Dear Editor: MT Nonprofit Association Advocating for Montana's Nonprofits

Dear Editor,

At the Montana Nonprofit Association, we strive to uplift and celebrate the contributions and impact of the nonprofit sector across our state. As we approach the 2025 Legislative Session, this work is more important than ever.

More than 8,000 charitable nonprofits operate across every region of the state providing essential services and creating the communities we love. Nonprofits are an integral part of communities, providing health services, youth programs, arts and culture, food assistance, services for seniors, affordable housing, conservation, economic development, and more. Nonprofits are also economic drivers, employing more than 10% of our total workforce and paying the highest share of wages of any industry.

Nonprofits bring on-the-ground experience and a deep understanding of the most pressing issues affecting our state. This legislative session, we call on Montana's legislators to work in partnership with nonprofits in crafting meaningful policy solutions to issues such as childcare, housing, and healthcare. Nonprofits are effective and efficient partners with state and local government in serving Montana citizens. We urge legislators to support and protect Montana's nonprofit sector so that we can continue to carry out our missions and be an active partner in creating healthy, vibrant Montana communities.

The challenges facing our state require collaboration and partnership across government, private business, and nonprofit sectors. This legislative session, MNA will be advocating for and amplifying the voices of Montana's nonprofits, as we bring community-based, people-centered solutions to the table.

Sincerely,

ADAM JESPERSEN

Helena, Montana