A story of hope
In a remarkable celebration of community spirit and unwavering dedication, the Boys and Girls Club of Glacier Country proudly marks its 25th year of enriching young lives in the Flathead Valley. This landmark year is heralded by a transformative move to a new facility in Columbia Falls, a beacon of progress and hope for countless youth and their families in the area.
Nestled in the heart of the community, our Columbia Falls program has long been a sanctuary of growth and opportunity for the area’s youth. Yet, our mission to serve every child was constrained by the limits of our physical space. Today, we stand on the threshold of a new era, propelled into the future by the incredible generosity of Mick and Wendy Ruis and a coalition of philanthropic partners. Their donation of the former Glacier Gateway School Building allows us to expand our reach and dreams, offering our services in a space six times larger than before, for the symbolic lease of $1 per year.
This expansion is not just about square footage; it’s a testament to what is possible when a community unites for its most precious asset—its children. The new facility, earmarked for extensive repurposing to meet the diverse needs of our programs, represents a significant reduction in operating costs. This financial efficiency translates directly into enhanced accessibility for our youth, particularly those hailing from families striving to make ends meet.
The ambitious repurposing project is fueled by a collaborative financial effort, including a $10,000 seed donation from Freedom Bank and a tripling match from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines. These funds, augmented by generous contributions from members of our community, will breathe new life into the second floor and portions of the first floor of the building, including a gymnasium for recreational and sports activities.
Our journey to this moment has been driven by a shared belief in the power of community and the transformative impact of providing our youth with opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. Many of the children we serve come from families living at or below the poverty line. For these children, the Boys and Girls Club of Glacier Country is more than a place—it’s a lifeline, offering access to essential skills and experiences that might otherwise remain out of reach.
Moreover, our programs extend beyond the children, offering their families the peace of mind that comes from knowing their children are in a safe, supportive environment after school. This assurance empowers parents to pursue their careers and build a stronger future for their families.
As we step into this new chapter, we are reminded that our story is not just one of expansion and opportunity; it is a story of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of community support. We invite the entire Flathead Valley to join us in celebrating this milestone and to continue supporting the Boys and Girls Club of Glacier Country as we embark on this exciting new journey together.
For further information, to donate, or to learn how you can be a part of our story, please visit our website at www.bgcglacier.org or contact the Boys and Girls Club office at (406) 892-2697. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our youth, shaping a brighter future for all in the Flathead Valley.
Don Bennett, President of Freedom Bank and the staff at the Glacier Country Boys and Girls Club