The Montana Highway Patrol started the Montana Hope Project in 1984 as a way to give back to the communities they serve in a special and unique way.
The Montana Hope Project
was born.
Today, the Montana Hope Project is a separate non-profit organization funded by tax-deductible charitable contributions. The Hope Project does not receive tax support and is not associated with any national wish-granting organization. Sponsored by the Association of Montana Troopers, the Montana Hope Project originated from the strong desire of Troopers to offer a special and unique service to the communities they served.
Granting wishes to Montana children has proven to be a rewarding endeavor and has had a positive impact on those involved with the Hope Project. Granting wishes, hosting reunions and our fund-raising events offer comfort and encouragement to families facing difficult circumstances and bring communities together in support of their neighbors. Those involved know first-hand the special meaning of the smile on a child’s face when they receive their wish.
The mission of the Montana Hope Project is to fulfill the dreams and wishes of the children of Montana who suffer from a terminal, critical, or chronic illness that are between the ages of 2 and 18 years. The conditions the children face typically require medical intervention and physically, emotionally, and financially drain the children and their families. Eighty-eight percent of all proceeds from funds raised, corporate and private donations, and memorials go directly to wishes for Montana children. The average wish granted costs approximately $12,000, and the most requested wish is a trip to Walt Disney World.
Wishes over the years have included trips to Hawaii, professional sports events, computers, shopping sprees, camping trips, hot tubs, vehicle restorations, Caribbean cruises, a horse buggy, adaptive equipment, entertainment centers, video games, and dream bedrooms. Whenever possible, the entire family is involved in the wish. As a way to further encourage families, the Hope Project also invites each wish recipient and their family to two reunions each year. Our summer and winter reunions are held at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, typically the first weekend in June and the first weekend in December.
The Montana Hope Project is a success due to the combined efforts of many. Our volunteer staff is comprised of active and retired highway patrol troopers and their spouses, along with other dedicated individuals. We also enjoy the support of various organizations from across the state of Montana that give generously of their money, time, and talents.
We are sincere in our belief that the lives of children are precious and should never be cut short without their wishes coming true. We welcome you to join us in this endeavor.
Testimonials
Dear Montana Hope Project,
Many, many thanks to all of you. Wow, our first trip as a family. No doctors, hospitals, or work. The only time our cell phones range was when we were trying to find each other. I didn't have to worry about how to have some of her equipment there because you were able to have it there for me. We have never been able to have a family trip, and you made our first one so awesome that we are all still talking about it. Watching Signe interact with Hope still brings tears to my eyes. There was such a feeling of peace. Being able to watch my husband act like a child every day with our child was great. No work, school, appointments, worries for a week was priceless. I want to thank you again for helping us have great memories.
Sincerely your friend,
Tina Welter, Signe's Mom
