This March, the Montana Community Foundation issued nearly $6.4 million in annual endowment distributions to more than 870 nonprofits around the state, expanding the list of donors seeing their visions come to life and boosting the power of nonprofits to fulfill their missions and strengthen the places we all call home.

The 2025 total of $6.4 million marks an increase from $5.6 million in 2024 and $3.5 million five years ago, reflecting significant growth and expanded support for communities statewide. Payments this year reached 45 of Montana’s counties and more than 75 cities and towns.

Endowments are powerful because they are built to endure. The gifts that created them were made with long horizons in mind: invested carefully, grown responsibly, and distributed intentionally. Year after year, they provide steady support that organizations can count on. Behind every payment is a story — students receiving scholarships, families accessing resources, arts programs thriving, and rural services continuing without interruption.

“Distribution season is busy, but it’s also a reminder that philanthropy isn’t just about giving in the moment,” said Kacie Tollefson, Executive Vice President, Finance & Administration for Montana Community Foundation. “It’s about building something that lasts. Together with our donors and nonprofit partners, we are strengthening Montana not only for today, but for generations to come.”