NONPROFITS

The report places Missoula well ahead of the national average, both in the money spent by local arts and culture nonprofits, and money spent by the residents who support the organizations.

"Our mission is to perpetuate the use of the wilderness with horses, and preserve the wilderness as it was back then for future people — for hikers, for riders," Velin said. "And not just for recreation, but for understanding what the wilderness is all about, what it feels like to be out amongst nature, undisturbed by man."

The annual NEA grant is "a large chunk of our current and future funding," said Kristin Han Burgoyne, one of the council’s interim co-directors.

"So many people I think probably see a tragedy like the death of Deputy Moore and say I wish I could help I wish there was something I could do. We see the Guardian Fund as something you know that could coincide with that," said Sheriff Tony Harbaugh from Cuter County.

"Money cannot replace a family’s loved one, but it can help alleviate financial worry. We
want to make it easier for Montanans to help take care of their own," Flathead County
Sheriff Chuck Curry said.

Missoula Works is an organization started by the non-profit Missoula Interfaith Collaborative(MIC) with a mission to employ anyone committed to work.