Roots Family Collaborative: Nurturing Stronger Communities with One Valley Community Foundation
In the vast landscapes of Montana, where community support for families can be as elusive as a mirage, Roots Family Collaborative found its purpose. Founded in January 2017, this nonprofit organization is a vital connection point for new and growing families in Gallatin County. Their mission is simple yet profound: to create a network of support groups, host special events, provide valuable resources, and nurture the well-being of parents—those cornerstones of a healthy community.
Suzanne Bendick, the driving force and Executive Director of Roots, wasn't just inspired by this mission; she lived it herself. After becoming a mother 13 years ago, she discovered the challenges of raising a family far from her support system. She realized the importance of the nurturing aspect of parenting. Driven by this realization, Suzanne underwent extensive training to become a postpartum doula and a lactation counselor. Her dedication to helping other parents find their way through the challenging early stages of parenthood became the cornerstone of Roots Family Collaborative.
Suzanne's vision for Roots includes a Montana where every family feels supported and has access to the care they need in the near and distant future. The ultimate dream is for Roots not to exist because, in this utopian world, every family would naturally have access to support without stigma or barriers.
But Roots faces uphill battles and societal pressures. Mothers, burdened with productivity expectations and mental health struggles, often feel invisible after childbirth. Roots seeks to change this narrative and provide a safe haven of support and understanding.
Enter One Valley Community Foundation. “One Valley’s support has been a lifeline for Roots Family Collaborative. The journey began when we connected with Bridget Wilkinson, One Valley’s President and CEO, through a board member's recommendation. One Valley's assistance was not limited to financial support; it extended to invaluable personal relationships, programming, and professional development. Roots Family Collaborative isn't just another grant recipient; we are real people with real passions, and One Valley recognized and championed our cause,” said Suzanne.
Suzanne reflects on the importance of One Valley's work, especially its role in connecting community leaders. For her, it's about building networks within the sector and fostering a sense of unity among organizations working toward a common goal: stronger, healthier communities.
One Valley's support has been indispensable for Roots, and Suzanne is grateful for the donors and supporters who make One Valley's work possible. “It’s the ripple effect you all create—a healthier community. When donors give to One Valley, they aren't just supporting one organization; they are nurturing an entire community”.
As we approach year-end, Roots Family Collaborative, and One Valley Community Foundation invite you to be a part of their story. Your donation to One Valley will support organizations like Roots and causes throughout Gallatin County. Through the end of the year, all donations will be matched dollar for dollar up to $55,000 by our generous donors, Andrea and Mike Manship. Your contribution creates ripples of positive change, helping families and building stronger communities.