Governor Gianforte Recognizes Montana Makes a Difference Day

Montana 250th Commission, ServeMontana encourage volunteerism to celebrate America's 250th

Governor's Office

HELENA, Mont. - In partnership with the Governor's Office of Community Service and the Montana 250th Commission, Governor Greg Gianforte today proclaimed October 24 as "Montana Makes a Difference Day" to encourage Montanans to volunteer in their communities as part of Montana's celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

"Volunteering brings people together and strengthens our communities," Gov. Gianforte said. "Neighbors serving neighbors is part of who we are as Montanans and spending time helping others is as a great way to wrap up America's 250th. On Montana Makes a Difference Day, I encourage all Montanans to support their community by participating in two hours of volunteer service."

In May, Gov. Gianforte joined the Montana 250th Commission and ServeMontana to launch "Two Lights Montana," a statewide initiative aimed at encouraging Montanans to engage in a year of learning, civic engagement, and community service during the semiquincentennial of the United States.

On Saturday, October 24, Montanans are invited to find an opportunity in their community such as volunteering at a food bank, senior center, hospital, community garden, local city or state park clean up, trail days, thrift store, homeless shelter, animal shelter, fairground, library, local community event, fire department, or with a local club such as Habitat for Humanity, Lions, Kiwanis, or Rotary. In addition, college students are encouraged to connect with the on-campus civic engagement office or through the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement for opportunities.

"Serving our communities is an essential part of active citizenship and civic engagement. The Montana 250th Commission is proud to support efforts to bring people together and tackle challenges facing society. I thank everyone across Montana who gives of their time this weekend," said Chris Averill, chair of the Montana 250th Commission.

In 2023, nearly 344,000 Montanans contributed over 27 million hours of service through organizations, making Montana the eighth state in the nation with the highest rate of volunteerism. On average, over 37 percent of Montana residents formally volunteer with organizations and 68 percent of residents informally help others by exchanging favors with their neighbors.

A full list of volunteer opportunities can be viewed here. Volunteers are encouraged to take and post a photo using the hashtag #TwoLightsMT, then log their time on America Gives here.

The governor's proclamation can be viewed here.

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