping us help local seniors stay in their homes.

PEACE OF MIND Living 1000 miles away from mom and dad is difficult. Having Senior Helping Hands in their home on a regular basis is priceless.

Planned Parenthood of Montana Planned Parenthood of Montana (PPMT) is the largest family planning and reproductive health care provider in the state, serving thousands of Montanans each year. We work to ensure that all people have access to high quality, affordable health care and information about sexual health. We do this every day for everyone who walks through our door. We do

it without judgment of anyone’s circumstances. We care no matter who you are. We care no matter what your religion, sexuality or political persuasion. We believe that when we do this we make the world a little bit better. And when people are truly cared for they can make their homes, their communities and even the world a little bit better too.

Cancer screenings • Birth control • Prevention/treatment of STDs Breast health services • Male and female annual exams Transgender care • Information and health counseling

INDEPENDENCE & SAFETY Senior Helping Hands gives me a feeling of independence and safety so I can stay in my home.

QUALITY OF LIFE Without the help I receive through Big Sky Senior Services life would be much more difficult.

937 Grand Ave – Billings, MT 59102 www.BigSkySeniorServices.org • 406-259-3111

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Care. No matter what. FIVE HEALTH CENTER LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

BILLINGS (Heights) 406.869.5040 • (West) 406.656.9980 GREAT FALLS 406.454.3431 • HELENA 406.443.7676 • MISSOULA 406.728.5490 We work to ensure that all people have access to high quality, affordable health care and information about their sexual health. We do this every day for everyone who walks through our door.

Like Us On

We care. Deeply. Passionately. And with conviction.

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Teaching youth to be philanthropic METRO SERVICES

I‌ ntroducing children to charity early in their lives can lay a foundation of philanthropy that lasts a lifetime. The more kids witness charitable giving, the more likely they are to embrace charity as they grow up. Teaching children that it is better to give than to receive can be challenging, but it’s never too early to instill philanthropic feelings in a child. In order to help young children understand what it means to be charitable, try these ideas.

Open a dialogue‌

A study from the United Nations Foundation and the Women’s Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis found simply talking to children

Sunday, November 27, 2016

about giving increased the likelihood that children would give by 20 percent. Being specific makes a difference in getting the message out there. For example, rather than mentioning we have to give because it makes the world a better place, explain how donating food will help feed the less fortunate who cannot afford to feed themselves.

of money or substantial effort, and starting with something simple can make for a great introduction to charity. Begin with small projects kids can embrace and understand. Spend time going through clothes that no longer fit and make a trip to a charitable clothing drive or collection bin. Bring your child to a clothing store or toy store and pick out an item that can be donated to a less fortunate child. This way he Lead by example‌ Call the children over when you are doing or she can participate firsthand. something that pertains to philanthropy. Show them checks being written to help Help out neighbors‌ various nonprofits, or include them in outBeing charitable doesn’t have to mean spending tons of money or even putting ings that involve volunteer work. together material things. It can involve Look for easy ways to give‌ donating time to others who may need Charity doesn’t require a large amount assistance. Service-oriented projects,

such as raking leaves, baking cookies or taking in elderly neighbors’ garbage pails, are all types of charity. Children can become friendly and play with other children who may have a parent serving in the military or support someone who has special needs.

Get involved with pets‌

Animals and children seem a perfect match, and one charitable effort kids may embrace is helping animals. Bring food or pet supplies to a shelter or the local humane society. Allow children to interact with the animals they are helping. There are many ways to acclimate children to charitable living, and doing so may lay the foundation for a rewarding life.

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

The Family Tree Center Families in our community are struggling. The number of children placed in Foster Care in Yellowstone County continues to rise. Since 1985, The Family Tree Center remains the only agency whose sole mission is the PREVENTION of child abuse and neglect. What does Prevention mean? Maybe that means we open up our heart to a struggling family. Maybe, we support that struggling family through In Home Mentoring, Respite Childcare, and a Nurturing Parenting Class. Prevention services cost, on average, $1.00 to every $10.00 spent on intervention services. If we can prevent child abuse and neglect, it saves us as taxpayers, but more importantly, it saves those children for whom the human consequences cannot be comprehended. The Family Tree Center is committed to providing judgement free support to ALL families in our community, regardless of income or severity

of need. We recognize that parenting can be stressful and that children do not come with instructions. Most importantly, we believe that the families who participate in our programs are truly the ones changing the world and our community – one family at a time. We thank all of you who have heeded the call to action and continue to help us in our mission of prevention and to “stop the hurt before it happens”.

Thank you Billings Community for 31 years of supporting & strengthening families!

• Nurturing Parenting Classes • Respite Childcare • In-Home Mentoring • Montana Women’s Prison Parenting Program • Voices of Incarceration Re-entry & Reunification Support

Yellowstone Art Museum Art really can save lives. For many, it provides purpose, an antidote to the challenges of life, and an avenue for developing innate abilities. It can be a means of expression and understanding when all other methods fail. Ensure that all children have access to the uniquely human pursuit of art. Help the YAM continue its programs to inspire, teach, exhibit, and celebrate art. The YAM’s own educators engage children, help them tackle problemsolving challenges, and enrich their lives. Charitable gifts make possible the programs that powerfully impact lives in our community. Be part of it! Give the gift of a membership or volunteer your time. Consider direct support to the YAM’s education pro-

grams or impact the future with a gift to the Next Generation Endowment. Choose the area that excites you most, whether that’s support for a specific school art program or an exhibition that is the bedrock of fresh new education programs. Honor your family with a named fund. Contact Robyn G. Peterson at 406-256-6804 x 226, or director@artmuseum.org for details about annual fund giving, planned giving, or endowment gifts qualifying for the Montana state tax credit. For a membership or to volunteer, contact 406-256-6804 x 222 or membership@artmuseum.org. Explore it all at www.artmuseum.org or in person at 401 North 27th Street, downtown Billings.

Did you know?

The arts make people nicer! An education rich in the arts helps kids want to contribute to their communities, making them more altruistic, humane, and understanding. Your gift to the YAM helps us cultivate open and inquiring minds.

• Parents Evening Out • Family Fun Nights • University of Parenting Workshops • Prevention Education Presentations & Workshops

2520 5th Avenue South Billings, MT 59101 (406) 252-9799

Help us to continue to inspire creativity in our community... Give a museum membership to a friend or loved one, volunteer your time, or consider a gift this year to the YAM’s Next Generation Endowment Fund.

yellowstoneartmuseum familytreecenterbillings.org COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

406-256-6804 • 401 North 27th Street, Billings • www.artmuseum.org

Free parking

Handicap accessible

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Helping kids in your community METRO SERVICES

‌ oaching youth sports teams is one way C for adults to give back to the kids in their communities. People give back to their communities in various ways. Some support local charities by volunteering or making financial donations, while others may deliver meals to convalescents who cannot leave their homes. Helping kids is a popular way to give back to your community. And helping kids is not just for parents, as young adults and older adults with no children of their own or those whose children are fully grown can give back to kids in their communities in various ways.

run smoothly. Youth sports league coaches are not paid, so each coach is a volunteer. Inquire with your local government office about how to become a youth sports coach in your community. In many instances, no coaching experience is necessary to coach youth sports. However, prospective coaches will likely have to undergo training before they can patrol the sidelines. Such training may include everything from coaching pointers to emergency medical training and more.

ing opportunities. Successful professionals can share their professional expertise with high school or college students through community-sponsored programs. Amateur or professional musicians can offer lessons to youngsters interested in learning an instrument, while writers can teach kids about writing. Volunteer teaching opportunities may be easiest to find by speaking to local boys and girls clubs or schools that offer weekend or after school programs.

Teaching‌

Kids who are not involved in organized athletics may still enjoy exercise, which provides even more opportunities for adults to give back to the youth in their communities. For example, cycling enthusiasts can work

Teaching school is a full-time job, but not all teaching gigs are paid. Adults with knowledge to pass along to the next generaCoaching‌ Youth sports leagues rely on volunteers to tion may want to explore volunteer teach-

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Fitness‌

with local youth organizations to sponsor cycling groups for kids. If hiking or kayaking is your passion, look into organizing trips to nearby state parks where kids can hike and/ or kayak and learn to love the great outdoors.

Mentoring‌

Many young people benefit from the guidance of mentors. Mentoring can be done through an organization such as Big Brothers Big Sisters (www.bbbs.org) or through local school systems that connect professionals from certain fields with students interested in pursuing careers in those fields. Mentoring.org is a great resource for adults interested in mentoring who may not know how to get involved with helping kids in their communities.

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Billings Food Bank Happy Holidays

When the idea of food banking was developing over 30 years ago, it was a difficult time for most of the country. Agencies dealing with hunger issues at that time were able to provide assistance every 90 days. Some folks felt we should do more and set out to make some changes. The churches (only 4 in the beginning), started Food Bank Sunday by setting the first Sunday of each month to gather food and funds for the Billings Food Bank’s effort to not only supply assistance to agencies already involved, but make an organized effort to both determine needs and coordinate efforts to involve an entire community in addressing them. The first year generated an estimated 20,000# of food. By the end of the first year, 29 additional churches had joined the effort. The first few years were a ‘ happening without a home.’ The past 30 years have brought many changes to the Billings Food Bank. It now gathers millions of pounds of food each year, serves clients directly and is able to have reserves for unexpected needs. We have a facility that houses offices, warehouse and distribution space, large food sorting area, Fortin Café and Gift Shop (open to the public), and Fortin Culinary Center on the second floor which provides a 12 week course in work skills for those wanting to work in the food industry and have a 99% success rate in finding employment for our graduates. Here our last year’s numbers:  165,273 Food Boxes provided *note we also maintain a baby and pet food pantry  78,259 Food boxes provided through Senior Nutrition Program (in 11 counties)  24,271 Food Boxes provided through voucher system  271,850 Meals, sack lunches, backpacks provided through the Fortin Culinary Center  7,827 Holiday food services  106,100 Meals provided to the Boys and Girls Club Some things have not changed. Many folks are still facing difficult times. What has changed is our collective ability to help. THANK YOU! IT IS THROUGH YOUR UNDERSTANDING AND SUPPORT WE ARE ABLE TO CONTINUE TO BE THERE. You need to know that no one is ever turned away for lack of food. With your help we are continually fulfilling our mission to feed the hungry. As we prepare to share Thanksgiving and Christmas with all those coming to us for help, it is really important to again thank all of you who make this possible. May you and yours enjoy the best of what this Season represents. Warm regards, Sheryle

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016

Billings Food Bank activities

Here are a few of the activities that occur at the Billings Food Bank

Senior nutrition program The Billings Food Bank provides much needed food boxes for low income seniors struggling to meet basic food requirements. Many senior citizens in our community would go hungry without the support of the Billings Food Bank.

Fortin Culinary Center job training Our program is based on the curriculum of a very successful program in Washington called, DC Central Kitchens. Robert Egger developed those classes and has provided assistance with the Billings Food Bank program. The 12-week course is held in the Fortin Culinary Center and includes 10 weeks in the kitchen and a 2-week externship in the community with actual food service. 99% of graduates are placed in jobs. For most, it is life changing.

Fortin Café/gift shop The Fortin Café serves breakfast and lunch to customers Monday through Friday. Food is prepared in the Fortin Culinary Center and is part of the job training program. All proceeds benefit the Culinary Job Training Course. We call it “Eating for a Cause.” The gift shop offers an opportunity to those that wish to market arts and crafts. People shopping in the Billings Food Bank gift shop not only support the food bank— they also support the community. Most of the items in the gift shop are made with love by both adults and kids in the Billings and surrounding community, and since it is stocked by local artists and craftsmen you never know exactly what you will find.

Fortin Culinary Center commercial kitchen rental The kitchens were designed to provide classroom issues: Doing all within our power to address root space and commercial space and equipment for entre- causes of hunger and encourage economic growth. preneurs wishing to enter the specialty food industry. We are always looking for volunteers! Please call us if you are interested in getting involved. We are planMeeting rooms/banquet rental ning our 2017 Mardi Gras Montana fundraiser and Our facility will host groups from a few people to need people to assist us. Twelfth Night celebration several hundred. It is perfect for business meetings, will be January 6, 2017 at the Food Bank; Mardi Gras is rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions. Please call February 28, 2017 at the Holiday Inn Grand Montana. for details. Just as a reminder, Billings Food Bank has a qualiThe new facility is so much more than the 54,000 fied endowment and has a four star rating by Charity square feet of dry, refrigerated and frozen storage, Navigator. For more information on the Billings Food distribution and offices. It was designed to carry out Bank or any of our programs and services, please call our mission: To assume a leadership role in feeding the Sheryle Shandy at (406) 259-2856. hungry by recovering, securing, purchasing, and dePLAN YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NOW! livering quality food and other products, and playing a strong education and advocacy role on hunger-related BOOK YOUR MEETING SPACE ALSO!

Sunday, November 27, 2016

COMMUNITY OF GIVING 2016