I hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful Montana summer. The huckleberries are ripe, the air is clear—and the Great Fish Community Challenge is almost here!

From August 12 to September 12, a record 85 Flathead Valley nonprofits will participate in this year’s Challenge. Over the past decade, the Great Fish Community Challenge has become a lifeline for many organizations, raising over $35 million to support local youth programs, conservation projects, food banks, trails, the arts, mental health, and much more.

But what makes this giving campaign truly special is how it works—and why it’s the perfect way to support Flathead Valley nonprofits.

When you give to local nonprofits through the Great Fish Community Challenge, your gift goes further. Whitefish Community Foundation provides a percentage match on the first $25,000 raised by each nonprofit. Last year, the match totaled $1.1 million thanks to our Circle of Giving donors and others who supported the Great Fish Match Fund.

Donating is simple and impactful. With one transaction, you can support multiple nonprofits and receive a single tax receipt. There are no fees or overhead—100% of your gift goes directly to the nonprofits you select. Whitefish Community Foundation covers all administrative costs of the Challenge, and donors can give with a credit card, check, appreciated stock, a charitable distribution from their IRA, private foundation, or from a Donor Advised Fund. 

The collective impact of the Challenge is truly inspiring. Last year, more than 4,000 donors gave nearly 14,000 individual gifts, raising $6.7 million for 80 Flathead Valley nonprofits. This year, with 85 participating organizations, we’re aiming even higher.

Help us kick off this year’s Challenge at the Great Fish Launch Party on Tuesday, August 12, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Glacier Bank Park, home of the Glacier Range Riders. This free, family-friendly event is your chance to explore 85 interactive nonprofit booths, enjoy delicious food and beverages, and take part in activities for all ages. Plus, you’ll be entered into a free raffle for a chance to win one of five $1,000 grants to the participating nonprofit of your choice. 

Be sure to check out the August 10 edition of the Daily Inter Lake for the official Guide to the 2025 Challenge. It includes information on every participating nonprofit, how they plan to use the funds raised, and how to stretch the impact of your gift. 

The Great Fish Community Challenge is all about coming together to strengthen our community. Your support—no matter the amount—can help our local nonprofits thrive.

Thank you for making Whitefish Community Foundation the Flathead Valley’s home for charitable giving for 25 years. Let’s make this year’s Challenge the most impactful yet!

Alan Davis is the president and CEO of Whitefish Community Foundation. He can be reached at [email protected] or (406) 863-1781.