Citizen support organizations, or “friends” groups, are a valuable source of volunteers and financial assistance for programs and physical needs which go beyond the state’s ability to provide funding. Members of these nonprofit organizations work on special projects, develop and promote special events, and serve as visitor center attendants, volunteer naturalists, photographers, and Web site developers, among other things. Your contribution of time and money to these nonprofit organizations will help:
- preserve, restore, and enhance natural and cultural resources;
- provide improved services and facilities for visitors;
- increase public awareness and support of the park; and
- enhance educational and interpretive activities.
The All Nations Pishkun Association (ANPA), a support group for First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park, was founded in 2000. ANPA is dedicated to improving and expanding the park, increasing visitation, developing the volunteer program, and providing more educational opportunities at the park and in local schools. For more information, contact Richard Hopkins at (406) 866-2219.
The Bannack Association is a grass-roots organization that works hand-in-hand with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to promote and preserve this National Historic Landmark. Through fund-raising, promotional efforts, and individual participation, association members are making a real difference in the future of Bannack. In addition, the association works to develop and preserve historical artifacts and records from Bannack and prepares and regularly distributes an informative, historical newsletter.
Bannack Association Web site
The Friends of Chief Plenty Coups Association is committed to helping fulfill the vision of Chief Plenty Coups—that of using the land he donated for promoting peace, harmony, and cultural understanding among all races. Association members work to build bridges between cultures, improve facilities, and provide public education. They also help organize the annual Chief Plenty Coups Day of Honor, a day of cultural sharing with speakers, drummers, dancers, tours, and a buffalo feast.
Friends of Chief Plenty Coups Web site
Friends of Makoshika is a very active citizen support group established in 1992. Its purpose is to promote Makoshika State Park and support park activities. The group organizes fund-raising activities, annual park events, and community activities. For more information, contact the park at (406) 377-6256 or e-mail fom@midrivers.com.
Friends of Makoshika Web site
The Travelers' Rest Preservation and Heritage Association (TRPHA) is dedicated to preserving the rich cultural and natural resources of the Travelers' Rest site; to inspiring stewardship of our collective heritage; and to providing an educational and aesthetic benefit to the community. Volunteer your time and talents, make a donation, and read the association's newsletter at:
Travelers' Rest Web site
The mission of the Pictograph Cave Advisory Council is to enhance and perpetuate Pictograph Cave State Park for the people of Montana and its visitors by promoting the understanding, sustainable use, resource protection, and preservation and development of the park. With a new visitor center planned for 2008, more volunteers will be needed at this park. For more information, contact the park manager (406) 247-2955.
The purpose of the Fish, Wildlife & Parks Foundation is to provide private support for efforts of the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Department and to take a leading role in ensuring the protection of Montana’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources for future generations. The foundation provides funds where need is greatest and where private support will make the critical difference in the success of protecting Montana’s resources. Contributions to the foundation are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. For more information, contact shegstad@mt.gov.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Foundation Web site
