About Us

Working side-by-side with Western Montanans to improve the health of our communities.

Flowers growing on hillside overlooking town

At Headwaters Foundation, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.

We partner with organizations that work to reduce barriers to health alongside those who face them most. Because when Montana’s children, families and Native American communities are strong and their voices are heard, we can create a Western Montana where all are healthy and thriving.

Our History

Headwaters Foundation funds community-led solutions and goes beyond grantmaking by building trusting relationships with grantee partners, convening and amplifying conversations about health in our state, and providing tailored support to strengthen nonprofits in our region.

Our Approach

We believe in and are guided by these values:

Trust and Invest in Community

We trust that our communities have the answers, so we start by listening and building relationships. We work to reshape the traditional dynamic in philanthropy and strive to put power back into the hands of those who know our communities best.

Be Brave, Do Things Differently, Keep Learning

We believe that to solve some of our toughest problems, we must work together, be brave, and try new things. We are committed to supporting our partners as they take risks and dare to do things differently.

A Healthy Montana for All Montanans

Everyone has a right to health and wellbeing, but inequity exists in access to the resources needed to live our healthiest lives. We are committed to working toward a Montana where everyone has what they need to thrive and where there are fewer barriers to being healthy.

Together We Thrive

Every Montanan has a unique story. Headwaters Foundation values every voice and strives to make room at the table for everyone, especially those who are too often left out of the decision-making process but whose voices are essential for achieving better health outcomes for all.