Welcome To National Service In MT, Katy!
September 8, 2020
I am Kathryn Rasmussen, relocating to Helena, MT from Tacoma, WA to work as the Social and Racial Justice Program Assistant at the YWCA Helena. I come from a land of natural beauty and opportunities which is why Helena is such a refreshing change in a new outdoor-accessible environment.
The YWCA Helena has been under lots of construction and new leadership changes. Many new employees have been hired along with several AmeriCorps members under a new grant. The YWCA houses women transitioning out of the criminal justice system as well as supports many in maintaining sobriety and regaining custody of their children. I am going to be working closely with our social and racial justice team working to eliminate injustices towards women and POC in Helena.

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









