Give Big Gallatin Valley returns to Bozeman with no donation fees

BOZEMAN, Mont. — Give Big Gallatin Valley is set to return later this week with a new change aimed at helping donors and nonprofits keep more of every gift. 

The fundraiser, organized by One Valley Community Foundation, will mark its 12th year and includes more than 260 nonprofits across Gallatin County. This year's goal is to bring in at least 6,000 donors and raise $3 million. 

Anna Burkholder with One Valley Community Foundation explained how the event has already made a major mark on the area. 

“Our community has raised over $20.4 million for 489 local nonprofits. So, yeah, it's been a really impactful initiative for our community and we love to just watch it grow year over year,” said Burkholder. 

This year, donations are set to work a little differently. Processing fees have been eliminated, which means 100% of each donation will go to the nonprofit selected by the donor. This is thanks to a donation from the Jill and Nicholas Woodman Foundation. 

Burkholder said that change could make giving easier for people taking part. 

“I think at this point, we've all gotten really used to fees. And any time you get to checkout, it's just a little frustrating to add those additional fees on. So, we're hoping that this makes donors have a better giving experience and also maybe give a little bigger this year,” Burkholder said. 

“What I hope donors understand is that nonprofits are touching every piece of our life. They really contribute this amazing culture to our community that might not be possible without them,” she added. 

One of the participating groups is Cancer Support Community of Montana, based in Bozeman. 

The nonprofit provides wraparound services for people affected by cancer. Its programs included individual and group therapy, strength training, nutrition classes and a wig program, explained development coordinator Aspen Washburn. 

The services at CSC go beyond physical care. 

“They focus on not only your physical needs but also your emotional and psychosocial needs, which is super important in seeing participants just, you know, walk in and tell you their story. It's so beautiful and it's so impactful,” Washburn said. 

All of the services CSC provides are free of charge, thanks to fundraising events like Give Big. 

This year, CSC Bozeman is aiming to raise $40,000 to continue their work. They are also in the process of setting up a new location in Helena. 

During Give Big, Cancer Support Community and other nonprofits are planning pop-up events across town so people can learn more about their services. 

CSC will have a donor lounge set up at Steep Mountain Teahouse and a free waffle bar at their headquarters on 11th Avenue. They will also have a treadmill event set up at the Ridge Athletic Club. 

Give Big Gallatin Valley is scheduled to run from April 30 at 6 p.m. to May 1 at 6 p.m. You can learn more about Give Big here.