Kyle Lantz introduced five organizations receiving Rotary Community Grant Awards.
1. Eagle Mount – Presented by Lynn Mullowney Cabrera
Eagle Mount provides adaptive recreation and community engagement for over 700 individuals annually, including youth and adults with various disabilities. Programs include skiing, summer camp, cycling, and field trips. Scholarships allow low-income families to participate.
2. Scouting America (Montana Council) – Presented by Levi Knight
Levi serves as Field Director, overseeing 547 youth and 198 adults in Billings. The grant supports the Scout Reach program, targeting underserved populations in urban and rural areas, particularly at Friendship House. The program runs twice monthly for six weeks.
3. Yellowstone Historical Society – Presented by Lou Ponech
The grant funded an informational sign about Willard Fraser, a four-term mayor of Billings who died in office in 1972. The new 4x2 foot sign, similar to Skyline Trail markers, will be placed in front of a boulder on the Metro side, facing the river and Emerald Hills. The sign highlights Fraser’s achievements: doubling city parks, saving Pictograph Caves, and attracting film production. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for June 11 at 1:30 PM, followed by a reception at the Northern Hotel.
4. Billings Symphony – Presented by Mario Lopez
The grant supports Beyond the Stage, a rebranded version of the Explore Music program, focusing on education and community engagement. Last season, 263 free programs were offered under 13 initiatives.
5. Community Leadership and Development Inc. – Presented by Kaylee Thompson
Kaylee thanked Rotary for supporting the YouthWorks program. The program is based on the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) framework, countering adverse childhood experiences with consistent, positive relationships.
