84 Students Awarded Youth Serve Montana Scholarship
Students earn $1,000 for college by giving 100 volunteer hours

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service, Montana Campus Compact, and Student Assistance Foundation announced today that 84 Montana high school seniors from 59 schools are receiving $1,000 Youth Serve Montana Scholarships. These scholarships recognize each student’s commitment to volunteering over 100 hours in the last year.

“These young volunteers are an asset to Montana,” said Governor Steve Bullock. “I am proud to recognize their efforts and I look forward to seeing how they continue to serve the state as they further their education at Montana’s colleges and universities.”

Visit serve.mt.gov for the full list of scholarship recipients.

These $1,000 Youth Serve Montana Scholarships are for continued education at one of Montana Campus Compact’s two-year, four-year, public, tribal, private, or community colleges and universities.

“MSU and all of the Campus Compact institutions place a high value on service to community, and we are excited to grant these awards to our future leaders of Montana,” said Dr. Waded Cruzado, President, Montana State University and Board Member, Montana Campus Compact.

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants needed to volunteer at least 100 hours in the last year. Many students volunteered more than this and in total, the 84 scholarship recipients contributed 14,396 volunteer hours to Montana. Students helped their communities by mentoring their younger peers, coaching sports teams, serving as classroom assistants, supporting Special Olympics, serving as summer camp counselors, helping with community emergency responses after disasters, organizing park clean-ups, participating in 4-H service events, and so much more.

The 2013 Youth Serve Montana Scholarships have been made possible through support from the Governor’s Office of Community Service, Montana Campus Compact, and Student Assistance Foundation.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness. Visit serve.mt.gov.

Montana Campus Compact is Montana’s largest higher-education network and works to improve community life by educating students for civic and social responsibility. Visit www.mtcompact.org.

Student Assistance Foundation is a nonprofit Montana corporation that provides students with knowledge and tools to pursue and fund their postsecondary education. Funds generated by SAF are returned to Montanans in the form of education grants, scholarships and public benefit programs. Visit www.safmt.org or www.SmartAboutCollege.org.

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Kids volunteer for Global Youth Service Day
April 26-28, 2013

HELENA, MT- Youth across Montana will serve their communities this weekend as part of Global Youth Service Day, the largest and longest running service event in the world, and the only major service event dedicated to youth. Through support from the Governor’s Office of Community Service and YSA, more than 600 Montana youth will join millions of others around the globe in celebrating Global Youth Service Day (GYSD).

The public is encouraged to volunteer with the children and youth in their community. Projects include camp repairs, community garden workdays, park clean-up and painting endeavors, recycling events, and artistic activities.

For a list of Global Youth Service Day projects in Montana, visit serve.mt.gov. To view the official Global Youth Service Day map visit www.gysd.org.

Global Youth Service Day projects are supported by a variety of organizations that involve youth, including the Boy Scouts, community gardens, AmeriCorps programs, 4-H clubs, Boys and Girls clubs, afterschool programs, United Ways, Little League clubs, the YMCA, and community nonprofits.

Global Youth Service Day is an annual campaign that celebrates and mobilizes the millions of children and youth who improve their communities each day of the year through service and service-learning. Now in its 25th year, GYSD is celebrated in more than 100 countries.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service was selected to serve as a Global Youth Service Day Lead Agency by YSA (Youth Service America), the founder and chief convener of GYSD. In total, an estimated 630 young people in Montana will participate in Global Youth Service Day activities. State Farm is the presenting sponsor of Global Youth Service Day in the United States.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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AmeriCorps Members Gather for Service Blitz
Wednesday, February 27, 2013

AmeriCorps members from across Montana will be joining together in Helena today, Wednesday, February 27 for service projects throughout the community. More than 100 AmeriCorps members will be participating in one of fifteen projects that benefit the community. This massive service project gathering kicks off the fourth annual ServeMontana Symposium, a two-day conference focused on providing training and resources for national service programs, nonprofits, and volunteer organizations.

Who: AmeriCorps National Service Members

What: Helena-wide Service Projects

When: TODAY, February 27, 2013 from 2:00-5:00pm

Where: 15 locations around town, see  project location details, kick-off at the Myrna Loy Center at 2pm

AmeriCorps is a national service program that engages more than 1,200 dedicated citizens in intensive service each year at more than 130 locations including nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across Montana. AmeriCorps is a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency that engages more than five million Americans in service through its AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, Social Innovation Fund, and other programs.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Montanans Honored for Outstanding Volunteer Service

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Lt. Governor John Walsh to Present Awards

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service and the Montana Commission on Community Service announced today the 2013 recipients of the ServeMontana and ReadyMontana Awards. Theses annual awards are presented to outstanding community volunteers and organizations for their service to Montana.

The awards will be presented at the ServeMontana Symposium luncheon ceremony on Thursday, February 28 at the Great Northern Hotel ballroom in Helena at 11:30am.

“I look forward to recognizing these dedicated Montanans,” said Lt. Governor John Walsh. “It’s the passion and commitment of volunteers that make our state great.”

Lt. Governor John Walsh will first present three ReadyMontana Awards to outstanding community volunteers and organizations in the areas of disaster services, emergency preparedness and emergency response. Following will be the presentation of eight ServeMontana Awards to outstanding community volunteers and organizations in the social impact areas of education, healthy futures, environmental stewardship, economic opportunity and veterans & military families. See the award recipient list below.

“We are pleased to honor these inspirational individuals and organizations that represent the true spirit of civic engagement.” said Kim Miske, Chair of the Montana Commission on Community Service.

Thursday’s awards ceremony luncheon will be part of the 2013 ServeMontana Symposium, a two-day conference focused on providing training and resources for national service programs, nonprofits, and organizations who use and support volunteers.

2013 ReadyMontana Award Recipients (in alphabetical order by location):

• Ashland, MT: Pat Dennis- Fire Chief of the St. Labre Volunteer Fire Department
• Billings, MT: Yellowstone County Disaster Action Team, American Red Cross of Montana- volunteer disaster response group
• Glasgow, MT: Robert Hanson- Fire Chief of the Long Run Volunteer Fire Department

2013 ServeMontana Award Recipients (in alphabetical order by location):

• Billings, MT: Laura Kennedy-volunteer committed to youth and charities
• Bozeman, MT: Scott Carpenter- mentor with Thrive’s Child Advancement Project
• Butte, MT: Christopher Doyle- AmeriCorps Alumni and volunteer with the Clark Fork Watershed Education Program
• Corvallis, MT: Wendi Fawns- community educator and director of Community Cooking Connections
• Lewistown, MT: Recycle Our Waste Lewistown- volunteer group hosting monthly plastic recycling drives
• Libby, MT: Roland Childs- lifelong volunteer with the VFW Post 1548
• Miles City, MT: Miles City Soup Kitchen- volunteer-run soup kitchen
• Missoula, MT: Danielle Gornick- youth founder of the “Sleep Tight Missoula” project

For more information about the awards and for brief bios of the recipients, please visit serve.mt.gov.

The 2013 ServeMontana Symposium is sponsored by the Washington Corporation, Glacier Bank, Youth Service America, the Office of Public Instruction, the Department of Agriculture, NorthWestern Energy and the Corporation for National and Community Service. Learn more and download the agenda at serve.mt.gov.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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2013 Youth Serve Montana Scholarship
Available to High School Seniors

Students earn $1,000 for college by giving 100 volunteer hours

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service, Montana Campus Compact, and Student Assistance Foundation announced today that the 2013 Youth Serve Montana Scholarship is now available for up to 100 Montana high school seniors. It is the eighth year for this exciting scholarship opportunity aimed at students dedicated to volunteering.

The Youth Serve Montana Scholarship rewards students who have volunteered over 100 hours in the last year and who want to further their education in state. This year, 100 high school seniors will receive $1,000 toward continued education at one of Montana Campus Compact’s public, tribal, private, or community colleges and universities.

“This is a great opportunity to recognize students who are committed to service and to giving back to their communities,” said Governor Steve Bullock. “The Youth Serve Montana Scholarships honor these students’ investment in our state and help them continue their education here in Montana.”

The Youth Serve Montana Scholarship application form, guidelines, and FAQs can be found online at serve.mt.gov. Completed applications, proof of volunteer hours, confirmation of a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and enrollment in a Montana post-secondary institution must be submitted to the Governor’s Office of Community Service by April 15, 2013.

The 2013 Youth Serve Montana Scholarships have been made possible through support from the Governor’s Office of Community Service, Montana Campus Compact, and Student Assistance Foundation.

“It is Student Assistance Foundation’s honor to support the Youth Serve Montana Scholarship program,” said Kelly Cresswell, vice president of Foundation Activities. “Commitment on the part of Montana students to giving back to their communities, combined with a desire to attain higher education, provides a strong foundation going forward for our state, and generations to come.”

"My colleagues and I are proud to recognize civically engaged students,” said Jane Karas, Ph.D., chair of Montana Campus Compact and president of Flathead Valley Community College. "These scholarships honor their commitment to their communities while helping them achieve their educational goals."

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness. Visit serve.mt.gov.

Montana Campus Compact is Montana’s largest higher-education network and works to improve community life by educating students for civic and social responsibility. Visit www.mtcompact.org.

Student Assistance Foundation is a nonprofit Montana corporation that provides students with knowledge and tools to pursue and fund their postsecondary education. Funds generated by SAF are returned to Montanans in the form of education grants, scholarships and public benefit programs - to date totaling more than $25 million. Visit www.safmt.org or www.SmartAboutCollege.org.

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ServeMontana Symposium

Volunteer Focused Conference February 28 and March 1, 2013

HELENA, MT- Registration is now open for the ServeMontana Symposium on February 28 and March 1 at the Great Northern Hotel in Helena, MT. This affordable conference, offered by the Governor’s Office of Community Service, focuses on providing training and resources for national service programs, nonprofits, and organizations that use and support volunteers.

“The ServeMontana Symposium is an excellent training and networking opportunity for volunteers and the organizations that support them,” said Tony Dean, Interim Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “This year’s theme, Service through the Ages, will highlight both the history of service and how all generations are making a difference by volunteering their time and talents.”

What: ServeMontana Symposium: Service through the Ages
When: Thursday, February 28 and Friday, March 1, 2013
Where: Great Northern Hotel, Helena, MT
Who: Nonprofits, community organizations, national service members and volunteers
Cost: $100 before 2/13/13 or $125 after 2/13/13
Register: Registration available online at serve.mt.gov

Steve Culbertson, President and CEO of YSA (Youth Service America), will be the keynote speaker on Thursday, February 28, 2013. YSA is an international nonprofit organization that improves communities by increasing the number and the diversity of young people, ages 5-25, serving in substantive roles. For two years in a row, the Nonprofit Times named him to its list of "The 50 most powerful and influential leaders" in the sector, saying, "Culbertson has helped to position volunteering and young people as an issue and a national priority."

The conference will also highlight volunteers from across the state with the ServeMontana Awards and ReadyMontana Awards presented at the awards luncheon on Thursday, February 28 at 11:30am. Registration for the awards luncheon is available for $20.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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MLK Day Celebrates Citizenship and Service

Montanans Volunteer in Honor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today that National Service Members and volunteers across Montana will honor Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy with service this January. AmeriCorps members and Senior Corps volunteers have organized MLK Day service opportunities in 18 communities throughout the state.

Governor Steve Bullock and Lt. Governor John Walsh will join the Read for Peace Project that places volunteers in schools to read books and create art about the life and work of Dr. King. On Thursday, January 17, at 8:45am, Governor Bullock will be reading to students at Kessler Elementary and Lt. Governor Walsh will be reading to students at Smith Elementary.

“Dr. King believed in the power of service and communities coming together to create lasting change,” said Governor Steve Bullock. “John and I look forward to helping teach the next generation about the power of service.”

Along with the Read for Peace Project, AmeriCorps members and Senior Corps volunteers have organized food drives, diversity and volunteer fairs, weatherization events, and emergency preparedness projects. Download a list of service events organized by these National Service members.

This year’s commemoration of the MLK Day of Service coincides with the 57th Presidential Inauguration, which will feature a special National Day of Service on January 19 with service projects organized in all 50 states. In Montana, projects are currently scheduled in Belgrade, Billings, Bozeman, Columbia Falls, Dillon, Kalispell, and Missoula. To learn more visit www.2013pic.org/service.

In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service. The Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency, leads the annual MLK Day of Service, working with the King Center in Atlanta and thousands of nonprofit groups, faith-based organizations, and schools and businesses nationwide. For further information about the MLK Day of Service visit MLKday.gov.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Public Asked to Nominate Exceptional Volunteers

Annual Awards Recognize Volunteer Service in Montana

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service and the Montana Commission on Community Service are accepting nominations for the 2013 ServeMontana Awards and ReadyMontana Awards. Presented in February, these annual awards recognize outstanding Montana individuals, organizations and national service members committed to community and volunteer service.

“Montanans truly are making a difference in their hometowns by volunteering their time and skills,” said Kim Miske, Chair of the Montana Commission on Community Service. “We ask the public to share their stories and help us recognize these inspiring volunteers.”

• The ServeMontana Awards are for service and volunteer work in the areas of education, healthy futures, environmental stewardship, veterans & military families, and economic opportunity.
• The ReadyMontana Awards are for service specifically related to disaster services, emergency preparedness and emergency response.

The nomination form is available to download at serve.mt.gov.

All nominations for the 2013 awards must be to the Governor’s Office of Community Service by December 18, 2012.

The Montana Commission on Community Service will present the awards during the fourth annual ServeMontana Symposium on February 28, 2013 in Helena. There will be more than one award presented in each category.

The public is encouraged to nominate individuals of all ages and backgrounds, organizations, and groups. All services must be performed in Montana and individual nominees may not be salaried for the services performed.

The Governor-appointed Montana Commission on Community Service was created in 1993 to renew the ethic of civic responsibility in the state and to encourage citizens, regardless of age and income, to engage in service.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory

Nancy Jordan recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Nancy Jordan as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Griz-Bobcat football game in Missoula.

Who: Nancy Jordan, Senior Companion
What: Volunteer of the Game
When: Saturday, November 17, game starts at 1:30pm, presentation at the start of halftime
Where: Washington-Grizzly Stadium, Missoula

Nancy Jordan is being recognized for her dedication to helping at risk seniors stay independent. Nancy is a Senior Companion for Adult Protective Services in Missoula. As a Senior Companion, she helps isolated seniors and adults with disabilities by assisting with their daily tasks, errands, and appointments. Since joining the Senior Companion program in December of 2008, Nancy has volunteered almost 5,000 hours. Nancy Jordan truly is a compassionate volunteer dedicated to supporting seniors with enthusiasm and a positive touch.

The Senior Companion Program is run by Missoula Aging Services. Learn more about Senior Companions and other Senior Corps programs at www.missoulaagingservices.org.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service has been recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Grizzlies’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form. Nominations are due December 18, 2012.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory
Donna West recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Donna West as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Bobcat home football game.

Who: Donna West, Gallatin Valley Food Bank and Help Center Volunteer
What: Volunteer of the Game
When: Saturday, November 10, game starts at 1:35pm, presentation during the first quarter break
Where: Bobcat Stadium, Bozeman

Donna West is recognized for her dedication to helping those in need with her volunteer work at the Gallatin Valley Food Bank and the Help Center in Bozeman. Donna has been a consistent volunteer at the Gallatin Valley Food Bank for seventeen years and helps in any way she can every Monday, Thursday, and Friday. She sorts donations, makes deliveries to homebound seniors, fundraises, and provides to a warm welcome to clients receiving services. Donna has also volunteered for twelve years at the Help Center supporting their crisis hotlines. She regularly staffs a crisis line on Wednesdays, refers clients to Help Center services, and helps with fundraising. Donna West truly is a compassionate volunteer making sure people in her community receive the services and support they need.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service has been recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Bobcats’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory

Jim White recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Jim White as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Bobcat home football game.

Who: Jim White, Red Cross Volunteer

What: Volunteer of the Game

When: Saturday, October 27, game starts at 1:35pm, presentation during the first quarter break

Where: Bobcat Stadium, Bozeman

Jim White of Helena is being recognized for his commitment to emergency preparedness and response. Jim is a dedicated volunteer with the American Red Cross of Montana and serves as the Disaster Action Team Chair. He has responded to many Montana emergencies including the flooding last spring and the severe wildfires this summer. Jim’s commitment extends beyond his community and he is willing to go wherever help is needed. Jim recently helped with the emergency shelter in Billings and is responsible for the Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle which can be deployed nationwide. As a disaster instructor, Jim also teaches fellow volunteers and communities about the importance of emergency preparedness. Jim White is a true leader and volunteer dedicated to preparing his community and Montana for disasters and emergencies.

The American Red Cross of Montana is always looking for volunteers to help with their services to the armed forces, disaster preparedness efforts, and emergency response work. Last year, the Red Cross responded to a disaster every 28 hours. Learn how to get involved by calling 1-800-272-6668 or visit www.redcross.org.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service is recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Bobcats’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory

Ryan Lee recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Ryan Lee as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Griz home football game.

Who: Ryan Lee

What: Volunteer of the Game

When: Saturday, October 27, game starts at 1:30pm, presentation at the start of halftime

Where: Washington-Grizzly Stadium, Missoula

Ryan Lee of Drummond is being recognized for his commitment to emergency preparedness and response. Ryan works for Eagle Ambulance in Montana City and volunteers with the Drummond Volunteer Ambulance Service. Ryan is also making sure his community of Drummond and his neighbors in Phillipsburg are prepared for disasters by organizing Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) trainings. Last year, he held a successful CERT training in Drummond and the group continues to meet regularly. This November, Ryan will be extending the CERT program to the Phillipsburg community. Ryan Lee truly is a committed volunteer making sure his community and neighbors are ready for disasters and emergencies of all kinds.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. The Phillipsburg CERT training will be held November 9, 10, 16 and 17 and space is still available. Call Ryan Lee at 406-360-1626 to register. Learn more about the CERT program at www.citizencorps.gov/cert.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service is recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Grizzlies’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory

Mike and Nancy Huus recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Mike and Nancy Huus as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Griz home football game.

Who: Mike and Nancy Huus, foster parents with Dan Fox Family Care Program
What: Volunteer of the Game
When: Saturday, October 13, game starts at 1:30pm, presentation at the start of halftime
Where: Washington-Grizzly Stadium, Missoula

Mike and Nancy Huus are recognized for their work as foster parents for 20 years. They have provided a safe home and guidance to 11 teenage girls from across Montana. Even after the loss of their own daughter, Mike and Nancy have continued to open their home to youth in need of support and supervision. The foster kids placed with Mike and Nancy have received the care and love they need to mature into young adults. Mike and Nancy truly make a difference by opening their home to young Montanans in need.

Mike and Nancy are certified Guide Home foster parents with the Dan Fox Family Care Program. The Dan Fox Family Care Program offers foster care and adoption as well as in-home family support services. They serve children ages 2-18 years of age and who are referred from child welfare workers, mental health case managers and youth corrections workers. There is always a need for new foster parents like Mike and Nancy. Learn more at www.youthhomes.com.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service is recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Grizzlies’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory

Alpha Omicron Phi recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Alpha Omicron Phi as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Bobcat home football game.

Who: Alpha Omicron Phi (Mandy Hedstrom and Cari Kaiser-Sielbach will be accepting the award)

What: Volunteer of the Game

When: Saturday, September 22, game starts at 1:35pm, presentation between the third and fourth quarter

Where: Bobcat Stadium, Bozeman

The Alpha Omicron Phi chapter at Montana State University is recognized for their commitment to service and volunteering. Alpha Omicron Phi (AOII) is a women’s fraternity dedicated to serving their community and making a difference in the world. The ladies of AOII are encouraged to develop their leadership skills through volunteering and community service. Recently they have significantly increased their service activities and logged a record-breaking 2,500 volunteer hours in the last year. Members of AOII serve the Gallatin Valley by volunteering with Eagle Mount, Thrive, Reach, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Gallatin Valley Food Bank, HAVEN Women’s Shelter, Family Promise, Relay for Life, Bozeman Deaconess Hospital, Museum of the Rockies, Bridger Clinic, Heart of the Valley, Habitat for Humanity, and many more. Alpha Omicron Phi members truly value community service and have made a lifelong commitment to strengthening their community by serving others.

Mandy Hedstrom, Chapter President, and Cari Kaiser-Sielbach will be accepting the award on behalf of Alpha Omicron Phi.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service is recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Bobcats’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory

Pat Sorich recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Pat Sorich as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Griz home football game.

Who: Pat Sorich

What: Volunteer of the Game

When: Saturday, September 22, game starts at 1:30pm, presentation between the third and fourth quarter

Where: Washington-Grizzly Stadium, Missoula

Pat Sorich is being recognized for her dedication to serving the Butte community as a volunteer tax preparer and site coordinator for the last 21 years. Through two Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites, Pat has prepared taxes for countless low to moderate income people and has been a strong leader to her fellow volunteers. Because of her leadership, Butte VITA sites were able to complete 836 tax returns and refund $920,000 to Butte residents last year. Pat truly has a lifelong commitment to volunteering. As an employee of the banking community, she first served her community 60 years ago as a member of the service-orientated Credit Women’s Breakfast Club. She now serves on the Board of Directors for Energy Share and is also a regular volunteer with World Museum of Mining. Pat is asset to the Butte community and her service truly makes a difference to countless individuals!

The Governor’s Office of Community Service is recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Grizzlies’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory

Bert Lindler recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Bert Lindler as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Griz home football game.

Who: Bert Lindler

What: Volunteer of the Game

When: Saturday, September 15, game starts at 1:30pm, presentation between the third and fourth quarter

Where: Washington-Grizzly Stadium, Missoula

Bert Lindler is being recognized for his dedication to conservation and environmental stewardship. Bert has volunteered countless hours to preserving Montana’s natural resources. He has helped organize fencing removal projects, built elk passage gates, educated neighbors about bear awareness, and advocated for hunter access and wildlife conservation. The many organizations that Bert regularly volunteers with include Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the U.S. Forest Service, The Nature Conservancy, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Hellgate Hunters and Anglers, Five Valleys Land Trust, the National Wildlife Federation, the Grant Creek Trails Association, the Grant Creek Neighborhood Council, the City of Missoula Open Space Advisory Committee, and the City of Missoula Conservation Lands Advisory Committee. Bert truly is a committed volunteer making sure that Montana’s wild places are preserved and open for all to enjoy.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service is recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Grizzlies’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory

Brenda York recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Brenda York as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Bobcat home football game.

Who: Brenda York

What: Volunteer of the Game

When: Saturday, September 15, game starts at 1:35pm, presentation between the third and fourth quarter

Where: Bobcat Stadium, Bozeman

Brenda York is being recognized for her support of youth equestrian events, veterans, and those with disabilities and special needs. As an avid horsewoman, Brenda volunteers her time at many equestrian events in the Bozeman area. She served three years as the co-director of equestrian events at the State Special Olympics and continues to serve on the Board of the Gallatin County Fair. She also goes above and beyond her job as Director of Disability, Reentry and Veterans Services as MSU-Bozeman. She volunteers with the annual Veterans Stand Down, led the renovation effort for the Veterans Park at MSU, and organized last year’s National Role Call event. She also helped create the Gallatin County Veterans Providers Group and established the MSU Veterans Support Center. Brenda York is a true leader and volunteer dedicated to her community.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service is recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Bobcats’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance

Montanans Encouraged to Volunteer

HELENA, MT- In honor of the September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance, the Governor’s Office of Community Service encourages Montanans to help a neighbor in need or participate in volunteer service activities in their communities.

“Volunteering is the perfect way to honor the anniversary of September 11th and the heroes who served that day,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “I encourage Montanans to lend a helping hand in their community.”

Citizens can participate in the September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance by participating in a service project, thanking those who serve in their community, or finding a way they can volunteer at www.buildmontana.org.

National Service members including Senior Corps and AmeriCorps members across Montana will be participating in activities to honor the 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, including:

• AmeriCorps VISTA, AmeriCorps State, and Senior Corps programs are collecting toiletries, household items, and coffee for emergency shelters, veterans’ organizations, and food banks across the state. Find collection locations here.
• The Billings Metro VISTA project is hosting a Garden Beautification Day at the Whitetail Run Community Garden at on Tuesday, 9/11, between 12pm and 3pm. Contact Jessie Soye or Lauren Asmus at 406-237-1900.
• Montana State Parks AmeriCorps members will be teaching Emergency and Outdoor Survival Skills at Giant Spring State Park in Great Falls on Saturday, 9/15. Contact Savanna Davenport at 406-454-5840.
• Women’s Opportunity and Resource Development, Inc. (WORD) will be holding a necessity drive for women and families in poverty at the Orange Street Food Farm on Friday, 9/21, from 3pm to 7pm. Contact Robyn Hegland at 406-534-3550, ext. 231.
• Action for Eastern Montana Senior Companion program is collecting items and preparing care packages for National Guard Troops currently serving in Afghanistan. Contact Karen O’Dell at 800-227-0703.
• Senior Corps programs from across Montana created a tribute video thanking the military and first responders. The video can be viewed here.

To see a full list of September service activities, please visit serve.mt.gov.

The September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance is the culmination of efforts originally launched in 2002 by the 9/11 nonprofit MyGoodDeed with wide support by the 9/11 community and leading national service organizations. This effort established the tradition of engaging in charitable service on 9/11 as an annual and forward-looking tribute to the 9/11 victims, survivors, and those who rose up in service in response to the attacks. In 2009, Congress designated September 11th as a National Day of Service and Remembrance under bipartisan federal law, and charged the Corporation for National and Community Service with helping to support this effort across the country.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Montanans Encouraged to Prepare Their Communities

September is National Preparedness Month

HELENA, MT- September is National Preparedness Month and the Governor’s Office of Community Service encourages all Montanans to take the time to make sure their homes, neighborhoods, and communities are prepared for emergencies and disasters of all kinds.

“I encourage Montanans to take a few simple steps this September to prepare their homes and communities for disasters,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “Assemble an emergency supply kit, talk to your family about what to do in case of a disaster, learn where to find information about emergencies, and get to know your neighbors who might need a little extra help.”

Montanans can get involved with National Preparedness Month by hosting a Neighborhood Preparedness Party in their community. These events bring communities together to learn about emergency preparedness and what to do in times of disaster. The Governor’s Office of Community Service will help sponsor Neighborhood Preparedness Parties by providing emergency supply kit starter bags and emergency preparedness resources. Learn more about hosting a Neighborhood Preparedness Party at serve.mt.gov/npm.

“We never know when an emergency may threaten our communities, that’s why it is so important that Montanans make preparedness their personal responsibility,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “When disasters happen, it is communities that know each other and know what to do that can respond quickly and recover fully.”

National Preparedness Month was founded after 9/11 to increase preparedness in the United States. Now in its ninth year, it is a nationwide, month-long effort hosted by the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, encouraging households, businesses and communities to prepare and plan for emergencies.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Media Advisory

Loreene Pimley recognized as Volunteer of the Game

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Loreene Pimley of Joplin, MT as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Thursday’s Bobcat home opening football game.

Who: Loreene Pimley (Tiffani Pimley, Loreene’s granddaughter, will be accepting the award on her behalf)

What: Volunteer of the Game

When: Thursday, August 30, 2012, game starts at 7:05pm, presentation between the third and fourth quarter

Where: Bobcat Stadium

Loreene Pimley from Joplin, MT is recognized for her outstanding commitment to helping those in need to stay warm. For the last 50 years, Loreene has been a member of the Joplin Quilters. This group of Hi-Line women in their 70’s and 80’s get together weekly to make quilts that are then donated to organizations all over Montana, across the U.S. and around the world. They have made well over 40,000 quilts that have been distributed to organizations such as the VA Hospital, the Florence Crittenton Center for Pregnant and Parenting Teens, the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, and numerous homeless shelters. Loreene will be in Spokane for cancer treatment, so her granddaughter, Tiffani Pimley, will be accepting the award on her behalf.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service is recognizing community volunteers at home games throughout the 2012 Bobcats’ football season. Nominate an outstanding volunteer from your community for a ServeMontana Award. Go to http://serve.mt.gov/servemontana-awards/ to download the award nomination form.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

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Public Asked to Nominate an Outstanding Volunteer

Annual Awards Recognize Volunteer Service in Montana

HELENA, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service and the Montana Commission on Community Service announced today that nominations are now being accepted for the 2013 ServeMontana Awards and ReadyMontana Awards.

Presented in February, these annual awards recognize outstanding Montana individuals, organizations and national service members committed to community and volunteer service.

“Montanans truly are making a difference in their hometowns by volunteering their time and skills,” said Kim Miske, Chair of the Montana Commission on Community Service. “We ask the public to share their stories and help us recognize these inspiring volunteers.”

• The ServeMontana Awards are for service and volunteer work in the areas of education, healthy futures, environmental stewardship, veterans & military families, and economic opportunity.
• The ReadyMontana Awards are for service specifically related to disaster services, emergency preparedness and emergency response.

The nomination form is available to download at serve.mt.gov.

All nominations for the 2013 awards must be to the Governor’s Office of Community Service by December 18, 2012.

The Montana Commission on Community Service will present the awards during the annual ServeMontana Symposium in February 2013 in Helena. There will be more than one award presented in each category.

The public is encouraged to nominate individuals of all ages and backgrounds, organizations, and groups. All services must be performed in Montana and individual nominees may not be salaried for the services performed.

The Governor-appointed Montana Commission on Community Service was created in 1993 to renew the ethic of civic responsibility in the state and to encourage citizens, regardless of age and income, to engage in service.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

Visit serve.mt.gov.

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The annual fire season briefing was delivered to Governor Brian Schweitzer. The briefing included presentations from the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Northern Rockies Coordination Center, Local Government, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Disaster and Emergency Services and the Montana National Guard.

“We’ve already burned more than 30,000 acres this year,” said Governor Schweitzer, who noted a couple of large fires on the Blackfeet Reservation in January as well as a 7,000 acre fire east of Havre in mid-March. “The hot, dry weather this month has also elevated the fire risk in some areas to unseasonably high.”

Early season predictions about the fire season in Montana and throughout the Northern Rockies geographic area don’t point to an extreme season, but even in an “average” season, fire crews for the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation will respond to 350 wildfires.

“Local, state and federal firefighting operations are always prepared for the season, but wildfire preparedness carries individual responsibility for homeowners in the wildland urban interface.  Firefighters count on homeowners and rural landowners to do their part by reducing flammable materials from their properties to create defensible space in fire-prone areas,” said Schweitzer.

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation will conduct a pilot project utilizing the social media site Twitter to release fire information. “Twitter will not replace our traditional information-sharing methods, such as Inciweb or news releases,” said DNRC Director Mary Sexton. “It is another tool we will employ to assist us in timely dissemination of fire information.”

Visit the FireReady Montana web site at www.serve.mt.gov for more information on how to prepare for fire season.

Montana Celebrates Senior Corps Week

Thanking Senior Volunteers Serving Our Communities
May 7-11, 2012

Helena, MT – Montana joins the nationwide celebration of Senior Corps Week, May 7-11, spotlighting the vital service done by Senior Corps programs across the Big Sky state.

Senior Corps volunteers mentor youth, help seniors live independently, support nonprofits, aid in disasters, and volunteer wherever help is needed.

“Thank you to the 5,300 Senior Corps volunteers making a difference for our Montana communities,” said Governor Brain Schweitzer. “They bring experience, wisdom and commitment while helping our neighbors young and old.”

For more than four decades, Senior Corps and its three programs – RSVP, Senior Companions, and Foster Grandparents – have been very successful ways to engage Americans ages 55 and over in meeting community needs. In Montana, Senior Corps programs serve in 47 counties and engage more than 5,300 seniors. Last year, Senior Corps provided 1,000 frail seniors with companionship and assistance, mentored 4,000 children with special needs, and helped 1,100 community organizations meet their missions.

The public is encouraged to thank their local Senior Corps volunteers. Learn more and find a Senior Corps program in your community at serve.mt.gov.

“Montana nonprofits, schools, and community organizations rely heavily on help from seniors,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “Senior volunteers work diligently behind the scenes in our towns to make sure kids can read, the elderly can stay in their homes, and community projects get done.”

Senior Corps is a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service, an independent federal agency, created to connect Americans of all ages and backgrounds with opportunities to give back to their communities and their nation. There are nearly 330,000 Senior Corps participants nationwide. Learn more at www.getinvolved.gov.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

Visit us at serve.mt.gov.
Connect with us on Facebook at ServeMontana.
Find a volunteer opportunity at Build Montana.

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Contact:

70 Students Awarded Youth Serve Montana Scholarships

Students earn $1,000 for college by giving 100 volunteer hours

Helena, MT –The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today that 70 Montana high school senior students from 62 schools are receiving a $1,000 Youth Serve Montana Scholarship. These scholarships are in recognition of students who have volunteered more than 100 hours in the last year.

“These young leaders have shown a commitment to Montana through their service,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “We are happy to thank them by making it a little easier to pay for college.”

Visit serve.mt.gov to find the list of scholarship recipients in your area.

These $1,000 Youth Serve Montana Scholarships are for continued education at one of Montana Campus Compact’s twenty two-year, four-year, public, tribal, private, or community colleges and universities.

“The Youth Serve Montana Scholarships are a great way to honor Montana’s high school seniors who’ve dedicated their time to make a difference in their communities,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service.

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants needed to volunteer at least 100 hours in the last year. Many students volunteered more than this and in total, the 70 scholarship recipients contributed 11,705 volunteer hours to Montana. Students helped their communities by mentoring youth, organizing recycling drives, coaching sports teams, cleaning up parks, helping at food pantries, volunteering in hospitals, participating in 4-H service events, supporting Special Olympics, volunteering at museums, assisting with Red Cross blood drives, and so much more.  Continue Reading

Youth Serve their Communities with Global Youth Service Day

-April 20-22, 2012-

Helena, MT – Youth across Montana will serve their communities this weekend as part of Global Youth Service Day, the largest and longest-running service event in the world, and the only major service event dedicated to youth.

“This weekend students and youth will lead hands-on service projects that benefit their communities,” said First Lady Nancy Schweitzer. “I thank these young volunteers for tackling issues that are important to them, such as the caring for the environment, growing gardens and healthy food, and promoting recycling.”

The public is encouraged to volunteer with the children and youth in their community. Projects include Earth Day celebrations, community garden workdays, park clean-up and painting endeavors, recycling events, and artistic activities.

For a list of Global Youth Service Day projects in Montana, visit serve.mt.gov. To view the official Global Youth Service Day map visit www.gysd.org.

These Global Youth Service Day projects are sponsored by a variety of organizations that involve youth, including the Montana Audubon Conservation Education Center, Anaconda Family Resource Center, Girl Scouts Troops, community gardens, AmeriCorps programs, FCCLA chapters, 4-H clubs, Boys and Girls clubs, afterschool programs, United Ways, Little League clubs, and community nonprofits. Continue Reading

April is Donate Life Month

Montanans Encouraged to Register as an Organ, Eye and Tissue Donor

Helena, MT – Lt. Governor John Bohlinger and the Governor’s Office of Community Service invite Montanans to participate in Donate Life Month and register as organ, eye and tissue donors.

Currently, 251 people in Montana are waiting for life saving organ transplants. Last year, 23 Montana organ donors saved 76 lives and 91 Montana tissue donors impacted the lives of more than 4,000 people. One organ, eye, and tissue donor can save or enhance the lives of over 50 people.

“I have seen firsthand how important donations are to families and their loved ones,” said Lt. Governor John Bohlinger. “I encourage everyone to register and to give the gift of life. It is easy to register; I signed up when I renewed my license.”

Most Montanans register as a donor when renewing their driver’s license or state ID though the state Motor Vehicle Division. The public can register anytime online though Donate Life Today at serve.mt.gov during the month of April. Throughout the year, visit www.donatelifetoday.com to register or learn more about organ, eye, and tissue donation.

“Last year, 259 citizens registered or renewed their organ, eye and tissue donation wishes as part of the Donate Life Today month,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “We encourage citizens who have not already registered to join us in this life saving decision.” Continue Reading

Montana Conservation Corps Seeks Adventurous Teens for Summer Crew Expeditions

Four-week Volunteer Service Experience includes $200 dollar Service Award

Bozeman – Montana Conservation Corps (www.mtcorps.org) announced today that it is seeking adventurous teens aged 15-17 years old for their ‘Youth Service Expedition’ program, a four-week, summer service experience that combines outdoor adventure, education, job skills training and fun! Participants will receive a Service Award of $200 dollars upon successful completion of program.

“The summer Youth Service Expeditions are a terrific opportunity for young Montanans to get outside and reconnect with values that make Montana great – values like hard work for quality results, service to community, stewardship of our public lands, and working together in common purpose,” says Jono McKinney, President and CEO for the Montana Conservation Corps. McKinney adds: “I see a lot of big smiles when these kids return from a month with the corps. They know they’ve done something great.”

‘Youth Service Expedition’ crews will be based out of Kalispell, Missoula, Helena, Bozeman and Billings but youths from across the state, including rural areas, are encouraged to apply to participate in either of two sessions: June 11 – July 6 and July 16 – August 10. Parents need only drop-off teens for the orientation and safety briefing at the start of each session, and then pick them up four weeks later for the final graduation picnic. Participants may have the opportunity to check in by phone, but otherwise will be on “Expedition” for the full duration of the program. Continue Reading

Montana Conservation Corps Helps Veterans Get Back to Work

Three month program combines conservation, job skills training, and education

Montana Conservation Corps (mtcorps.org), announced today that it is seeking veterans for its Veterans Green Corps, a summer job skills training program that combines public land conservation, technical training, and education. Participants gain the necessary skills to pursue careers in wildfire and forestry management while transitioning to civilian life by leveraging their leadership experience, strong work ethic and team approach to meet conservation needs on public lands.

"I can't recommend the MCC highly enough for new veterans, especially those recently returned from AOR deployments. The mix of remote living in a stateside setting provides an excellent re-integration into civilian life," said Steve Kokal, 2011 MCC Veterans Green Corps participant.

Veterans Green Corps will be based out of Billings, Montana and Helena, MT with project work on the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge and the Bridger Teton National Forest in Montana, and the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest in southern Wyoming and northern Colorado. The entire project is focused on fuels reduction so an interest in using chainsaws and crosscut saws is essential.

Members receive S212 saw certification and Basic Firefighter certification and over 300 hours of conservation skills training and practice. Participants receive an AmeriCorps living stipend and upon completion of the program, an AmeriCorps education award to pursue education opportunities and technical training.

Two sessions are offered: late May – August and August to October. Interested veterans are encouraged to contact Tauzha Grantham at Montana Conservation Corps by phone: 406-651-1311 or email: tauzha@mtcorps.org. More information and applications are available online at www.mtcorps.org.

Veterans Green Corps is a collaborative initiative of Montana Conservation Corps and Veteran Green Jobs (http://veteransgreenjobs.org/). Continue Reading

Montana Celebrates AmeriCorps Week

Recognizing AmeriCorps Members Serving Our Communities

March 10-18, 2012

Helena, MT – Montana will join the nationwide celebration of AmeriCorps Week, March 10-18, spotlighting the vital service done by AmeriCorps in communities across the state. In Big Sky Country, AmeriCorps members build trails, mentor at-risk youth, weatherize homes, help students learn to read, assist with tax preparations, build homes for low-income families, recruit volunteers, help nonprofits achieve their mission, and so much more. Since 1994, more than 7,200 Montana residents have served more than 6.7 million hours with AmeriCorps.

“I thank all the AmeriCorps members serving in our Montana communities,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer, “These outstanding men and women are truly making a difference through their time, commitment and incredible energy.”

The public is encouraged to thank AmeriCorps members for their service to Montana and find an AmeriCorps Week event in their area.

To mark AmeriCorps Week a number of events are happening around the state including service projects in Billings, Box Elder, Dillon, Hamilton, Havre, Kalispell, Missoula, and Pablo; AmeriCorps presentations for schools in Billings, Butte, Culbertson, Eureka, Great Falls, and Missoula; AmeriCorps Alumni gatherings in Billings, Missoula, and Poplar; public displays in Billings, Bozeman, Butte, and Missoula; and special AmeriCorps radio shows in Browning, Butte, Missoula, and Poplar. These events will allow community residents to learn about and participate in AmeriCorps programs.

For a list of AmeriCorps Week event in Montana, please visit: serve.mt.gov.

“AmeriCorps members are vital to our Montana nonprofits and community organizations,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “This year 1,418 AmeriCorps members will support more than 500 nonprofits, schools, and community organizations.” Continue Reading

Mini-Grants Available for Global Youth Service Day Projects

-Apply by March 23, 2012-

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service is seeking youth-led community projects for Global Youth Service Day on April 20-22, 2012. In partnership with YSA (Youth Service America), the Governor’s Office of Community Service is offering $150 mini-grants for up to 30 projects that engage youth in serving their community.

 “We are excited to offer mini-grants for Montana’s youth to participate in Global Youth Service Day,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “Volunteering in your community when you are young creates a strong commitment to volunteer service that lasts for a lifetime.”

Global Youth Service Day is an annual campaign that celebrates and mobilizes the millions of children and youths who improve their communities each day of the year through service and service-learning. Established in 1988, GYSD is the largest service event in the world and is now celebrated in over 100 countries.

Organizations, schools, afterschool programs, service clubs, and youth can apply. Youth are especially encouraged to apply for projects they have planned in their community. Applications are due to the Governor’s Office of Community Service by Friday, March 23 at Noon.

The application form, additional guidelines, and an FAQ can be found on the website: serve.mt.gov.

Continue Reading

First Lady Announces Winners of Nancy’s Garden Recipe Card Contest

View cards at: mathscience.mt.gov

(HELENA) – Today, First Lady Nancy Schweitzer announced the winners of the Nancy’s Garden Recipe Card Contest to engage children in exploring gardening, healthy eating, and cooking. Earlier this year, Montana students were invited to submit a favorite family recipe including ingredients that could be grown in a garden. Alternatively, students could submit drawings or illustrations of their favorite healthy recipe. The winning recipes and illustrations were printed on recipe cards and will be used to promote gardening and healthy eating to students and teachers.

“Montana kids embraced this idea and sent us fun, creative recipes that families will enjoy making together plus darling illustrations,” said First Lady Nancy Schweitzer. “These winning entries represent a full menu from breakfast to dessert of healthy and Montana-made foods.”

Winning Recipes and Illustrations:

• Garden Fresh Egg Muffins – Submitted by Amélie Toler, 4th Grade, Montessori Island School in Livingston
• Apple Slusher – Submitted by Tanner Inman, 1st Grade, Ennis Elementary School
• Green Pea Spread – Submitted by Rebekah Yager, 2nd Grade, Amsterdam Elementary
• Broccoli Apple Salad – Submitted by Ellawynn Morrison, 2nd Grade, Ennis Elementary School
• Fresh Garden Salad – Submitted by Nicole Lessley, 3rd Grade, Willow Creek School
• Elk Soup – Submitted by James Stieb, 3rd Grade, Willow Creek School
• Fresh Fruit Salad – Submitted by Kaiden Batzler, 2nd Grade, Sheridan Elementary School

The recipe contest is part of Nancy’s Garden, a feature of the Governor and First Lady’s Math & Science Initiative (mathscience.mt.gov). Nancy’s Garden provides a gardening experience for Montana students by supplying grow boxes, seeds, lesson plans and instructions for classrooms.

The contest is sponsored by the Governor’s Office of Community Service with a grant from the Sodexo Foundation and Youth Serve America. The contest is also a partnership with the Department of Public Health & Human Services and Montana’s No Kid Hungry® Campaign to engage children in eliminating childhood hunger.

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Montanans Honored for Outstanding Volunteer Service

Thursday, February 23, 2012

First Lady Nancy Schweitzer and Lt. Gov. John Bohlinger Present Awards

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service and the Montana Commission on Community Service announced today the 2012 recipients of the ServeMontana, ReadyMontana, and First Lady’s Math & Science Awards. Theses annual awards are presented to outstanding community volunteers and organizations for their service to Montana.

The awards will be presented at the ServeMontana Symposium luncheon ceremony on Thursday, February 23 at the Red Lion Colonial Hotel ballroom in Helena at noon.

“We are excited to recognize these exceptional Montanans who are examples of how helping your neighbor can strengthen our communities,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service.

Lt. Governor John Bohlinger will present six ReadyMontana Awards to outstanding community volunteers and organizations in the areas of disaster services, emergency preparedness and emergency response. *see award recipient list below

First Lady Nancy Schweitzer will present six First Lady’s Math & Science Awards to exceptional individuals, organizations, and groups for promoting in math and science education. *see award recipient list below

Lt. Governor John Bohlinger will present eight ServeMontana Awards to outstanding national service members, community volunteers and organizations in the social impact areas of humanities, education, healthy futures, environmental stewardship, veterans & military families and economic opportunity. *see award recipient list below

“We are proud to honor these individuals and organizations who represent the true spirit of civic engagement.” said Kim Miske, Chair of the Montana Commission on Community Service.

Thursday’s awards ceremony luncheon will be part of the 2012 ServeMontana Symposium, a two-day conference focused on providing training and resources for national service programs, nonprofits, and organizations who use and support volunteers.

2012 ReadyMontana Award Recipients (in alphabetical order by location):

• Billings, MT: Ron Glass – coordinator of Yellowstone Amateur Radio Emergency Services
• Bozeman, MT: Norman and Jeanne Eggert– part of the American Red Cross of Montana Disaster Action Team
• Ekalaka, MT: Louise Dague – volunteer EMT with the Ekalaka Ambulance Service
• Sidney, MT: Fellowship Baptist Church- provides for the needs of the new population in Sidney
• Three Forks, MT: Becky Arbuckle – volunteer EMT with the Three Forks Area Ambulance
• Victor, MT: Victor Volunteer Fire Department – protects the Victor community from fire

2012 First Lady’s Math & Science Award Recipients (in alphabetical order by location):

• Billings, MT: Ken Reiter – volunteer at the Audubon Conservation Education Center in Billings
• Butte and Helena, MT: Montana Bureau of Mines & Geology and Jon Axline, MDT employee – creators of Montana’s Geologic Road Signs
• Helena, MT: Don and Donna Eisenmenger – volunteers at the Montana Wild Education & Wildlife Center in Helena
• Seeley Lake, MT: Pearl Hawkins – Foster Grandparent at the Liz Claiborne Preschool at Seeley Lake Elementary
• Statewide: Nancy’s Garden Team ¬– (Andrew Olcott of Montana Correctional Enterprises, Marc Williams of Eleanor’s Garden, Lorri Brenneman of the Department of Agriculture, Toby Day of MSU Extension, Katie Bark of Montana Team Nutrition, and Judy Fisher of Fisher’s Garden Store) developers of the newest feature of the Governor and First Lady’s Math & Science Initiative
• West Yellowstone, MT: Arne Siegel ¬– promotes the use of the A World in Motion® Curriculum in Montana classrooms

2012 ServeMontana Award Recipients (in alphabetical order by location):

• Arlee, MT: Leon Wieder – founder of Spur the Cancer Out of Montana to raise money for cancer patients
• Glasgow, MT: Rod Karst – high school teach, coach, and volunteer committed to inspiring leadership in youth
• Great Falls, MT: T.C. Knutson – Montana Campus Corps AmeriCorps Team Leader at MSU- Great Falls
• Helena, MT: CASA – organization that recruits, trains, and mentors volunteers to advocate for children in the court system
• Kalispell, MT: Eugene Brownfield ¬– Montana State Park Volunteer at Lone Pine State Park
• Miles City, MT: Alfred Olson – Senior Corps RSVP Volunteer dedicated to serving veterans
• Missoula, MT: Minkie Medora – volunteer committed to ending childhood hunger in Montana
• Terry, MT: Wynona Breen – volunteer who transcribed the 1893-1928 diaries of Evelyn Cameron

For more information about the awards and for brief bios of the recipients, please visit serve.mt.gov.

The 2012 ServeMontana Symposium is sponsored by The Department of Commerce, Montana Citizen Corps, Target, Mountain Sky Guest Ranch Fund, the Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation, Town Pump, Glacier Bank, the Corporation for National and Community Service, NorthWestern Energy, Humanities Montana, the Department of Public Health and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture, the Office of Public Instruction, AARP, Hopa Mountain, and the Montana Nonprofit Association. Learn more and download the agenda at serve.mt.gov.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service expands and promotes national service and volunteerism in Montana and engages citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

Connect with us on Facebook at ServeMontana.

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Free Tax Preparation Assistance for Veterans

February 14 in Helena, Miles City, Hamilton, Havre,
Kalispell, Butte, Great Falls, Bozeman and Billings

Helena, MT –Volunteers across Montana are gearing up to help veterans prepare tax returns on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2012. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites will offer veterans priority in having their taxes prepared free by IRS certified volunteers.

“Volunteers across Montana have dedicated a day to help veterans with their tax returns,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “This is a great way for us to say ‘thank you’ to our veterans.”

Veterans can go to designated VITA site to have their taxes prepared free by IRS certified volunteers. To qualify the veteran must have a household income of less than $50,000 and schedule an appointment with a participating location.

Veterans can schedule an appointment at one of following VITA sites:

February 14

• Butte- Aldersgate United Methodist Church, walk-in, no appointment needed
• Great Falls- Rural Dynamics, call 406-454-5707
• Hamilton-Ravalli County Federal Credit Union, call 406-363-4631
• Helena- Trico Community Federal Credit Union, call 406-442-1421
• Helena- Helena Community Credit Union, call 406-495-6071
• Kalispell- Community Action Partnership Northwest, call 406-758-5445
• Miles City- Eagles Manor, call 406-234-5320

February 13-17

• Billings- HRDC District 7, call 406-247-4710

March 6

• Bozeman- Bozeman Public Library call 406-586-6641
• Havre- Opportunity Link, call 406-265-3699

“Doing your taxes can be a challenging experience. Too often those who can least afford it pay for someone to prepare their taxes,” said Dan O’Brien, AmeriCorps VISTA member with the Montana Credit Unions for Community Development. “VITA volunteers help hard working tax payers prepare their taxes for free, which save them money and gives them peace of mind.” Continue Reading

ServeMontana Symposium

Volunteer focused conference February 23-24, 2012

Helena, MT - Registration is now open for the ServeMontana Symposium on February 23 and 24 at the Red Lion Colonial Hotel in Helena, MT. This affordable conference, offered by the Governor’s Office of Community Service, focuses on providing training and resources for national service programs, nonprofits, and organizations who use and support volunteers.

“The ServeMontana Symposium is an excellent training opportunity for nonprofits, community organizations, and volunteers,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “We know communities are looking for resources and tools that help them to better recruit and manage volunteers.”

What: ServeMontana Symposium: Growing Montana Communities

When: February 23-24, 2012

Where: Red Lion Colonial Hotel, Helena, MT

Who: Nonprofits, community organizations, national service members and volunteers

Cost: $100 before 2/10/12 or $125 after 2/10/12

Register: Registration available online at serve.mt.gov

The ServeMontana Symposium agenda includes: two-part training on volunteer management, breakout sessions highlighting strategies that work in Montana, a two-hour grant writing session, keynote address on America’s Commitment to Service by Frank Greer, Founding Partner of GMMB, closing address from Jeremy Smith, author of Growing a Garden City, and much more. Continue Reading

Volunteer on MLK Day

Public Encouraged to Volunteer on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Helena, MT –The Governor’s Office of Community Service encourages Montanans to volunteer this Monday, January 16, in honor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday.

“I hope Montanans will think of the MLK Day of Service as a ‘day on, not a day off’ and I encourage everyone to find a service opportunity in their community,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “There are lots of ways to help others, like making a donation to local food banks or by simply shoveling the sidewalk for a neighbor.”

The public can find volunteer opportunities in their community all year long at www.buildmontana.org.

National Service members including AmeriCorps and Senior Corps members have organized and are participating in more than 30 service projects across Montana. These projects include reading events for grade school children, diversity celebrations, free tax preparation and filing outreach, food and clothing drives, and so much more. The public can also donate healthy breakfast items to the statewide Wake up Montana! Healthy Breakfast Food Drive organized by AmeriCorps VISTAs and the Department of Public Health and Human Services.

For a full list of service events organized by National Service members, please click here.

Continue Reading

First Lady Launches Nancy’s Garden Recipe Card Contest

(HELENA) – Today, First Lady Nancy Schweitzer announced a recipe card contest to engage children in exploring gardening, healthy eating, and cooking. Montana students are invited to submit a favorite family recipe that includes ingredients that can be grown in a garden. Alternatively, students can submit drawings or illustrations of their favorite healthy recipe. The winning recipes and illustrations will be printed on recipe cards and distributed at the ServeMontana Symposium in Helena, February 23–24, 2012. The theme of the symposium is Growing Montana Communities.

“Gardening and cooking give kids a fun, hands-on experience with fruits and vegetables,” said First Lady Nancy Schweitzer. “Growing, measuring, and mixing your food is also a great way to explore math and science.”

The recipe contest is part of Nancy’s Garden, the newest feature of the Governor and First Lady’s Math & Science Initiative (mathscience.mt.gov). Nancy’s Garden provides a gardening experience for every 4th grade student by supplying grow boxes, seeds, lesson plans and instructions for each classroom.

The contest is sponsored by the Governor’s Office of Community Service with a grant from the Sodexo Foundation and Youth Serve America. The contest is also a partnership with the Department of Public Health & Human Services to engage children in eliminating childhood hunger.

Guidelines on the contest can be found at mathscience.mt.gov. Submissions must be received by Friday, February 3, 2012.

Download the contest guidelines:

• Guidelines (Word)
• Guidelines (PDF)

Continue Reading

2012 Youth Serve Montana Scholarships Available to High School Seniors

Students earn $1,000 dollars for college by giving 100 volunteer hours

Helena, MT –The Governor’s Office of Community Service and Montana Campus Compact, announced today that the 2012 Youth Serve Montana Scholarships are now available for up to 70 Montana high school seniors. It is the 7th year for this exciting scholarship opportunity aimed at students who have completed 100 hours of volunteer service in their community by April 16, 2012.

Students who apply and qualify may receive $1,000 dollars toward continued education at one of Montana Campus Compact’s twenty public, tribal, private, community, or community colleges and universities.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize our students’ enthusiasm for volunteering,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “The Youth Serve Montana Scholarships are a great way to honor students who invest their time and talents in Montana, and want to stay here for college.”

Applications, proof of volunteer service, and enrollment to a Montana post-secondary institution must be submitted to the Governor’s Office of Community Service by noon April 16, 2012.

The application form, additional guidelines, and a scholarship FAQ can be found on the website: serve.mt.gov

“Students who volunteer gain valuable job skills and invest in their community,” said Stefani Hicswa, President of Miles City Community College and member of the Montana Campus Compact. “These scholarships provide us the opportunity to reward student leaders throughout Montana for making a difference.” President Hicswa also serves on the Montana Commission on Community Service. Continue Reading

Nominate an Outstanding Volunteer

Deadline Approaching for Public to Submit Nominations

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service, in partnership with First Lady Nancy Schweitzer and the Montana Commission on Community Service, is accepting nominations for the 2012 ServeMontana Awards, ReadyMontana Awards and First Lady’s Math and Science Awards. Nominations are due December 21, 2011.

Presented in February, these annual awards recognize outstanding Montana individuals, organizations and national service members committed to community and volunteer service.

“All over Montana people are volunteering and giving back to their communities in amazing ways,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “We ask the public to help us recognize these inspiring individuals.”

• The ServeMontana Awards are for service and volunteer work in the areas of education, healthy futures, environmental stewardship, veterans & military families, and economic opportunity.
• The ReadyMontana Awards are for service specifically related to disaster services, emergency preparedness and emergency response.
• The First Lady’s Math and Science Awards are for outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses that promote math and science education in Montana.

Click here: Award Application and Nomination Information

Deadline for Nomination Applications: Wednesday, December 21, 2011

The Lt. Governor and First Lady will present these awards during the ServeMontana Symposium February 23, 2012 in Helena. There will be more than one award presented in each category.

“These awards help us honor individuals and organizations who represent the true spirit of civic engagement in Montana,” said Kim Miske, Chair of the Montana Commission on Community Service. “Each year we look forward to learning about the incredible things Montanans are doing for each other.” Continue Reading

Montana AmeriCorps Program Seeks School and Community Partners

Young Adult Service Corps

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today that the Jobs for Montana Graduates Foundation (JMGF) is seeking partnerships with high schools and community based organizations for their Young Adult Service Corps (YASC) AmeriCorps program.

“We are seeking schools and organizations that want to help young adults make a difference in their communities,” said Sarah Sadowski, Director of Young Adult Service Corps. “Committed partner organizations can give Young Adult Service Corps members the opportunity to provide valuable contributions to their community through service.”

The Jobs for Montana Graduates Foundation is seeking schools and community based organizations to partner in offering Young Adults Service Corps AmeriCorps positions to their local youth. Partner organizations agree to supervise the young adult participants and arrange volunteer service activities. JMGF provides training to participants and supervisors on leadership, job skills and civic engagement. JMGF also offers scholarship incentives and networking and collaboration opportunities to participating organizations. Successful partner organizations include high schools, alternative education programs, Boys and Girls Clubs, Job Corps Centers, after school programs, and nonprofits.

Interested schools and organizations can learn more about the Young Adult Service Corps program by contacting Sarah Sadowski at (406) 443-2413 or by visiting http://www.jmgf-mt.org/ and clicking on “AmeriCorps.” Continue Reading

Gallatin Valley Food Bank to be Recognized at Bobcat Game

Saturday, Nov. 19

“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize the Gallatin Valley Food Bank as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Bobcat-Griz football game in Bozeman.

Saturday’s game will also be the finale to the “Can the Griz” food drive benefiting the Gallatin Valley Food Bank. This annual challenge, organized by Campus Corps AmeriCorps members, invites the public to make food and cash donations to meet the goal of collecting over 32,000 pours of food to beat the “Can the Cats” food drive effort at UM.

“It is great to see volunteers take the Bobcat and Griz rivalry off the field and challenge one another to help our local food banks,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “I give my special thanks to the 580 volunteers with the Gallatin Valley Food Bank who make sure food gets to those who need it.”

The Gallatin Valley Food Bank has been providing an emergency food supply to the greater Gallatin Valley for almost 30 years. In 2010, they served more than 9,600 people. Volunteers support the food bank through their hours spent sorting donations, repacking bulk food items, stocking shelves, picking up donations, delivering KidsPack and Senior Grocery foods, and directly serving those in need. Last year, more than 580 volunteers provided nearly 11,200 hours of service.

Volunteer Jhett Johnson and his Mother Dia Johnson will be receiving the recognition at the Bobcat game on behalf of the Gallatin Valley Food Bank. Jhett and his father Lt. Mark Johnson help the food bank by stocking shelves, sorting donations, and providing support to community members in need of food assistance.

“It’s a tremendous honor to accept the Volunteer of the Game award on behalf of all of our volunteers who have helped us throughout the year,” said Tim Trzinski, Program Director of the Gallatin Valley Food Bank. “Without the tremendous support of our wonderfully dedicated volunteers the work we do would be a seemingly insurmountable task. Our volunteers allow us to serve our community in ways we would never be able to do on our own. We cannot thank them enough.”

This Saturday marks the finale of the “Can the Griz” food drive that leverages the cross-state football rivalry to raise resources for the Gallatin Valley Food Bank. Last year, volunteers collected 27,292 pounds of food or donations to benefit the Gallatin Valley Food Bank. Campus Corps AmeriCorps members and MSU student volunteers will be collecting can goods at the gate to the football game and the winner of the 12th annual “Can the Cats” and “Can the Griz” challenge will be announced during the game. Continue Reading

Honor Our Veterans with Service this Veterans Day

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service encourages citizens to honor our veterans this Veterans Day with service and volunteering in their community.

“Veterans Day is a time to remember and honor all our Montana veterans,” said Lt. Governor John Bohlinger. “I encourage the public to honor our veterans by volunteering in their community.”

This Veterans Day, Montana State University is hosting a public event to honor our veterans with the Remembrance Day Nation Roll Call and Operation Honor Card “Wall of Service.” Lt. Governor Bohlinger, a Marine Corps Veteran, will be attending this event at MSU.

Montana volunteers will join in with the Remembrance Day National Roll Call effort by reading aloud the names of more than 6,200 service men and women who died in Iraq and Afghanistan during the past 10 years. This public event is from 9am-5pm in the Leigh Lounge of the Montana State University’s Strand Union Building and will be streamed live on the MSU website at http://www.montana.edu/veteransrollcall/.

Since September 11, Volunteers with the 20 Senior Corps and RSVP programs across Montana collected Operation Honor Cards. These cards encourage the public to pledge hours of service in honor of our troops, veterans, and military families. Senior Corps volunteers collected over 185,000 hours of pledged service from across Montana. The public is invited to view the “Wall of Service” displaying the collected Operation Honor Cards and make a personal pledge at MSU on Friday.

The public can honor veterans through their service anytime of the year. Build Montana helps the public find volunteer opportunities throughout Montana by combing over 16 national and local search sites into one website (www.buildmontana.org). Build Montana is a program of the Montana Nonprofit Association. Continue Reading

Hopa Mountain announces training program and competitive grants for youth service program leaders

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service and Hopa Mountain, a Bozeman-based nonprofit organization, announced today a training program and opportunity for competitive grants for youth program leaders through Youth Leaders in Service. This National Corporation for Community Service grant program is designed to train and support adult leaders of youth service as they engage rural and tribal youth, ages 11-17, living in Montana, Wyoming, and South Dakota's Pine Ridge and Cheyenne River Reservations, in leading service activities that create healthier communities. Teams of youth program directors will have the opportunity to participate in a three-day training program January 20-22, 2012 and apply for grant support to implement their youth-led initiative throughout the spring and summer of 2012. The application deadline is December 12, 2011. The application is at http://www.hopamountain.org/YouthLeadershipInService.php. Continue Reading

Missoula Food Bank to be Recognized at Grizzly Game

Saturday, Nov. 5
“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize the Missoula Food Bank as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s UM Grizzly home football game.

Saturday’s game will also kick off the “Can the Cats” food drive benefiting the Missoula Food Bank. This challenge invites the public to make food and cash donations to meet the goal of collecting over 40,000 pounds of food to beat the “Can the Griz” food drive effort at MSU.

“It is great to see volunteers take the Bobcat and Griz rivalry off the field and challenge one another to help our local food banks,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “I give my special thanks to the 900 volunteers with the Missoula Food Bank who make sure food gets to those who need it.”

Missoula Food Bank has been providing an emergency food supply to the Missoula community for almost 30 years. In 2010, they served more than 15,700 people. Volunteers are essential are all aspects of their operation including stocking shelves, boxing groceries, sorting deliveries for seniors and stuffing backpacks with supplemental food for kids during the summertime. Last year, more than 900 volunteers provided over 17,500 hours of service.

“Missoula Food Bank is grateful to the wonderful people in Missoula who make our work possible,” said Cynthia Lotty, Executive Director of Missoula Food Bank. “Volunteers are the cornerstone of our service delivery system who gives us the opportunity to serve our community.” Continue Reading

Margrit Firehammer to be Recognized at Bobcat Game

Saturday, October 29, 2011

“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Margrit Firehammer, Site Coordinator of the Bozeman VITA program, as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s MSU Bobcats home game.

“Montana has a long tradition of neighbor helping neighbor,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “We congratulate and thank Margrit for her outstanding community leadership providing tax assistance for hard-working Montanans.”

Margrit Firehammer serves as the Site Coordinator for the Bozeman VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program that helps low income clients with their tax returns. Margrit became certified VITA volunteer in 1993 after helping her elderly Aunt Sue for years. For two years, Margrit volunteered by herself preparing returns in retirement homes and business conference rooms. Now Margrit coordinates a dedicated group of six volunteers. Jack Robbins, Don Kress, Don Mathre, Diann Harding, and Ed Ferrell join Margrit Firehammer at the Bozeman Public Library every Tuesday starting in February.

"I am proud of the service our VITA volunteers provide to the Bozeman community," said Margrit Firehammer. "Last year we helped over 350 people with their tax returns and we are looking forward to helping even more people this year." Continue Reading

Billy Izzard to be Recognized at Grizzly Game

Saturday, October 29, 2011

“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Billy Izzard, founder of the Milltown Garden Patch, as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s UM Grizzly home game.

“Billy Izzard’s commitment to creating a community garden in Milltown is extraordinary,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “Montana has a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. Those who volunteer are truly unsung heroes and it is their hard work and dedication that helps make our state great.”

Billy Izzard had an idea for a garden in Milltown in the winter of 2009. Now the Milltown Garden Patch just wrapped up its second successful growing season. The community garden is on land provided by Milltown Water Users Association and provides garden space for the residents of Milltown, Bonner, Riverside, and East Missoula. This year over 300 pounds of produce from the garden were donated to the Missoula Food Bank and local churches. Continue Reading

Patty Stevens to be Recognized at Grizzly Game

Saturday, October 15
"Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Patty Stevens, community leader in Ronan, as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s UM Grizzly home game.

“Montana has a long tradition of neighbor helping neighbor,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “We congratulate and thank Patty for her outstanding community leadership that benefits children and families in Indian Country.”

Patty Stevens is committed to improving her community on the Flathead Reservation by working with children and families. Stevens believes that it is important to bring elders, adults, and kids together for healthy and fun events that benefit the community and keep tribal cultural traditions alive. This summer, Stevens and her husband sponsored a Horse and Culture Camp that gave local children exposure to horses and provided a safe place to gather. Stevens also helped coordinate this year's annual hunting camp that brought together elders, adults, and youth from all over Indian Country.

"Volunteerism is the best contribution you can make to your community," said Patty Stevens. "Volunteering shows you care.”

Stevens’ dedication to youth shows through her time as a foster parent, mentor to Youth Challenge Program graduates, and Ronan School Board member. She currently serves on the Salish Kootenai College Foundation Board and is a former Salish Kootenai College Board member. Stevens' personal story was recently featured in the "Keep Talking Montana" video that educates parents and kids about the consequences of underage drinking. In the video, Stevens encourages parents to keep talking to their kids and other parents about the importance of preventing underage drinking. Stevens’ son died in an alcohol related accident and she does not want any parent to have to go through the pain of losing a child. Continue Reading

Jim Korth to be Recognized at Bobcat Game

Saturday, October 15
“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Jim Korth, Veteran Service Provider, as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s MSU Bobcats home game.

“Korth’s commitment to helping veterans in need is extraordinary,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “Montana has a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. Those who volunteer are truly unsung heroes and it is their hard work and dedication that helps make our state great.”

Jim Korth works with the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program, but his commitment to serving veterans in the community extends well beyond his day job. This summer, Korth helped coordinate the second annual “Veteran Stand Down” that reached out to local veterans and families. During the Stand Down, over 300 veterans received free services including haircuts, medical screenings, and employment assistances provided by 200 volunteers. Korth has also been instrumental in organizing the monthly Veterans Service Provider Meetings in Bozeman. These meetings bring together all the different agencies that support veterans including representatives from the City of Bozeman and our State Senate offices. Korth is committed to connecting veterans to the services they need.

“Whenever there is a need for a volunteer Jim Korth is the go to guy,” said Brenda York, MSU’s Director of Disability, Re-Entry and Veterans Services. “He is always there for the Bozeman community.”

Korth served in the US Navy and is an active member of the Vietnam Veterans of America and the American Legion in Bozeman. He believes that it is important to give back to his community and to support those who are still serving in the military. As Veteran’s Day approaches, Korth encourages the public to find a way they can lend a hand to those who serve. Continue Reading

First Lady to Unveil Geo-Sign, Visit Campus Community Garden in Dillon TOMORROW

(HELENA) - First Lady Nancy Schweitzer will unveil the “Beaverhead Rock” geologic interpretive sign near Dillon tomorrow. The First Lady will be joined by 3rd grade students from Parkview School in Dillon and featured speaker Sheila Roberts, a Professor of Geology at the University of Montana Western. This is one of 49 geo-signs installed along Montana’s highways since 2006.

The First Lady will also visit the Campus Community Garden at UM Western as part of the university’s Rural Friday’s program. The program brings elementary students from surrounding rural schools to the UM Western campus where education students design curriculum and practice student teaching. This fall, the university’s FoodCorps VISTA coordinated an agriculture theme and classes will take place at the campus garden.

Who: First Lady Nancy Schweitzer

When/Where: Tomorrow - Friday, October 14, 2011

9:30AM – Visit Campus Community Garden, North edge of UM Western campus at the end of Cornell Street

10:45AM – Beaverhead Rock roadside geology marker, Milepost 13 on Montana Highway 41, northeast of Dillon

Why: The Governor and First Lady’s Math and Science Initiative (mathscience.mt.gov) invites Montana’s youth to discover the many opportunities to learn about science and math in K-12 schools and higher education, find out about career opportunities and explore Montana’s splendid surroundings. Continue Reading

Garden City Harvest to be Recognized at Grizzly Game

Saturday, October 1

“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Garden City Harvest, a Missoula nonprofit, as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s UM Grizzly home game.

“We recognize and thank Garden City Harvest for their commitment to growing healthy food for families,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “Garden City Harvest uses volunteers to grow and deliver food to those who need it.”

Garden City Harvest, a Missoula nonprofit, builds community through agriculture by growing produce with and for people with low-incomes, offering education and training in agriculture, and using gardens for the personal restoration of youth and adults. Garden City Harvest’s 200 volunteers work in gardens that provide over 30,000 pounds of food each season for those in need. In 2010, their produce provided over 22,000 meals through the Montana Food Bank alone. Continue Reading

Thrive to be Recognized at Bobcat Game

Saturday, October 1

“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Thrive, a local nonprofit, as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s MSU Bobcats home game.

“We recognize and thank Thrive for their commitment to children and families,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “By engaging volunteers, Thrive has made a difference in the Bozeman community for 25 years.”

Thrive, a Bozeman nonprofit, is celebrating their Silver anniversary. For 25 years, Thrive has actively engaged volunteers in their organization’s work. Thrive provides education, support and resources to a generation of families and kids. Thrive encourages healthy family and child development through community awareness, parent education, and support to children and families ensuring positive outcomes for children. In 2010 alone there were 561 children in the Child Advancement Project, 240 girls from all over the state at the Girls for a Change conference, and thousands of parents who participated in Parent Place activities.

“Thrive is honored to accept the Governor’s Office of Community Service’s Volunteer of the Game recognition,” said Deborah Neuman, Executive Director of Thrive. “We benefit from the time and talents of over 700 volunteers, an amazing board, a remarkable professional staff, strong collaborative partners, and the unending support of local business and individuals. When families are strong, children succeed and communities thrive. Everyone benefits.” Continue Reading

Curt Belts to be Recognized at Griz Game

Saturday, September 17
“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Curt Belts as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s UM Grizzly home game. Curt Belts, retired Missoula Rural Fire Chief, coordinated the community volunteers who helped with flooding in Missoula this June.

“Curt’s commitment to helping neighbors in need is extraordinary,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “Montana has a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. Those who volunteer are truly are unsung heroes and it is their hard work and dedication that helps make our state great.”

During the flooding this June, Curt Belts stepped up to fill the need as volunteer coordinator in Missoula. Volunteers overwhelmed the Missoula County flooding hotlines with calls from people wanting to know how they could help. The United Way of Missoula County took over coordinating volunteers with Belts as the volunteer manager. He matched up volunteers with community needs and made sure the details such as sunscreen, food, water, and bug spray were all covered. Belts ended up coordinating over 50 volunteers a day to fill and haul sandbags when homes were at risk for flooding.

“United Way is grateful for Curt Belt’s service to our community,” said Beth Frazee, Director of Development and Marketing at the United Way of Missoula County. “We were honored to help coordinate volunteers and funds for local flood relief. Belts was absolutely instrumental in this process. A retired fire chief, Belts was accustomed to dealing with emergencies. He made sure that hundreds of volunteers were well screened and placed at different sites to help our neighbors during this traumatic time.” 

Belt’s daughters, Amy Bone and Randi Larson, will be receiving his recognition at the Griz game on his behalf.

Curt Belts is being recognized for his flood relief work as part of National Preparedness Month. AmeriCorps members with the Montana Conservation Corps will be also recognized at the Bobcat Game for their flood relief efforts in the Eastern part of the state. National Preparedness is a nationwide, month-long effort hosted by the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, encouraging households, businesses and communities to prepare and plan for emergencies. Continue Reading

AmeriCorps Members to be Recognized at Bobcat Game

Saturday, September 17
“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize Montana Conservation Corps (MCC) and their outstanding AmeriCorps members as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s MSU Bobcats home game.

“I send my thanks to all the Montana Conservation Corps AmeriCorps members for helping our communities prepare for flooding and clean up after the water receded,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer.

During the flooding this spring, MCC members filled sandbags in the Bozeman and Missoula communities. This summer, MCC collaborated with other National Service programs and volunteer organizations to clean up flood damage in the Roundup area. Over 100 volunteers helped reclaim and manage land by repairing and clearing more than five miles of fence line, removing debris, and stacking usable firewood. MCC members also helped reduce flooding in the Billings area by removing a logjam.

“They [MCC] worked hard, were very respectful and a great help in our flood recovery,” said Jennifer Bergin, Roundup rancher. Continue Reading

First Lady to Join Students Voting for new Math & Science Trading Cards

(HELENA) - First Lady Nancy Schweitzer will visit Central School in Helena tomorrow and join students who will be voting online in a contest to select new Math & Science Trading Card.

The First Lady has invited students, teachers, and the public to help select a new set of Math & Science trading cards by voting for up to 10 of their favorite Montana facts. This year’s set of trading cards share facts about Montana food, nutrition, and agriculture. The Governor and First Lady distribute the cards when traveling to classrooms across the state as part of the Governor and First Lady’s Math & Science Initiative.

The contest can be accessed online at mathscience.mt.gov and voting is open through September 16th.

Who: First Lady Nancy Schweitzer
What: Join students voting for new Math & Science Trading Cards
When: TOMORROW, Thursday, September 15 – 1:00PM
Where: Central School, 402 North Warren, Helena

**The Governor and First Lady’s Math and Science Initiative invites Montana’s youth to discover the many opportunities to learn about science and math in K-12 schools and higher education, find out about career opportunities and explore Montana’s splendid surroundings. The theme of this year’s trading cards are a continuation of Nancy’s Garden – a set of classroom gardening materials distributed to 4th grade classrooms this spring.

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Missoula Fire Department to be Recognized at Griz Game

Saturday, September 9
“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize the Missoula Fire Department as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s UM Grizzlies opening home game.

“We thank our local firefighters for their public service and commitment to their community,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “I invite the public to join me in paying tribute to our men and women who keep us safe in honor of the 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance.”

The Missoula Fire Department has been serving the Missoula community since 1927. Their public service goes beyond responding to fires. Firefighters educate the public through their door-to-door smoke detector program, provide counseling to children engaged in fire setting, and give back with their charitable work and donations to local organizations. Learn more at http://missoulafirefighters.org.

“The Missoula Firefighters Union Local 271 is proud to be able to give back to our community,” said Jeff Kroll, President of IAFF L-271. “Our Union Firefighters recently volunteered over 400 hours and raised over $5,000 to host our 2nd annual Military Veterans Retreat. We are also proud to say that we raised $18,460 with this year’s fill the boot campaign where all of the proceeds go to help children with Muscular Dystrophy.”

Continue Reading

Bozeman Fire Department to be Recognized at Bobcat Game

Saturday, September 9

“Volunteer of the Game”

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service will recognize the Bozeman Fire Department as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s MSU Bobcats opening home game.

“We thank our local firefighters for their public service and commitment to their community,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “I invite the public to join me in paying tribute to our men and women who keep us safe in honor of the 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance.”

The Bozeman Fire Department has been serving the Bozeman community since 1884. Their public service goes beyond responding to fires. Every year they provide fire safety education to over 3,000 schoolchildren. Firefighters are also trained in hazmat services, EMS, and are certified car seat technicians. Continue Reading

First Lady Launches Online Voting Contest for New Math & Science Trading Cards

(mathscience.mt.gov)

(HELENA) – Today, Montana’s First Lady, Nancy Schweitzer announced an online voting contest to select a new set of Math & Science trading cards. The First Lady invited students, teachers, and the public to participate by voting online for up to 10 of their favorite Montana math and science facts. This year’s set of trading cards share facts about Montana food, nutrition, and agriculture. The contest can be accessed online at mathscience.mt.gov and voting is open through September 16.

The First Lady distributes the cards when traveling to classrooms across the state as part of the Governor and First Lady’s Math & Science Initiative. “Kids of all ages can find something new to learn about Montana’s diverse agricultural industry, and we also share facts about the nutrition of foods grown in Montana,” said the First Lady. “Ultimately, the voting contest lets kids decide what’s most interesting about our state.”

The Governor and First Lady’s Math and Science Initiative invites Montana’s youth to discover the many opportunities to learn about science and math in K-12 schools and higher education, find out about career opportunities and explore Montana’s splendid surroundings. The theme of this year’s trading cards are a continuation of Nancy’s Garden – a set of classroom gardening materials distributed to 4th grade classrooms this spring.

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Citizens Encouraged to Prepare Their Communities

September is National Preparedness Month

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service and the Department of Disaster and Emergency Services join with organizations across the nation in recognizing September as National Preparedness Month. Citizens can get involved and prepare their community for emergencies by putting together an emergency supply kit, making an emergency plan, and joining in with local preparedness events.

“Preparedness is a shared responsibility,” said Ed Tinsley, Administrator of Disaster and Emergency Services. “We encourage all Montanans to get involved by ensuring that their homes, workplaces, and communities are prepared for disasters and emergencies of all kinds.” Continue Reading

9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance

Montanans Encouraged to Volunteer

Helena, MT- In honor of the September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance, the Governor’s Office of Community Service encourages Montanans to help a neighbor in need and/or participate in volunteer service activities in their local communities.

“To recognize the 10th anniversary of the attacks on September 11th we encourage Montanans to lend a helping hand in their communities,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “Those who volunteer and serve make a difference in Montana and we thank them for their service!”

Citizens can participate in the September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance by participating in a service project, thanking those who serve in their community, or finding a way they can volunteer at www.buildmontana.org.

National Service members including Senior Corps and AmeriCorps members across Montana invite the public to join them in service at the following events:

• School Supply Drive and Annual Picnic in Butte on Wednesday 9/6/11 from 4pm-6pm at the World Museum of Mining- contact Michele Brennick at 406-533-2508
• “Cup of Coffee for Montana’s Veterans” Coffee Supply Collection in Helena 9/1 to 9/9- contact Kayla Parker at 406-442-9830 ext 22
• Ice Cream Social Honoring Veterans in Miles City on Thursday 9/8 from 9am to 4pm at the VA Medical Center- contact Betty Vail at 406-234-0505
• “Great Falls Supports Our Soldiers” Care Package Collection in Great Falls 9/1 to 9/12- contact Stephanie Fenner at 406-454-5725
• Toiletry Drive to benefit WORD in Missoula on Friday 9/9 from 3pm-7pm at the Orange Street Food Farm- contact Traci Kutzleb at 406-273-0142
• Chokecherry Festival in Lewistown on Saturday 9/10 from 9am-4:30pm- look for the RSVP and Emergency Preparedness Booth- contact Shirlee Brillhart at 406-323-1403
• Trails Day at Herron Park in Kalispell on Saturday 9/10 from 10am to 3:30pm- Contact the Montana Conservation Corps at 406-755-3619
• Disaster Preparedness Fair in Butte on Sunday 9/11 starting at 1pm at Stodden Park- contact Ashley Makowski at 406-461-2132
• Freedom Walk in Helena on Sunday 9/11 starting at 2pm at the North end of the Walking Mall- contact Liann Meyer at 406-227-8824
• Disaster Preparedness Kit Creations in Havre on Monday 9/12 starting at 3:30pm at the Boys & Girls Club of the Hi-Line- contact Samantha Hutchins at 406-265-6206
• United Way Day of Caring in Billings on Thursday 9/15 at the United Way Center- Contact United Way of Yellowstone County at 406-252-3839
• Veterans’ “Stand Down” Outreach in Sidney on Saturday 9/17- contact Idelle Badt at 406-443-2207
• “A Tribute to Service” in Kalispell on Wednesday 9/21 starting at 4pm at Flathead Valley Community College- contact Sara Cowger at 406-758-5712

For a full list of September service activities please visit http://serve.mt.gov/?p=7216. Continue Reading

Public Asked to Nominate an Outstanding Volunteer

Annual Awards Recognize Volunteer Service in Montana

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service, in partnership with First Lady Nancy Schweitzer and the Montana Commission on Community Service, announced today that nominations are being accepted for the 2012 Serve Montana Awards, Ready Montana Awards and First Lady’s Math and Science Awards.

Presented in February, these annual awards recognize outstanding Montana individuals, organizations and national service members committed to community and volunteer service.

“All over Montana people are serving and giving back to their communities in amazing ways,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “We ask the public to help us recognize these inspiring individuals.”

• The ServeMontana Awards are for service and volunteer work in the areas of education, healthy futures, environmental stewardship, veterans & military families, and economic opportunity.
• The ReadyMontana Awards are for service specifically related to disaster services, emergency preparedness and emergency response.
• The First Lady’s Math and Science Awards are for outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses that promote math and science education in Montana.

Click here: Award Application and Nomination Information

Deadline for Nomination Applications: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 Continue Reading

Join AmeriCorps and Serve Your Community

Montana AmeriCorps Programs Now Accepting Applications

Helena, MT- Montana AmeriCorps programs seek energetic individuals to make a difference by serving in communities across Montana. AmeriCorps is a great option for college students or recent graduates looking to gain experience or those between jobs wanting to diversify their skill sets. While serving in AmeriCorps, members gain job skills, earn money for college and develop leadership skills.

This year more than 1,200 AmeriCorps members served Montana by mentoring youth, building affordable energy efficient housing, cleaning parks and streams, building trails, weatherizing homes, assisting with tax preparation, helping communities respond to disasters, recruiting volunteers, preparing to be teachers and health care providers and more.

“I joined AmeriCorps to gain experience and insight into what I wanted for a career,” said Alana Brown, AmeriCorps Member with the Justice for Montanans Project. “AmeriCorps ultimately changed what I valued, what I can live without, and taught me to look at life through a big-picture lens. When my service ends this month, I plan to attend law school and continue to work for justice.” Alana Brown will be attending the University of Montana School of Law this fall. Continue Reading

MCC Seeks Veterans for Job Skills Training Program

 Montana Conservation Corps (MCC) (mtcorps.org) is seeking recently returned veterans for its Veterans Green Corps Wildlands Fuel Management Program, an AmeriCorps program that focuses on conservation skills and career development for current era veterans interested in pursuing employment opportunities with land management agencies.

MCC Program Director, Lee Gault explained, “MCC’s Wildlands Fuel Management Program offers a unique opportunity for recently returned vets to leverage their leadership experience with technical skills to pursue careers with land management agencies. Our members gain valuable experience through employment projects that focus on skill development, certification, and networking with land management employers.” Continue Reading

MEDIA ADVISORY

Community Volunteers Trained at ReadyMontana Symposium

Who: Shelia McFerran, Featured Trainer from Huntsville, Alabama
Glen Puffer, MSU Associate Dean of Students, CERT Coordinator for Gallatin County
American Red Cross of Montana
Montana National Guard
Governor’s Office of Community Service

What: Ready Montana Symposium for emergency preparedness training and disaster simulation for community volunteers

When: Symposium June 2-4, 2011
“Be Red Cross Ready” Presentation and Lunch- Friday, June 3rd at 12:00pm
Montana National Guard Disaster Simulation- Saturday, June 4th at 1:00pm

Where: MSU Billing Campus Student Union Building- 1500 University Drive

* The media is encouraged to attend the “Be Red Cross Ready” Presentation on Friday, June 3rd at 12:00pm. It will be held in the ballroom of the MSU Billings Student Union.

Helena, MT- Community volunteers and emergency response leaders are receiving disaster and emergency preparedness training at the ReadyMontana Symposium at Montana State University Billings on June 2-4, 2011. This affordable training opportunity was provided by ReadyMontana, an initiative from the Governor’s Office of Community Service to engage citizens in service and emergency preparedness (ready.mt.gov). Continue Reading

91 High School Students Awarded Youth Serve Montana Scholarship

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today that 91 Montana High School Seniors from 64 Montana Schools are receiving a $1000 Youth Serve Montana Scholarship. These scholarships are in recognition of students who have performed over 100 hours of volunteer service within the past year.

“The Youth Serve Montana Scholarships are a great way to honor Montana’s High School Seniors who’ve dedicated their time to make a difference in their communities,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer.

Click here for the list of scholarship recipients in your area.

Youth Serve Montana Scholarship recipient Codi Francis lives in Manhattan, Montana and attends Manhattan High School. She will attend Montana State University in the fall and hopes to major in Nursing. In the last year, Codi spent over a 100 hours volunteering at the Bozeman Deaconess Hospital, which inspired her to pursue a career in nursing. Codi also volunteers with the Gallatin County 4-H Scooting Sports and Tiger Buddies (her school’s mentoring program). Continue Reading

MEDIA ADVISORY

Secretary of State Linda McCulloch and First Lady Nancy Schweitzer Celebrate AmeriCorps Week

*The public is encouraged to attend the service project organized by AmeriCorps members from 9am to 1pm at the Selma Held Community Garden.

Who: Secretary of State Linda McCulloch, First Lady Nancy Schweitzer, Helena City Commissioner Matt Elsaesser, and AmeriCorps members serving in Helena.

What: AmeriCorps Week Celebration and Service Project.

When: TOMORROW, Friday May 20, 10:00 a.m.

Where: Selma Held Park in Helena (Corner of Belt View and Saddle Drive)

Helena, MT- As part of the nationwide AmeriCorps Week, May 14-21, the Governor’s Office of Community Service will honor AmeriCorps members who serve in Helena on Friday, May 20, 2011 at the Selma Held Park and Community Garden.

This event will feature Secretary of State Linda McCulloch, First Lady Nancy Schweitzer, and Helena City Commissioner Matt Elsaesser in recognizing the more than 90 AmeriCorps members serving in Helena this year. Continue Reading

Montana Celebrates AmeriCorps Week

Recognizing AmeriCorps Members Serving Our Communities

Helena, MT- Montana will join the nationwide celebration of AmeriCorps Week, May 14-21 spotlighting the vital work done by AmeriCorps members in communities across Montana. Since 1994, AmeriCorps members have been serving at community organizations, building trails, mentoring at-risk youth, weatherizing homes, helping students learn to read, assisting with tax preparations, building homes for low-income families, and helping nonprofits recruit volunteers and achieve their mission.

The public is encouraged to find an AmeriCorps Week event in their area and thank AmeriCorps members for their service to Montana.

“We thank the 1,215 AmeriCorps members for volunteering this year in Montana,” said Jan Lombardi, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “AmeriCorps members help so many communities across our state with their local needs, and AmeriCorps Week is a perfect opportunity to recognize their great work.” Continue Reading

HOPA MOUNTAIN ANNOUCES TRAINING PROGRAM AND COMPETITVE GRANTS FOR YOUTH SERVICE PROGRAM LEADERS

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service and Hopa Mountain, a Bozeman-based nonprofit organization, announced today a training program and opportunity for competitive grants for youth program leaders through Youth Leaders in Service. This National Corporation for Community Service grant program is designed to train and support adult leaders of youth service as they engage rural and tribal youth, ages 11-17, living in Montana, Wyoming, and South Dakota's Pine Ridge and Cheyenne River Reservations, in leading service activities that create healthier communities. Youth program directors that are accepted to participate in a four-day training program August 1-4 will be invited to work with rural and tribal youth to determine a meaningful community service project and apply for grant support to implement their youth-led initiative throughout the 2011-2012 school year. The application deadline is June 15, 2011. The request for proposals can be found at www.hopamountain.org.

Eleven teams of youth program leaders along with two youth will be chosen in a competitive application process to participate in the four-day summer training program that will be held August 1-4. Participating teams may also choose to apply to receive up to $12,000 in support to launch a service-learning afterschool program. Funds must be matched 1:1 in cash or in-kind support by grantee organizations. Rural and tribal youth program leaders working in communities with populations under 35,000 are eligible to apply. Preference will be given to participating organizations that serve a high percentage of children that are eligible for free and reduced lunch programs.

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Volunteers Wanted for Emergency Preparedness Training

$25.00 for 3 days of Training Including Room and Board

Helena, MT- Registration is now open for emergency preparedness training offered at the ReadyMontana Symposium at Montana State University Billings on June 2-4, 2011. This affordable training opportunity is provided by ReadyMontana, an initiative from the Governor’s Office of Community Service to engage citizens in service and emergency preparedness.

“We are pleased to announce our first annual ReadyMontana Symposium,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “It is the responsibility of all Montanans to be prepared. This is an excellent opportunity for citizens to be trained on how they can be ready and volunteer when disaster strikes.”

The ReadyMontana Symposium offers three core trainings, two plenary trainings, and two disaster exercises. Registration is $25 and is open to anyone who is interested in making his or her community safer, stronger, and better prepared for disasters of all kinds.

Register today online: www.msubillings.edu/readymontana/

“When disaster happens, we know that emergency service personal are not available to help everyone right away,” said Shelia McFerran, featured trainer from Huntsville, Alabama. “When community members have CERT training they save lives, project property, and bring peace to the community. After our recent tornado in Alabama, we have seen the calmest response due to the CERT training in the community and the volunteers that were able to be deployed immediately.” Continue Reading

Montana Youth Serve Their Communities with
‘Global Youth Service Day’

THIS WEEKEND- Friday, Saturday, Sunday– April 15, 16, 17

Helena – Nearly 1,000 youth across Montana will be volunteering this weekend for Global Youth Service Day (gysd.org), an annual campaign that celebrates and mobilizes youth across the country and the world who improve their communities each day of the year through service and service-learning. The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) for the 7th year serves as the Lead Agency for Global Youth Service Day Events this weekend, April 15-17.

“We want to get as many young people as possible involved in Global Youth Service Day,” said Jan Lombardi, Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “Volunteering in your community when you are young creates a strong commitment to service for life.”

The Governor’s Office of Community Service awarded 17 mini-grants in 14 communities for projects that involve community service activities for youths.

“We are using our mini-grant award to purchase two Amur chokecherry trees and landscaping edging,” said Jennifer McKay, Junior Girl Scout Troop Leader in Dillon and mini-grant recipient. “We believe these trees and our project will make the Children’s Park and Robert Monaco Memorial Playhouse a more appealing place for kids to come and play.” Continue Reading

MEDIA ADVISORY

Lt. Governor kicks off Donate Life Month- Promoting Donor Awareness

Friday- April 8, 2010 – 9:30AM– Capitol Rotunda

Helena – Lt. Governor John Bohlinger, Attorney General Steve Bullock and the Governor’s Office of Community Service join the parent of a Montana donor to announce the start of Donate Life Month, organ donor awareness month, on Friday, April 8 at 9:30am in the Capitol Rotunda -Helena.

A Donate Life Today flag will fly outside of the Capitol on Friday, April 8 to commemorate the event.

Participating in the Capitol Rotunda Event is Libby Lausch of Alberton, Montana. She will receive a 2011 Rose Parade flora-graph depicting her 20-year old son, Matthew, whose organ and eye donations in 2009 saved 3 lives and restored vision to 2 people. Click here for Matthew’s story.

“Matt gave the greatest gift a person could give his fellow man,” said Libby Lausch, donor mother. “He gave the gift of life through eye and organ donation.” Continue Reading

April is Donate Life Month- Promoting Organ Donor Awareness

Montanans Encouraged to Register as an Organ, Eye and Tissue Donor

Helena, MT –The Governor’s Office of Community Service invites Montanans to participate in Donate Life Month and register as organ, eye and tissue donors.

Currently, 225 people in Montana are waiting for life saving organ transplants. Last year, 52 lives were saved by 19 Montana organ donors.

Most Montanans register as a donor when renewing their driver’s license or state ID though the state Motor Vehicle Division.

“We are proud that Montana is a leader in organ, eye and tissue registration,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “We encourage citizens who have not already registered to join us in this life saving decision.”

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Montana Conservation Corps Seeks Adventurous Teens for Summer Crew Expeditions

Four-week Volunteer Service Experience includes $200 dollar Service Award

Download Press Release

Helena – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that Montana Conservation Corps (www.mtcorps.org), an AmeriCorps program, is seeking adventurous teens aged 15-17 years old for the ‘Youth Service Expedition’ program, a four-week, summer service experience that combines outdoor adventure, education, job skills training and fun! Participants will receive a Service Award of $200 dollars upon completion. Continue Reading

State Encouraging Communities to Register Programs with FEMA

HELENA- Montana Disaster and Emergency Services and the Governor's Office of Community Service are working together to encourage communities to register as Citizen Corps Councils and Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) Programs with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Citizen Corps Councils work to engage citizens in community service and build on community strengths to implement preparedness programs and carry out a local strategy to involve government, community leaders, and citizens in all-hazards preparedness and resilience. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program helps train people to be better prepared to respond to emergency situations in their communities. When emergencies happen, CERT members can give critical support to first responders, provide immediate assistance to victims, and organize spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site. CERT members can also help with non-emergency projects that help improve the safety of the community. Continue Reading

Mini-Grants Available for ‘Global Youth Service Day’ Projects in Montana

Apply by Friday, March 25

 Download Press Release

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) in partnership with  State Farm Companies Foundation (www.statefarm.com) and the Sodexo Foundation (www.sodexofoundation.org) announced today the availability of $150 mini-grants for up to  35 community projects in Montana that engage youth in service during Global Youth Service Day on April 15-17, 2011. 

Global Youth Service Day (gysd.org) is an annual campaign that celebrates and mobilizes the millions of children and youths who improve their communities each day of the year through service and service-learning. Established in 1988, GYSD is the largest service event in the world and is now celebrated in over 100 countries.

In Montana, 25 mini-grants will be awarded for general youth service projects and 10 mini-grants will be specifically awarded to projects targeting childhood hunger. According to the Department of Public Health and Human Services, our state has over 92,000 children who are living in households with food insecurity.

“Global Youth Service Day is a great opportunity for kids to make their communities aware of childhood hunger,” said Anna Whiting Sorrell, Director of the Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Organizations, schools, programs and individuals that coordinate and implement service projects for youths can apply.  Applications are due to the Governor’s Office of Community Service by Friday, March 25 at Noon.

The application form, additional guidelines, and an FAQ can be found on the website:  serve.mt.gov  

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Montana Conservation Corps Seeks Veterans for Summer Conservation Crews

3-Month Program combines Service, Conservation, Job Skills Training, and Education Awards

 Bozeman, MT - Montana Conservation Corps (mtcorps.org), announced today that it is seeking veterans, who want to continue serving their country in the great outdoors, for the Veterans Green Corps program, a summer experience that combines service, public lands conservation, job skills training and education awards. This is the first-ever MCC crew dedicated solely to veterans. MCC’S Veterans Green Corps is an AmeriCorps program.

“MCC’s Veterans Green Corps offers a unique opportunity for recently returned vets to support each other and transition to civilian life by leveraging their leadership experience, strong work ethic and team approach to meet conservation needs on public lands,”  said Jono McKinney, CEO and President of Montana Conservation Corps.

 Veterans Green Corps is a collaborative initiative of Montana Conservation Corps and Veterans Green Jobs (http://veteransgreenjobs.org/). Members reconnect with fellow soldiers and make new connections with the outdoors. Participants gain valuable experience through service projects that promote personal growth, job skills, and an ethic of natural resource stewardship – while taking an active role to serve our country in meaningful new ways.

Veterans Green Corps will be based out of Billings, Montana but the project work will be on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest in southern Wyoming and northern Colorado.  The entire project is focused on fuels reduction so an interest in using chainsaws and crosscut saws is essential.  Members receive S212 saw training certification through Colorado Fire Camp, and an AmeriCorps living stipend. Upon completion of the program, participants receive an AmeriCorps education award of $1132 dollars to pursue education opportunities and technical training.

Training begins in May. Interested veterans are encouraged to contact Tauzha Grantham at Montana Conservation Corps by phone: 406-651-1311 or email: tauzha@mtcorps.org. More information and applications are available online at www.mtcorps.org.  

 “Veterans are our nation’s ultimate volunteers,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service (www.serve.mt.gov). “MCC’s Veterans Green Corps provides an outstanding opportunity for Montana vets to continue serving our country in a new way.”

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  2011 ‘YOUTH SERVE MONTANA’ SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE TO HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

STUDENTS EARN $1,000 DOLLARS FOR COLLEGE BY GIVING 100 VOLUNTEER HOURS

-Download Press Release

Helena, MT –The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) and Montana Campus Compact (mtcompact.org), announced today that the 2011 Youth Serve Montana Scholarships are now available for up to 100 Montana high school seniors. It is the 6^th year for this exciting   scholarship opportunity aimed at students who have completed 100 hours of volunteer service in their community, by April 8, 2011.

 Each student who applies and qualifies can receive $1,000 dollars toward continued education at one of Montana Campus Compact’s (19) public, tribal, private, community, or technical colleges and universities.

 “This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize our students’ enthusiasm for volunteering,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “The Youth Serve Montana Scholarships are a great way to honor students who invest their time and talents in Montana, and want to stay here for college.”

 Applications, proof of volunteer service, and enrollment to a Montana post-secondary institution must be submitted to the Governor’s Office of Community Service by noon April 8, 2011.

 The application form, additional guidelines, and a scholarship FAQ can be found on the website:  serve.mt.gov

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MONTANANS TO BE HONORED FOR OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE -

Thursday, February 17 in Helena

First Lady Nancy Schweitzer and Lt. Gov. John Bohlinger Present Awards

Download Press Release

Helena – The Governor’s Office of Community Service and the Montana Commission on Community Service announced today the 2011 recipients of the  ServeMontana, ReadyMontana and the First Lady’s Math & Science Awards. The annual Awards are presented to outstanding national service members and community volunteers (individuals, groups, organizations and businesses) for their service in Montana.

The Awards will be handed out at a ServeMontana Symposium luncheon ceremony on Thursday, February 17^th at the Red Lion Colonial Hotel - Ballroom in Helena.

“We are excited to recognize these exceptional Montanans who are examples of how helping your neighbor can strengthen our communities,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service.

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Montana Volunteers and National Service Members Mobilizing for

25^th Anniversary of Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday –

National Day of Service

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”

-Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Helena –The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) joins with the Corporation for National and Community Service (nationalservice.gov), an independent federal agency, to urge Montanans to volunteer on Monday, January 17, in honor of the 25^th Anniversary of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday.

“I hope Montanans will think of the MLK Day of Service as a ‘day on, not a day off.’” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “We encourage the public to reach out and help others through community service opportunities, donations to local food banks or by simply shoveling the sidewalk for a neighbor.”

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Public Asked to Nominate Montanans for Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards

 Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service in partnership with First Lady Nancy Schweitzer and the Montana Commission on Community Service announced today that nominations are being accepted for 2011 Serve Montana Awards, Ready Montana Awards and First Lady’s Math and Science Awards.

 The annual Awards to be given out in February, recognize outstanding Montana individuals, organizations, groups, and national service members dedicated to community and volunteer service. 

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OUTSTANDING VETERAN TO BE RECOGNIZED AS “VOLUNTEER OF THE GAME” at GRIZ/CATS GAME

– Saturday, November 20-

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that Army veteran  Sgt. Andrea Montee will be recognized for her outstanding military/veterans service as the “Volunteer of the Game” on Saturday, November 20 at the Griz/Cats game in Missoula.

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CAN THE CATS/CAN THE GRIZ FOOD DONATION DRIVE

Donate a Can at GRIZ Basketball: Get FREE ADMISSION

-Friday, November 19 Game - at 3:00pm

 Helena, MT – UM Griz basketball joins the Can the Cats/Can the Griz food donation drive competition this week, as donation boxes will be placed at the Griz basketball game at Dahlberg Arena on Friday, November 19 at 3:00pm.

 If you bring a canned food donation, you will receive FREE ADMISSION to the Friday Griz basketball game. 

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OUTSTANDING MATH AND SCIENCE VOLUNTEER TO BE RECOGNIZED at UM GRIZ GAME

– Saturday, November 13-

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that Ryan Smith will be recognized for his outstanding volunteer service in Montana as the  “Volunteer of the Game” at Saturday’s UM Griz football game.  

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OUTSTANDING MATH and SCIENCE VOLUNTEER TO BE RECOGNIZED at MSU BOBCATS GAME

–Saturday, November 6-

 Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that MSU Chemistry Professor Trevor Douglas will be recognized as the “Volunteer of the Game” during the MSU Bobcats' football game on Saturday, November 6.

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 CAN THE CATS/CAN THE GRIZ FOOD DRIVE KICKS OFF

serve.mt.gov

 Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today that the Annual Can the Cats/ Can the Griz food drive competition kicks off on Saturday, November 6, 2010.

 The Can the Cats/ Can the Griz food drive is a competition between Montana State University and the University of Montana that is lead by Montana Campus Corps (AmeriCorps) members at each University.

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HOPA MOUNTAIN AWARDS LEARN AND SERVE AMERICA GRANTS

New Youth-Led Service-Learning Projects focus on Healthier Communities

 Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today that Hopa Mountain (www.hopamountain.org), a nonprofit organization based in Bozeman, has awarded Learn and Serve America grants to six Youth Leaders in Service projects, through a partnership with the Corporation for National and Community Service, an independent federal agency.  Each project will receive a grant award of $15,000.

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OUTSTANDING YOUTH VOLUNTEER TO BE RECOGNIZED at MSU BOBCATS GAME

-Saturday, October 23-

 Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that MSU freshman Madison Nixon will be recognized as the Youth “Volunteer of the Game” at Saturday's MSU Bobcats' football game for her outstanding community service to the Bozeman community.  

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OUTSTANDING YOUTH VOLUNTEER TO BE RECOGNIZED at UM GRIZ GAME

– Saturday, October 23-

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that Roy Handley will be recognized for his outstanding volunteer service as the Youth “Volunteer of the Game” at Saturday’s University of Montana Grizzlies football game.  

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First Lady and First Interstate Bank Kick-off One Warm Coat drive in Montana

Campaign Encourages Montanans to Help Keep Neighbors Warm this Winter

HELENA—First Lady Nancy Schweitzer today joined First Interstate Bank and One Warm Coat^® to kick-off a two-week coat drive across Montana.  The First Lady's participation is part of the Governor’s Office of Community Service new Winter Ready Montana initiative (serve.mt.gov) that highlights winter ready tips and resources and encourages Montanans to help others this winter season.

“As Montanans are getting winter ready, it’s important to help make sure your neighbors and those in need are ready, too,” said First Lady Nancy Schweitzer.  “I encourage all Montanans to join me in giving a coat to help keep someone warm this winter.”

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OUTSTANDING MISSOULA COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER TO BE RECOGNIZED AT GRIZ GAME

-Saturday, October 9-

serve.mt.gov

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that outstanding Missoula community volunteer Grace Lucas will be recognized as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s UM Grizzlies home game.

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OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER TO BE RECOGNIZED AT MSU BOBCATS GAME

– SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 -

serve.mt.gov

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that Loren Bough of Big Sky will be recognized as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s MSU Bobcats’ home game.

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 2011 AmeriCorps Grant Funding Available

Helena, MT- The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today that AmeriCorps State and National ‘Competitive’ and ‘Planning’ grant award opportunities are available from the Corporation for National and Community Serve, an independent federal agency, for Montana organizations and Indian tribes interested in utilizing AmeriCorps as a solution for critical issues facing local communities and our state.

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‘SENIOR’ VOLUNTEER TO BE RECOGNIZED AT MSU BOBCATS GAME

– SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25-

serve.mt.gov

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that Bozeman resident Beverly Barnhart will be recognized as the “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s MSU Bobcats’ home game.

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UM ALUMNI TO BE RECOGNIZED AS “VOLUNTEER OF THE GAME”

– SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 –

-GRIZ Homecoming -

serve.mt.gov

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that outstanding volunteer and UM Alumni John Manz will be recognized as “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s Montana Grizzlies homecoming game.

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MONTANANS CELEBRATE SENIOR VOLUNTEERS

‘SENIOR CORPS WEEK’ (SEPT. 20-24)

serve.mt.gov

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today that all Montanans should celebrate Montana’s Senior Corps volunteers during the FIRST EVER ‘Senior Corps Week’ (September 20-24), a week-long national initiative designed to create awareness, recognize and thank 55+ aged national service volunteers for the impact they’re making in their communities.

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GOVERNOR SCHWEITZER RECOGNIZES “VOLUNTEER OF THE GAME”

– MSU BOBCAT STADIUM-

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that Volunteer Liann Meyer, founder of Montana Supporting Soldiers, an all volunteer non-profit organization that provides care packages, cards and letters to soldiers overseas, will be recognized by Governor Brian Schweitzer as the  “Volunteer of the Game” during the first quarter of Saturday’s MSU Bobcats home game.

The Governor’s Office of Community Service is recognizing outstanding community volunteers at home games throughout the 2010 Bobcats’ football season. 

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9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance
Montanans Encouraged to Volunteer

Helena, MT - In honor of September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, the Governor’s Office of Community Service encourages Montanans to help a neighbor in need and/or participate in volunteer service activities in their local communities.

“The most important thing anyone can do is lend a helping hand, especially at this time when we honor the victims of 9/11 and those who stepped forward to serve,” said Jan Lombardi, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service. “We thank all Montanans who volunteer to make someone else’s life a little bit better.”

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Montana AmeriCorps Program Recruiting Young Adults to Serve

Earn $1,132 toward College Tuition

serve.mt.gov

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service(serve.mt.gov) announced today that Young Adult Service Corps (YASC), an AmeriCorps program of the Jobs for Montana Graduates Foundation, is currently recruiting 110 members for the 2010-2011 school year.

 “We are excited about our recruitment efforts this year and getting Montana’s young people involved in service while earning money for college,” said Sarah Sadowski, Director for the Young Adult Service Corps. “Our AmeriCorps members gain job and leadership skills while helping their schools and home communities.”

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‘FIRST RESPONDER’ VOLUNTEER TO BE RECOGNIZED AT BOBCATS GAME

– SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4-

“Volunteer of the Game” Kick Off

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that Volunteer ‘First Responder’ Mo Volkman will be recognized as “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s MSU Bobcats opening home game.

“Montana has a long tradition of neighbor helping neighbor,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “We congratulate and thank Mo and all Montanans who volunteer, they are truly our unsung heroes and it is their hard work and dedication that helps make our state great.”

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‘FIRST RESPONDER’ VOLUNTEER TO BE RECOGNIZED AT GRIZ GAME

– SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4-

“Volunteer of the Game” Kick Off

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service (serve.mt.gov) announced today that Volunteer ‘First Responder’ Marvin Hess will be recognized as “Volunteer of the Game” during Saturday’s UM Grizzlies opening home game.

 “Montana has a long tradition of neighbor helping neighbor,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “We congratulate and thank Marvin and all Montanans who volunteer, they are truly our unsung heroes and it is their hard work and dedication that helps make our state great.”

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MONTANA MIDDLE SCHOOLS ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR ‘SERVICE PROJECT’ GRANT FUNDS

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today that the deadline has been extended for Montana Middle Schools to apply for $5,000 dollars in federal grant funds/per school for service learning projects that include: environmental issues, student and community health, and natural and manmade disaster preparedness.

The national program is called ‘STEMester of Service’ and it targets middle schools with disadvantaged youth. The program is aimed at engaging educators and students in addressing critical environmental needs and connecting them to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) curricula.

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ARE YOU READY? ‘FIRE READY MONTANA’ INITIATIVE LAUNCHED

Helena, MT – The Governor’s Office of Community Service announced today the 2^nd annual state-wide ‘Fire Ready Montana’ initiative. This initiative promotes ‘fire-wise’ tips and family preparedness steps for all Montanans. 

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