Valley County Community Foundations Receives 'Outstanding Foundation' Award

The Montana Community Foundation (MCF) is delighted to celebrate the recognition of the Valley County Community Foundation (VCCF) with the "Outstanding Foundation Award," a prestigious accolade presented by the Montana Association of Fundraising Professionals (MTAFP). This significant award was granted in Bozeman on Oct. 26, 2023, in acknowledgment of VCCF's outstanding commitment to philanthropy and their significant contributions to the well-being of Valley County.

"As Chair of the Valley County Community Foundation, we are very honored to receive this award," stated Doris Leader. "We not only provide grants to local nonprofits and local governments, we also have three scholarship awards. We care about Valley County and proud of the work we can do."

VCCF Board Member Maggan Walstad echoed this sentiment by stating, "We are deeply honored to receive this award and to be recognized for our achievements as a Community Foundation in Valley County." Wakstad accepted the award on behalf of the Foundation during MTAFP.

Since its establishment in 1998, the Valley County Community Foundation has stood as a paragon of philanthropic leadership in the region, guided by its mission to "educate the community about the importance of philanthropy and to fund projects in five pivotal areas of life within Valley County." As an all-volunteer organization, VCCF has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to shaping a brighter future for the community, with a portfolio comprising six endowments holding assets totaling $1.3 million.

Over the years, VCCF has distributed an impressive $331,000 in grants that have benefitted 165 vital projects, in addition to offering $79,000 in scholarships, empowering the youth of Valley County to pursue their dreams and educational aspirations. In 2023, VCCF provided $38,454 in grants to organizations across the county, including those in Glasgow, Fort Peck, and Opheim.

The Valley County Community Foundation's commitment to community well-being extends beyond traditional grant-making. Through their proactive partnership with the Montana Community Foundation (MCF), VCCF has demonstrated a keen sense for seeking new funding opportunities. Notably, they were awarded a $15,000 leadership grant from MCF, which played a pivotal role in the establishment of an indoor skating rink in Glasgow. This facility not only provides valuable recreational space for local residents but also serves as an economic driver in the community, attracting hockey teams from both sides of the border.

"The Outstanding Foundation Award, presented by the Montana Association of Fundraising Professionals, is a testament to the remarkable dedication and unwavering commitment of the Valley County Community Foundation," noted, CEO, Mary Rutherford at the Montana Community Foundation. "For more than two decades, VCCF has been a cornerstone in Valley County, supporting projects that enhance the quality of life for our residents and drive economic growth. This recognition underscores the dedication of VCCF's board members, the generosity of their donors, and the support of the Valley County community. We are deeply honored to celebrate this achievement and look forward to VCCF's continued mission of making Valley County an even better place to live, work, and thrive."

The Montana Community Foundation is immensely proud to recognize the Valley County Community Foundation with the Outstanding Foundation Award, as presented by the Montana Association of Fundraising Professionals. This award underscores VCCF's exceptional dedication to philanthropy and its significant impact on the Valley County community.

For more information about the Valley County Community Foundation, please visit their website at valleycountycf.net or contact them at 406-526-3245.