One of the most meaningful parts of our work is seeing how Community Grants come to life across the Flathead Valley. Funded by Whitefish Community Foundation’s Circle of Giving, a dedicated group of donors who contribute $5,000 or more annually, these grants support local nonprofits and the broader mission of the Foundation.
Established in 2000, the Community Grant program is our longest-running initiative and has awarded nearly $3.5 million to local nonprofits to date. Each year, organizations may apply for funding to support programs and projects that benefit residents of Flathead County, as well as health and human service programs serving Lincoln and Glacier counties.
This month, we’re highlighting two inspiring stories that show the power of music education to shape student confidence, creativity, and community connection.
In Columbia Falls, the Columbia Falls Academic Foundation received a $15,000 Community Grant in 2025 to support new musical instruments and equipment at Columbia Falls Junior High. Among the upgrades was the replacement of a bari saxophone that dated back to 1936 - 90 years old!
“This amazing new instrument raises the quality and experience of the whole band when it is added to the ensemble,” they shared. “One of the most important outcomes of receiving this grant is enabling faculty to focus on instruction and music rather than how to repair an instrument.”
Across the valley, the Whitefish Education Foundation also received a $15,000 Community Grant to replace aging band and orchestra instruments at Whitefish Middle and High Schools.
“Once forced to practice on 60-year-old tubas and baritone horns with stiff valves, air leaks and a musty odor, the students now get to use horns that work smoothly and have a beautiful sound,” they shared. “With the new instruments in hand, a stronger sense of confidence can be felt in daily rehearsals. Students know that not only is our music program valued in our community, but THEY are valued as well.”
These stories are a powerful reminder that investments in education go far beyond the classroom. By supporting music programs, we’re helping students find their voice, build confidence, and experience the joy of creating something together.
Thank you to our Circle of Giving donors for making these moments possible and for helping students across the Flathead Valley strike the right chord.
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