Maria & Mauricio

In our community, lives unfold and stories intertwine every day, creating a diverse tapestry of experiences. Today, we share the inspiring journey of one family who found safety, support, and educational opportunities in our community. 

Meet Maria—"I am from Venezuela, and I lived in Mexico for 16 years. My children were born there - three beautiful souls ages 12, 11, and 6.” Faced with the dangers prevalent in Mexico, she sought a safer haven for her family and found it in the welcoming embrace of Bozeman.


"I did not feel safe with them alone. Since I divorced their dad, we have been very happy here, and we have received a lot of support in this city. Thank you for everything.” - Maria

Amid Maria and her family’s journey, we were lucky enough to have met Mauricio, Maria's 6-year-old bundle of joy. Mauricio found happiness in GGUW’s kidsLINK Afterschool program, and we're thrilled to share the positive impact it has had on his life. The program has become more than just a safe space for him; it's a place where friendships blossom, shared experiences create lasting memories, and the English language is mastered with enthusiasm.

Mauricio's journey is a testament to the transformative power of after-school programs. Beyond providing a secure environment, these programs become a gateway for children like Mauricio to integrate into their new community seamlessly. It's not just about learning a language; it's about building connections, fostering friendships, and creating a sense of belonging.

Countless families, like Maria and Mauricio's, are relying on our community to unite and create opportunities for them to flourish. Working families seeking accessible, affordable childcare, early literacy programs, and a safety net to propel them from mere survival to thriving.

Greater Gallatin United Way has set an ambitious goal to raise $100,000 by year-end to ensure that stories like Maria and Mauricio's continue to unfold. Your support will directly impact working families that make our community so special. Every dollar contributes to creating a haven for children like Mauricio, where they can thrive, learn, and embrace the opportunities that come their way.

How You Can Help


    Donate Today: Visit our DONATION PAGE and be a part of this incredible journey.
    Share Our Story: Spread the word! Share this story with your friends, family, and social networks to amplify the impact.
    Follow Our Progress: Stay connected with us on social media as we share updates on the lives we touch together.

We believe in the power of collective action. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of working families and a chance for a brighter future. You have the power to change the trajectory for families like Maria's and children like Mauricio.


Thank you for being a crucial part of our community and for helping us reach our $100,000 goal.

Warm regards,

Kimberly Hall, Greater Gallatin United Way CEO