By Fischer Genau EDITORIAL INTERN
In its 2024 spring grant cycle, the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation awarded $1,668,500 in grants to 33 nonprofit organizations and qualifying government entities, such as schools and libraries, that serve communities in the greater Big Sky region.
“We are honored to support the great work of local organizations in the Big Sky, Bozeman and greater southwest Montana region that are working to provide food security, housing stability, conservation of natural resources, and accessible mental health care,” Ciara Wolfe, YCCF’s vice president of philanthropy, said in a news release.
YCCF’s spring grant funding focused on five areas: livability, health and wellness, environment, arts and culture, and education. Specific grants will help provide access to affordable housing, no- or low-cost mental health care and high-quality childcare.
Recipients include the Morningstar Learning Center, Big Sky’s only full-time daycare, and Montana State University’s Center for Mental Health Research and Recovery, which is creating an online program that allows future counselors to serve rural communities while they get their license.
“This funding significantly aids in supporting mental health of rural youth in Montana as we work to get our online school program up and running,” said Dr. Katey Franklin and Dr. Rebecca Koltz of MSU’s department of counseling. “We are truly thankful.”
The grants will support Big Sky youth by providing scholarships, sports and outdoor equipment for summer camps, mentoring and outdoor adventure experiences. They’ll also fund workforce development initiatives for snow sports instructors, ski patrollers and behavioral health workers.
“We congratulate the grant recipients and look forward to partnering with them to serve our neighbors,” Wolfe said.
A full list of spring grant recipients is available.
Since 2010, YCCF has awarded more than $34 million to nonprofits and other groups servicing the greater Big Sky region, with the support of Yellowstone Club Members and guests, and local community members.
