History of Northwest Montana United Way
Northwest Montana United Way has been a cornerstone of community support and collective action in the Flathead Valley for over five decades — rooted in a nationwide movement to unite charitable giving and strengthen local human services.
Origins: From National Movement to Local Impact
The idea that would eventually shape the Northwest Montana United Way began over 135 years ago. In 1887, in Denver, Colorado, community leaders launched a cooperative fundraising campaign to support multiple health and welfare agencies — igniting a model that would become the United Way movement.
Across the early 20th century, similar “Community Chest” organizations spread nationwide, pooling resources and coordinating services in cities and towns. By 1948, more than 1,000 communities had established United Way or Community Chest organizations.
In 1969, United Way organizations formally adopted the name “United Way” across the United States, reflecting a unified identity and shared mission of improving lives through collective action.
Establishing a Presence in Northwest Montana
In 1950, a Community Chest was founded in Flathead County, marking the earliest formalized effort to coordinate local charitable fundraising in the region. This initiative laid the groundwork for what would become the Northwest Montana United Way.
Building on that legacy, Northwest Montana United Way was officially formed in 1969, the same year the broader national network solidified its identity as United Way. Since its inception, the organization has operated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, raising funds and providing leadership to improve education, financial stability, and health throughout Northwest Montana.
Mission-Driven Growth
From its early days, Northwest Montana United Way focused on building bridges between donors, volunteers, and local nonprofit partners.
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Its mission — “Connecting the community to build a brighter tomorrow” — reflects a long-standing commitment to collaborative impact.
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The organization works to address root causes of community challenges by supporting programs that help children succeed in school, strengthen families, and meet basic needs.
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Nearly all funds raised locally are invested back into Northwest Montana, ensuring donations directly benefit neighbors in need.
Over the years, the United Way has supported a wide variety of community initiatives — from volunteer tax preparation and holiday assistance to emergency relief and referral services.
Gateway Community Center: A Collaborative Hub (2009 – Present)
One of the organization’s most ambitious undertakings began in 2009, when Northwest Montana United Way leased space in the former Gateway West Mall in Kalispell. This vision grew into the Gateway Community Center — a nonprofit campus designed to bring services under one roof and increase access to help for the community.
In 2015, United Way purchased the bulk of the former mall property, transforming it into a thriving home for nonprofit partners. Today, the Gateway Community Center houses more than 22 local agencies, serving thousands of residents through coordinated programs and affordable workspace.
This campus model reflects a deep commitment to collaboration, making it easier for individuals and families to find support without navigating multiple locations.
Leadership and Evolution
Over the years, Northwest Montana United Way’s leadership has guided the organization through growth and challenge alike. Long-time Executive Director Sherry Stevens led the organization for over three decades, raising millions of dollars for community agencies and championing the Gateway project.
In recent years, leadership transitions have emphasized transparency, community engagement, and rebuilding trust with nonprofit partners — ensuring United Way remains responsive and accountable to the people it serves.
Today and Looking Forward
Now more than 55 years strong, Northwest Montana United Way continues to serve as a vital network connector, fundraising engine, and community partner.
With a broad coalition of volunteers, donors, and service providers, United Way continues to adapt to evolving community needs — from financial stability programs to comprehensive referrals and emergency services.
Northwest Montana United Way remains committed to its founding vision: mobilizing local generosity, fostering partnership, and strengthening the social fabric of Northwest Montana — helping individuals and families thrive now and for generations to come.History of United Way World Wide
On October 16, 1887, in Denver, Colorado, a woman, a priest, two ministers, and a rabbi came together with a simple goal: to make their community a better place for everyone through cooperative action. Calling themselves the “Charity Organization Society,” they planned and coordinated local services and conducted a single fundraising campaign to support more than 20 local health and welfare agencies. That first fundraising campaign raised $21,700 (over $700,000 in today’s dollars) and ignited a movement that would become known as “Community Chest,” “United Fund,” and, by 1970, United Way.
More than 135 years later – true to our founding spirit – whenever there is a need in our communities, United Way is there. Like our founders, we take a cooperative approach to tackling the toughest challenges, actively listening and responding to local needs through the power of partnerships and collective action. And today, our reach across tens of thousands of communities means we can share innovations and scale impact to improve lives around the world.
From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working towards a future where every person in every community can thrive. Join us!