We Are So Happy To Have You Join, Chris
February 23, 2021
Chris Manos’ next “season of service” is as Rural Dynamics AmeriCorps VISTA in Helena, MT. He has been fortunate to live in Montana for many years and in the Helena community for the last 19 years. Public service and giving back has always been a primary focus, throughout his various jobs and in all the great communities he has lived.
With a Bachelor of Science, US Military Academy, West Point, NY, a law degree, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND and a Masters in Strategic Studies, Army War College, Carlisle, PA, his interests, careers and service have been varied. A veteran of 30 years with active and reserve duty, he has seen assignments and deployments in Europe, Asia and Southwest Asia. His community and professional involvement in a variety of non-profits and service organizations as a board member or in leadership positions have contributed to his knowledge and experience, underscoring his teamwork and collaborative approach to every task.
Completing a first year of service as an Economic Development Administration (EDA) AmeriCorps VISTA, I am excited to start a second year as a Rural Dynamics AmeriCorps VISTA continuing community economic success and a Volunteer Assignment Description (VAD) focusing on workforce development initiatives with Montana Business Assistance Connection (MBAC) and Gateway Economic Development District (GEDD), for the three-county region of Broadwater, Lewis & Clark and Meagher, Montana.
2025 Impact Report In 2025, RDI Financial Wellness continued to walk alongside individuals and families across Montana as they worked toward greater financial stability, opportunity, and peace of mind. Thanks to the support of 65 dedicated volunteers, we served 3,321 people statewide, with 93% identifying as low to moderate income. Our focus remains clear, ensuring our services reach those who need them most and create meaningful, lasting impact. This year, we provided 263 financial and housing counseling sessions, helping individuals and families navigate challenges, build confidence, and make informed financial decisions. Through housing counseling and education, we worked to prevent foreclosure, support renters, and guide future homeowners on their path forward. Our Montana Families Trust continued to provide long term security for individuals living with disabilities, managing 91 active trusts and approximately $4 million in pooled assets. At the same time, our Assistive Technology Loan program expanded access to essential tools and equipment that improve independence and quality of life. One of the most visible impacts of our work continues through our Tax Help program. In 2025, we helped 2,765 taxpayers file their returns for free, returning $2.64 million to Montanans and saving them $801,850 in preparation fees. These are dollars that stay in our communities, supporting families, local businesses, and economic stability. Beyond the numbers, this work is about people. It is about a parent gaining confidence in their finances, a senior staying in their home, or a family accessing resources that create new opportunities. We are deeply grateful to our volunteers, partners, and community members who make this work possible. Together, we are building stronger financial futures across Montana. Read the full report here: 2025 Impact Report
Register for a homebuyer Class
File your taxes for free with RDI
RDI is Hiring A Tax Help Program Manager
A Year of Impact at RDI Financial Wellness
RDI Tax Help is available until April 15
Free Personalized Financial Counseling
Women Leading the Way through Financial Literacy
We are pleased to announce that effective April 1, 2023, Jordyn Rogers, the Deputy Director of Rural Dynamics Inc. (RDI), has assumed the position of Executive Director.
