Montana’s nonprofit and philanthropic communities recently lost a giant with the passing of Michael Schechtman on August 10, 2024. Known for his unwavering commitment to social justice and his leadership in Helena’s nonprofit sector, Mike left an indelible mark on Montana's philanthropic landscape.

During his lifetime, Mike was a visionary in Montana philanthropy, helping to shape the future of many organizations across the state. As Executive Director of the Big Sky Institute for the Advancement of Nonprofits (BSI), Mike was instrumental in identifying the "philanthropic divide" in Montana, advocating for more equitable support across communities. Bill Pratt, a founding board member of BSI and its Program Director from 2006 to 2015, recalls Mike’s drive to support Montana’s nonprofit sector. 

"Mike was always ‘sniffing the air’ for new development opportunities to build the capacity of Montana’s nonprofits and philanthropy. As a visionary leader, he pushed his colleagues to explore new horizons, constantly expanding the impact of their work," Bill shared.

One of Mike’s most recent efforts was the establishment of the Big Sky Institute Sustainability Fund, a testament to his belief in the power of nonprofits to transform lives. This fund will provide grants to Helena-area nonprofits, helping them to improve their financial health and ensure sustainability. His passing, while finalizing work on this fund, is a bittersweet reminder of his lifelong dedication to the cause.

Joel Maes, a close colleague, expressed the impact of Mike's loss: 

"Mike was known for his kindness, his calm and thoughtful response to conflict, and his strong commitment to social justice. Donations to the Sustainability Fund will honor his life’s work in a way that would make him proud."

Beyond his work at BSI, Mike mentored many, always willing to share his knowledge and passion for philanthropy. Steffi Siegel, another friend and colleague, reflects on his generosity:

"Mike Schechtman was an amazing man. He always displayed sincerity, integrity, and a strong sense of doing what was right. His support of the nonprofit sector in Montana was unmatched, and I will deeply miss his friendship."

To ensure that Mike’s legacy continues to shape Montana philanthropy for generations, he established an endowment at MCF last fall. This endowment will continue to honor philanthropy in Helena, ensuring that the causes Mike cared about will receive ongoing support. 

For those looking to honor Mike’s memory, contributions to the Big Sky Institute Sustainability Fund will celebrate his life's work and sustain the philanthropic mission he championed so passionately. The Big Sky Institute Sustainability Fund was established at MCF with funds from the Big Sky Institute for the Advancement of Nonprofits upon the organization’s closing in 2023.

Mike Schechtman was a pillar of the Helena nonprofit community, and his contributions will continue to resonate across Montana’s philanthropic landscape for years to come.