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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
32nd Annual Climb Big Mountain 2024 Event Returns to the Flathead Valley on June 22, 2024
Kalispell, Montana – March 25, 2024 – The excitement is building as the 32nd annual Climb event gears up to take place on June 22nd, 2024. Organized by Flathead Industries, this year’s Climb Big Mountain promises to be an exhilarating adventure for participants of all ages.
The event will kick off at 8 a.m. on the renowned Danny-On trail, spanning 3.8 miles to the breathtaking Summit House. As climbers ascend the mountain, they’ll engage in interactive trivia, adding an extra layer of fun and challenge to the journey. We are offering gift cards in your swag bag this year, with two lucky winners getting $50!
“We’re thrilled to bring back the Climb for its 32nd edition,” said Patrick Maddison, CEO of Flathead Industries. “It’s not just about reaching the summit; it’s about enjoying the experience every step of the way. With great food, music, prizes, and entertainment along the trail, participants are in for an unforgettable day.”
The festivities don’t end at the summit. Upon reaching the Summit House, climbers will be treated to a range of activities including live music, face painting, and delicious food and drinks, creating a vibrant atmosphere for celebration and camaraderie.
In addition to providing a memorable experience for attendees, the Climb event offers unique sponsorship opportunities for businesses looking to engage with the local community. Sponsorship packages are still available and can be tailored to support both the CBM event in June and Flathead Industries’ upcoming Murder Mystery Gala scheduled for March 2025.
“We invite local businesses to join us as sponsors for the Climb event and beyond,” added Patrick. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase your brand while supporting two iconic community events.”
The organizers are eager to see strong participation from both locals and businesses across the Flathead Valley, emphasizing the event’s role in bringing the community together for a day of outdoor adventure and entertainment.
For more information contact marketing@flatheadindustries.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Flathead Industries Launches Fundraising Campaign to Purchase Full Accessibility Van
Flathead Valley, MT – 7/29/2024– Flathead Industries is excited to announce a new fundraising campaign aimed at purchasing a fully accessible van to enhance transportation services for individuals with disabilities in the Flathead Valley. The campaign will run from August 8 to September 13, 2024, with a goal to raise funds for the acquisition of a 2024 Full Accessibility Wheelchair Van.
For 50 years, Flathead Industries has been a pillar of support for over 240 individuals with disabilities, providing essential services, housing, transportation, employment, and programs. However, our current fleet of vehicles lacks full accessibility, creating significant challenges in ensuring all consumers have equitable access to transportation.
“The acquisition of a fully accessible van is crucial for our mission,” said Patrick Maddison, CEO of Flathead Industries. “This vehicle will allow us to provide safe, comfortable, and dignified transportation for all our consumers, ensuring they can attend medical appointments, community events, and vocational opportunities without any barriers.”
The fundraising campaign invites community members, local businesses, and supporters from all walks of life to contribute to this vital cause. Donations will directly impact the lives of individuals with disabilities, fostering independence and inclusivity within our community.
To kick off the campaign, Flathead Industries will host a series of events and activities designed to raise awareness and encourage donations. Supporters can contribute through our website, attend our fundraising events, or participate in community activities organized throughout the campaign period.
Event Details:
- Campaign Launch: August 8, 2024
- Campaign End: September 13, 2024
- Goal: Raise funds for a Fully Accessible Wheelchair Van
- How to Donate: Visit the Whitefish Community Foundation page.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a significant difference,” added Patrick. “Together, we can make Flathead Valley a more inclusive and supportive place for everyone.”
For more information about the fundraising campaign and upcoming events, please contact marketing@flatheadindustries.org.
About Flathead Industries: Flathead Industries is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for people with disabilities. Since 1973, we have been providing services, housing, care, transportation, employment, and programs to over 240 individuals across the Flathead Valley. Our mission is to promote inclusivity, independence, and improved quality of life for all members of our community.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Flathead Industries Announces Murder Mystery Gala to Support Individuals with Developmental Disabilities
Kalispell, MT – May 29, 2024 – Flathead Industries is thrilled to announce its upcoming Murder Mystery Gala, set to take place on March 13, 2025, at the picturesque Snowline Acres. This enchanting evening of suspense, entertainment, and philanthropy aims to raise vital funds to support individuals with developmental disabilities.
The Murder Mystery Gala promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring a captivating murder mystery performance where guests will have the chance to play detective, solving clues and unraveling the mystery. The event will also include a gourmet dinner, live music, and a silent auction with exciting prizes.
Event Details:
- Date: March 13, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Location: Snowline Acres, Kalispell, MT
“We are excited to bring the community together for an evening of fun and purpose,” said Patrick Maddison, CEO of Flathead Industries. “The funds raised from this event will directly benefit our programs and services, helping us provide essential support and opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities in our community.”
Guests are encouraged to dress in their finest attire and prepare for a night of elegant entertainment and mystery. Tickets are will be available for purchase August 15, with various sponsorship opportunities also open for local businesses and individuals wishing to make a significant impact.
Highlights of the Gala:
- Interactive murder mystery experience
- Gourmet dining and fine beverages
- Live music and entertainment
- Silent auction and raffle prizes
Flathead Industries has been a cornerstone in the community, dedicated to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities through a range of services, including vocational training, residential support, and community integration programs.
Tickets and Sponsorship: Tickets for the Murder Mystery Gala will be available on the Flathead Industries website. Sponsorship packages offer unique opportunities for businesses to support the cause while gaining special recognition during the event.
For more information, to purchase tickets, or to explore sponsorship options, please contact marketing@flatheadindustries.org
About Flathead Industries: Flathead Industries is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Through comprehensive services and programs, Flathead Industries strives to enhance the quality of life and promote greater independence for the people we serve.
Join us at Snowline Acres for a night of mystery, elegance, and philanthropy, and help make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Flathead Industries to Open New Clearance Store in Kalispell
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Scheduled for December 13 at 2:15 PM
Kalispell, MT – December 9, 2024 – Flathead Industries is excited to announce the grand opening of its new clearance store at 91 5th Ave WN in Kalispell, Montana. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on December 13 at 2:15 PM, marking a significant milestone in our mission to create opportunities for people with disabilities across the Flathead Valley.
Flathead Industries serves over 240 individuals with disabilities, and the new store represents a unique opportunity for the community to discover hidden treasures at unbeatable prices. The store will operate with an innovative pay-by-the-pound system, allowing customers to purchase items based on weight, making it easier and more affordable to repurpose and upcycle materials.
This new facility not only provides great deals for shoppers but also supports our commitment to environmental sustainability by helping to divert more items from landfills. By encouraging repurposing and upcycling, we are fostering a culture of creativity and sustainability within our community.
“We are thrilled to expand our presence in Kalispell with this new location,” said [Name, Title of a Key Person in the Organization]. “This store is a testament to our ongoing dedication to serving the people of the Flathead Valley and our commitment to environmental responsibility.”
Flathead Industries invites the entire community to join us for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and explore all that the new store has to offer. Come find your next treasure and support a great cause!
Event Details:
- Date: December 13, 2024
- Time: 2:15 PM
- Location: 91 5th Ave WN, Kalispell, MT
For more information about the event or Flathead Industries, please contact Alexandra Sheneman, Marketing Manager (Marketing@FlatheadIndustries.org)
About Flathead Industries:
Flathead Industries is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for people with disabilities. Serving over 240 individuals across the Flathead Valley, we strive to empower and enrich the lives of those we serve through various programs, services, and community partnerships.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Flathead Industries Announces Expansion to Missoula
New Thrift Store and Disability Services Hub Set to Open Summer 2025
Kalispell, MT — [March 15, 2025] — Flathead Industries, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities, is proud to announce its expansion into Missoula, Montana. The organization will open a new thrift store and service hub this summer, marking a major step forward in its mission to provide inclusive services across the state.
Donation drop-offs for the new location will begin in June, with the grand opening of the store to follow shortly thereafter.
“Expanding to Missoula allows us to provide critical services to a growing population while creating more inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities,” said Mitch McKinley, VP of Operations at Flathead Industries. “This move is a direct response to both the increasing need for support services and the capacity challenges we face in Kalispell.”
The Missoula location will serve as a foundation for establishing supported living, day services, and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the area—many of whom currently face limited access to these essential services.
“This expansion is not just about opening a new store—it’s about planting roots in a new community so we can begin offering meaningful services that help people live independently and with purpose,” said Patrick Maddison, CEO of Flathead Industries. “Missoula has long been on our radar, and we’re excited to finally bring our person-centered approach to this vibrant and growing region.”
With Kalispell’s labor market fully tapped and an ever-growing waitlist for services, the Missoula facility will help Flathead Industries meet demand while creating jobs for local residents and engaging new partners in community development.
Flathead Industries has been serving Montana since [Founding Year], providing innovative and compassionate support to individuals with disabilities. The upcoming Missoula location continues that legacy of empowerment and inclusion.
More information, including donation drop-off locations and grand opening event details, will be released in the coming weeks.
For more information about the event or Flathead Industries, please contact Alexandra Sheneman, Associate Director of Marketing (Marketing@FlatheadIndustries.org)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
33rd Annual Climb Big Mountain Fundraiser to Support Individuals with Disabilities
Whitefish, MT — Flathead Industries is proud to announce the 33rd Annual Climb Big Mountain event, taking place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Whitefish Mountain Resort. This cherished community tradition invites individuals and families of all ages and abilities to hike the scenic Danny On Trail in support of services for people with disabilities throughout the Flathead Valley.
This year’s event promises an uplifting day of purpose, community, and celebration in the beautiful setting of the Flathead National Forest. Participants will enjoy a scenic 3.8-mile climb to the Summit House followed by a lively mountain-top celebration including a BBQ lunch, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Event Schedule
Location: Danny On Trailhead, Whitefish Mountain Resort
Time: 6:45 AM – 1:30 PM
6:45 AM: Registration Opens
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM: BBQ Lunch, Live Music, and Activities at the Summit House
Registration Details
Individuals: $25
Teams of 10 or more: $20 per participant
Children under 12: Free
Registration Includes:
Official Event T-Shirt
Swag Bag
Entry into a drawing for (4) $25 Gift Cards
Complimentary Photos
BBQ Lunch
Live Entertainment
Face Painting and Kids’ Activities
Downhill Lift Ticket for Descent
All ages and fitness levels are welcome. Please note that while dogs are welcome at the event, they are not permitted on the lift.
Climb Big Mountain is more than a hike—it’s an opportunity to come together in support of inclusion, empowerment, and independence for people with disabilities in our community. Your participation helps fund essential programs and services that change lives.
For more information or to register, contact marketing@flatheadindustries.org.
About Flathead Industries:
Flathead Industries is a nonprofit organization that provides individualized support and employment opportunities for people with disabilities throughout northwest Montana. With a focus on empowerment and community integration, Flathead Industries is committed to creating a more inclusive and accessible world for everyone.
For more information about the event or Flathead Industries, please contact Alexandra Sheneman, Associate Director of Marketing (Marketing@FlatheadIndustries.org)
- Offering essential items at affordable rates
- Supporting jobs for individuals with disabilities
- Keeping thousands of pounds of usable goods out of the waste stream
- Furniture for just $0.50 per piece
- Everything else at $0.50 per pound
Alexandra Sheneman
Flathead Industries
asheneman@flatheadindustries.org
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