Impact Under the Big Sky: Stories of Philanthropy in Montana

In this episode, we discuss how the Women's Foundation of Montana works hand in hand with the Montana Community Foundation to help improve the lives of women and girls across the state.

You don't need to be a Rockefeller to be philanthropic and make an impact in your community. On today's podcast, Mary Rutherford sits down with some friends of the Montana Community Foundation who all give incredible examples of how to build a legacy from modest means and creative ways.

In this episode of Impact Under the Big Sky, host Heather Ohs sits down with Dan Trost, Senior Wealth Management Advisor at DA Davidson and Trost Wealth Management Group in Helena. Together, they explore how retirement planning, estate planning, and tax strategies intersect with charitable giving and legacy building. Dan shares how he guides clients in aligning their financial goals with meaningful philanthropy, and how working with Montana Community Foundation can help turn generosity into lasting impact across the state.

In this episode of Impact Under the Big Sky, host Heather Ohs is joined by Corey Kopp, Impact Programs Operations Manager at Montana Community Foundation, and Celia Fedderhoff, a junior studying Finance at Montana State University. Together, they explore scholarships from two powerful perspectives: Celia shares her personal journey as a scholarship recipient and the difference it has made in her education, while Corey explains how MCF helps donors design scholarships that connect directly with students across Montana. It’s a heartfelt look at how generosity and guidance can open doors, transform futures, and strengthen communities.

In this episode of Impact Under the Big Sky, host Heather Ohs is joined by estate planning experts Jessica Stewart-Kuntz and Jim Bennett from the Montana Community Foundation to unpack one of Montana’s most powerful giving tools—the Montana Endowment Tax Credit (METC). They explore how this unique state tax credit encourages legacy giving, helps donors make a lasting impact, and supports communities across the Big Sky State. Whether you're a donor, advisor, or nonprofit leader, this conversation offers valuable insights into how MCF can help you turn generosity into long-term change.

October is Estate Planning Month, and in this episode of Impact Under the Big Sky, host Heather Ohs is joined by Montana Community Foundation’s estate planning experts Jim Bennett and Jessica Stewart-Kuntz. Together, they explore the power of legacy giving—how thoughtful planning today can shape the future for generations to come. Whether you're just beginning to consider your options or looking to refine your philanthropic goals, this conversation offers practical insights and heartfelt stories about making a lasting difference in Montana

In this episode of Impact Under the Big Sky, host Heather Ohs (Gift and Estate Planning Coordinator) sits down with Montana Community Foundation’s Philanthropy Team: Jim Bennett, Alley Fontenot, and Sara “Whittie” Whittle. Together, they pull back the curtain on how MCF helps donors make meaningful contributions across the state—from supporting existing causes to creating new ones tailored to their passions. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the people and processes that make philanthropy personal, powerful, and deeply rooted in Montana’s communities.

In this eye-opening episode of Impact Under the Big Sky, host Heather Ohs is joined by Marsha Goetting, Extension Specialist at Montana State University and a passionate advocate for estate planning. Marsha has traveled to communities large and small across Montana, educating residents on the importance of preparing for the future. With a recent survey revealing that 7 out of 10 Montanans don’t have a will, this conversation dives into why estate planning matters, how to get started, and the peace of mind it can bring to families across the state.

Golf is more than a game—it’s a way to bring people together. In this episode of Impact Under the Big Sky, host Heather Ohs (Gift & Estate Planner at Montana Community Foundation) sits down with Nick Dietzen, Executive Director of the Montana State Golf Association. They discuss the state of golf in Montana and how MCF plays a crucial role in helping MSGA connect with communities statewide. Through innovative programs and partnerships, they’re working to make golf accessible to more people, fostering growth for the sport across the Big Sky State.

In this episode of Impact Under The Big Sky, MCF President and CEO Mary Rutherford, alongside Community & Economic Vitality Program Officer Taylor Crowley, sit down with Ellen Coker and Darrell Grogan of the Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County. They explore the powerful incentives available to Montana’s local community foundations and share firsthand stories of how these programs drive meaningful change. From financial sustainability to transformative local impact, discover how these resources help communities thrive when people unite for a common purpose.

Join MCF's own Kylie Gursky as she sits down for a discussion with a few of Montana's women in key leadership roles throughout the state. They discuss the current landscape of women's rights, reproductive health and so much more.

Join us for a discussion with Jennifer Anderson and Taylor Crowl about how rural communities in Montana are re-imagining philanthropy in the state.

Sit down with us as we talk with Montana Community Foundation's President and CEO Mary Rutherford about why we're starting a podcast, what her role here at MCF entails and a few stories that have impacted her during here tenure here.