Opportunities From: United Way of Yellowstone County

Poverty Simulation

Join us for an immersive Community Poverty Simulation, where participants experience the difficult decisions and challenges that individuals and families facing financial hardship navigate every day.

How It Works:

Participants are assigned a real-life scenario of someone facing financial hardship.Community partner agencies will serve as key resources—banks, employers, schools, health centers, and more.Over four 13-minute sessions (representing four weeks), participants must navigate daily life—finding employment, paying bills, caring for family, and accessing vital services.A guided debrief will follow, fostering meaningful discussion and collaborative action.

Why Participate?

Gain a new perspective on the struggles faced by many in our community.Engage with local organizations working to address the needs of neighbors.Learn how you can take action to make a difference.

This event is open to all community members. Whether you are a business leader, nonprofit professional, student, or concerned citizen, your participation matters!

What past participants say…

“I was surprised at how angry I was… I was like whoa, I bet if this was something in real life, it would be unimaginably”

“Just eye opening…”

Date:        Monday August 24Time:        8:30am-11:30am (Check in at 8:30am and done by 11:30am)

Location:   United Way office at 2173 Overland Avenue. 

Poverty is a reality for many individuals and families.  But unless you've experienced poverty, it's difficult to truly understand. The Poverty Simulation is a profoundly moving experience. The simulation allows participants to gain increased awareness of the financial barriers, and a better understanding of the challenges faced by those living in poverty by "spending an hour in someone else's shoes". Sign Up:  Click Here
Questions: mdickerson@uwyellowstone.org or 406-272-8506

 

CLICK HERE to sign upAll volunteer pourers must be Montana TIPS certified by July 10.

Click here to take class: https://rserving.com/  Responsible Serving of Alcohol- On-Premises Responsible Serving of Alcohol.  Cost $8.95

Volunteer Shift Times12:30 PM – 4:00 PM3:30 PM – 7:00 PM6:30 PM – 10:00 PM

Volunteers may sign up for multiple shifts.

All volunteer pourers must be Montana TIPS certified by July 10.Must be 21 years of age or olderMust complete Montana TIPS certification before the eventMake sure to have your certification on you while volunteeringVolunteer Perks & SuppliesVolunteers will be provided with a plastic sampling glass to sample beer while on shift.Bottled water will be available throughout the event. Please contact your shift leader if additional water is needed.

"Why United Way"

So why are we looking for volunteers to pour beer?

United Way will be collecting school supplies for our Operation School Supply drive, which helps local students start the school year prepared and ready to learn. With more than 1,000 people attending Brews & BBQ each year, this event provides a fantastic opportunity to collect much-needed school supplies while raising awareness about United Way's programs and impact in our community. It's also a great chance to connect with new people and introduce them to the work we do throughout Yellowstone County.

CLICK HERE to sign up.  

Last year we had over 600 students register from all over the Billings and surrounding areas to receive a backpack. Having new school supplies ensure every student starts the school year equipped and confident. Access to fresh school supplies—such as notebooks, pencils, backpacks, and more—helps level the playing field and supports a positive learning environment. When students have the tools they need from day one, they are more engaged, motivated, and ready to learn. New supplies not only meet practical needs but also boost self-esteem and excitement for the school year ahead. By contributing, you're helping students thrive academically and emotionally. 

We will need help with set up, during event and clean up.  Various shifts available.  For more information push on the CLICK HERE link. 

CLICK HERE to sign-up to volunteer

Help launch United Way's season of caring and giving by supporting Operation School Supply.

Together, we can ensure that every student has the supplies they need for a successful school year.

We need help in collecting and orgainizing school supplies during our Operation School Supply Drop off day.  

Then on August 11 & 12 students can come and pick out a new backpack and school supplies. 

Lunch will be provided. 

August 6 from 10 am - 2 pm

CLICK HERE to sign-up to volunteer

Are you someone who is good with technology?  Do you like teaching kids?  If you answered yes to these questions then come volunteer for Code Girls.

 

Help assist Code Girls Teacher teach 4th-8th grade girls weekly after school throughout the year and for summer camps Curriculum provided for students to learn the basics of computer science and business Each class meets for 1 hour a week As a volunteer you can empower girls to learn valuable skills and gain confidence We will need volunteers at the following locations:                Meadowlark School: Wednesdays from 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm                Arrowhead School: Tuesdays from 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm                Big Sky School: Wednesdays from 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm                Boulder, Highland, Burlington and Lewis & Clark are TBD. If interested in this volunteer opportunity hit respond

ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEES & TASK TEAMS United Way's Engagement and Volunteer Center Council coordinates and oversees several sub-committees (on-going) and task teams (specific activity or task).  They  provide support for various programs and activities.  At this time there are openings on the following:

Committees:   Disaster Services Leadership Team (DSLT)

Task Teams:    Diaper Drive (delivery date April 20), Day of Action (event on June 21) , Operation School Supply (delivery date August 31)

Interested in helping or learning more?  Click on respond and we will be in touch with you.