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Great Fish Community Challenge begins August 11! Learn More

August 5, 2026

Impact Story: Meet the New Faces of the Great Fish Community Challenge!

From youth education and athletics to music and the performing arts, these six organizations are expanding opportunities for community members in exciting new ways.

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One of the most exciting parts of the Great Fish Community Challenge is welcoming new organizations into a community of nonprofits working together to strengthen the Flathead Valley. This year, six organizations are participating in the Challenge for the first time, bringing new ideas, expanded opportunities, and even more ways for donors to make a difference close to home.

Together, these organizations reflect the many ways a thriving community is built. From early childhood education and youth development to the arts, athletics, and music, each is creating opportunities that enrich lives and strengthen the place we call home.

For young artists, Bear Grass Performing Arts is expanding access to high-quality performing arts education through the Flathead Valley Youth Chorus, helping students build confidence, creativity, and connection through music.

At Columbia Falls Academic Foundation, gifts will support innovative learning opportunities at Columbia Falls High School and Junior High, funding projects and programs that go beyond what traditional school budgets can provide.

Girls on the Run Western Montana combines physical activity with life skills and community service, helping girls in grades 3–5 develop confidence, resilience, and healthy habits.

In the pool, Glacier Aquatic Club is creating opportunities for swimmers of all ages and abilities to develop athletic skills while building confidence, discipline, and sportsmanship.

For the youngest members of our community, Whitefish Community School provides a nurturing early learning environment where children can grow, explore, and develop a lifelong love of learning. 

Music lovers will also have a new opportunity to give through the Whitefish Songwriter Festival, whose annual festival brings nationally recognized songwriters to the Flathead Valley for performances, workshops, and storytelling that celebrate the craft of songwriting while enriching our community's cultural and economic vitality.

These six organizations join 83 returning nonprofits participating in this year's Great Fish Community Challenge, bringing the total to 89 nonprofits working together to improve life across the Flathead Valley.

As a Circle of Giving member, your generosity helps make this possible. Your support of the Great Fish Match Fund encourages philanthropy across our community while helping both longtime nonprofit partners and first-time participants grow their impact.

Whether you choose to support one of these new organizations or a nonprofit you've championed for years, every gift during the Great Fish Community Challenge strengthens the network of organizations serving our community.

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