Missoula, MT – Governor Greg Gianforte was in Missoula on Tuesday for the second day of his annual ‘12 Days of Giving,’ marking a significant contribution to the United Way of Missoula. The governor donated $20,000 to the nonprofit, continuing his support for early childhood education and literacy programs in Montana.
The funds will support the United Way’s partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that has been providing free books to young children since its inception in 1995. Through the initiative, over 3,000 children in Missoula and Mineral Counties receive age-appropriate books delivered to their homes each month. The goal is to ensure that children aged 0 to 5 have access to quality reading materials, helping to lay a strong foundation for their education.
Governor Gianforte’s donation represents a quarter of his annual salary and reflects his personal and familial commitment to the cause. His wife, Susan Gianforte, who has been a longtime advocate for early education, expressed her enthusiasm for the expansion of the program statewide.
“I was sold on the idea when I learned about what Dolly Parton was doing with the Imagination Library. Providing a free book every month to a child’s home is such an impactful way to support early literacy,” said Susan Gianforte. “I wanted to see it available to every child in Montana.”
United Way of Missoula CEO, Susan Hay Patrick, highlighted the importance of the donation, noting the challenges many nonprofits face when fundraising. She also emphasized the positive outcomes for children enrolled in the Imagination Library.
“Every study shows that kids enrolled in Imagination Library enter kindergarten ready to learn,” Patrick said. “To receive such a generous donation is incredibly moving and will help us continue our work to improve early childhood literacy.”
Founded in 1931, United Way of Missoula has long been committed to supporting local communities through initiatives focused on early childhood education, mental health, and stable housing. The nonprofit raises approximately $1 million annually, which is reinvested into local programs and services. As part of the larger United Way network, which includes 1,800 affiliates worldwide, the Missoula branch has become a key player in supporting the needs of its community.
With the holiday season underway, Governor Gianforte’s donation serves as a reminder of the impact that charitable giving can have on communities. As the state continues to navigate the challenges of fundraising, the hope is that others will be inspired to contribute to causes that make a difference.
