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And the award goes to

During this year's Annual Campaign Kickoff, we had the privilege of listening to influential community leaders, including Robert J. Watson, EdD, Executive Director of the School Administrators of Montana, and Montana's First Lady, Susan Gianforte. They emphasized the critical significance of early learning and the success of our youth. GGUW's leadership also took the opportunity to reflect on our profound impact over the past year within the community and our collective vision for the future. We also had the privilege of presenting our annual awards, acknowledging the outstanding individuals and organizations who are making a profound difference in our community. 

Thank you to everyone who helped to kick-off this year's annual campaign. Together, we are united in purpose, and with your continued support, we can strive for a brighter and more inclusive future for all. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey towards creating lasting change and improving the lives of those in need. Your involvement is invaluable, and we are immensely grateful for your partnership.  

Please join us in congratulating this year's award winners. 

 

 

 

 

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Mountain HotTub

Corporate Partner of the Year | Mountain Hot Tub  

The Corporate Partner of the Year award recognizes the exceptional partnership and support that is given not just by the corporation but through its culture. This company’s support helps further our mission. The corporate partner leadership leads by example, drives positive change and works to create lasting impact for a stronger more resilient community.  

We have so many great corporate partners, but there is one company that supported us in so many ways through their corporate gifts and sponsoring every one of our events this year. There is a company culture of giving back, not just to our United Way but to other community organizations. You will see their logo sponsoring so many events and you will see their products at events like the Polar Plunge, Bridger Ridge Run and Bozeman Ice Festival. They care so much about our community, and they look for creative ways they can be supportive and connect.   

We are so happy to present the Corporate Partner of the Year Award to Kelly and Shirley King, owners of Mountain Hot Tub.   

 

 

 

 

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Bozeman Health

Community Partner of the Year  | Bozeman Health  

The Community Partner of the Year Award is for a partner that has their own mission to create impact but understands the value of collaboration and partnership to build a stronger community. This award demonstrates that through a shared vision, together we can address critical issues to advocate and respond for those who need us most.    

We meet quarterly with this partner to discuss emerging needs in the community, how each of our entities can contribute and who else needs to be at the table. We sit in many coalition meetings together. They ask tough questions. They are always a phone call or an email away to answer ours. They truly understand the value of collaboration.   

We are appreciative of both their financial support and their partnership in tackling issues as they arise. A special thank you to Denise Juneau, Dr. Laurie Walker and  Dr. Kathryn Bertany, CEO of Bozeman Health.   

 

 

 

 

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LEANNE GROTE

kidsLINK Spirit Award | LeAnne Grote  

The kidsLINK Spirit Award goes to a KidsLINK staff person or partner who exemplifies the spirit of youth success. They go above and beyond to ensure we serve our kids in a fun, enriching environment. They are passionate, creative, nurturing and fully embody what it means to live united. They are innovative, patient and dedicated to the exploration of ideas for children to expand their knowledge.    

We hear nothing but good things from co-workers and kidsLINK parents. We hear about how smooth her program runs and the creative activities she plans. I mean who fries donuts with kids? Our Youth Success Director, Amy had this to say: "She goes above and beyond with her pre-work. She always has engaging activities, she has built lasting relationships with her parents, and is a shining example of why afterschool coordinators are so important in kids' lives."  

We are pleased to present the kidsLINK Spirit Award to LeAnne Grote, the kidsLink Program Coordinator at Meadowlark Elementary.  

 

 

 

 

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George

Volunteer Spirit Award | George Haddenhorst  

The Volunteer Spirit Award recognizes a person for their outstanding dedication, unwavering commitment, and selfless contributions as a volunteer. This is to recognize them for their tireless efforts to enrich Greater Gallatin United Way and their generous commitment to build a stronger community.  

We are pleased to present the kidsLINK Spirit Award to George Haddenhorst.  

 

 

 

 

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Enterprise Holdings

Live United Award  | Enterprise Holding – Frontier 63  

Our Live United Award goes to an individual or entity for consistently demonstrating the philosophy of Living United. They have the ability to bring people together, regardless of their position, background or circumstances, to demonstrate unity. They ignite change and kindness and collaboration. They volunteer, invest and advocate for a better tomorrow.   

This year's winner has a company culture rooted in philanthropy. It begins with their founding family and continues down to every market they are in. This amazing group hosts an energetic workplace campaign in terms of participation as well as the amount raised. The company matches donations and this year we also received a grant applied for by one of their employees. And if that is not enough, 106 employees volunteered in our community this year. GGUW coordinates volunteer projects that are part of their new hire monthly training as well as quarterly management training. Philanthropy is part of their culture from day one. Their actions serve as an inspiring example of how a company can not only succeed but also make a lasting, positive impact on the community it serves.  

Three years ago when we asked if they would help with a food drive to support families at Whittier over the Christmas break, they said “Give us the list. We’ll take care of it all.” And they have done this every year since. They truly embrace, Living United.  

We are thrilled to present the Live United Award to Enterprise Holdings – Frontier 63.  We extend our heartfelt gratitude for embodying the spirit of Living United and your role in bringing about a positive transformation in our community.