Big hearts: Give Big returns, helps local nonprofits

Give Big Gallatin Valley — a 24-hour slate of fundraising events and promotions for nonprofits and charities — returns Thursday, May 1.

Give Big events run from 6 p.m. Thursday to 6 p.m. Friday, May 2.

The effort is put on by the One Valley Community Foundation with the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation as the headline sponsor.

There are more than 250 local nonprofits involved in the fundraising efforts.

That includes the Belgrade Community Coalition, Montana Avalanche Dogs, Manhattan Senior Center, Belgrade Community Library Foundation, Salvation Army, Bozeman Symphony, Gallatin History Museum and other groups.

“What started as a single day of giving has grown into a movement that defines what’s possible when a community comes together,” said Bridget Wilkinson, president and CEO of the One Valley Community Foundation. “This year especially, we’re seeing rising needs across nearly every sector at a time when traditional funding sources are becoming less reliable. In the face of that, Give Big is a powerful reminder that local support is not only possible, it’s transformative. When we show up for our nonprofits, we invest in the future we want to build together.”

Since 2015, Give Big events have helped local nonprofits raise $17.4 million, organizers said. There will also be $30,000 worth of prizes at events across the local area.

“The Yellowstone Club Community Foundation is proud to support Give Big Gallatin Valley,” said Ciara Wolfe, Yellowstone Club Community Foundation’s vice president of philanthropy. “Year after year, we’ve seen the powerful impact it has on our nonprofit partners and the increased awareness it brings to the sector throughout our community.”

Events, how to give and participating groups can be found at www.GiveBigGV.org.