LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dear Friends,

As I enter my 8th year as the Executive Director (and 24th year with the organization), I’m proud to acknowledge the continued impact of our services as a result of the close collaboration between the local school districts, chambers, businesses, donors, volunteers and residents.

In reflecting on what I love about this town, even through years of change, the constant is that we choose to live in Bozeman because it's a beautiful, safe and thriving community - but a thriving community does not happen by accident. We have to invest in it, nurture it and put in the work. Every one of us has a responsibility to positively contribute to this place we all call home. We all need to care about the experiences and mental health of all of our neighbors.

Thrive knows the value of creating a place where parents can ask for help and where our school-age children know they have the whole community in their corner. We know raising kids is challenging even in the best of circumstances and everyone benefits when parents and children have the resources they need.

The CDC Youth Risk Behavior Report came out in February 2023 and highlights the necessity of school-based strategies to improve adolescents' health and well-being. It specifically speaks to the work Thrive is doing in Bozeman and Big Sky Schools, and the work Thrive will be doing in Belgrade in the fall.

The work Thrive is doing and the impact we are seeing is 100% thanks to the support of our supporters and the volunteers who dedicate their time to helping our community thrive.

We are thankful for those of you who choose to be part of the solution and ensure that this valley stays a safe, accepting, healthy and welcoming place for all, now and for years to come.

Carrie Gilbertson Thrive Executive Director