Legacy

Without the support of our friends and community members, we would not be able to provide each child with the opportunity for change and hope. Youth Homes has a tradition of naming our group homes or other programs after individuals with a deep and lasting commitment to our organization and the youth we serve. We are honored to continue their legacy by providing a safe haven for youth in Western Montana as they learn to trust, build confidence, and develop healthy relationships.

Geoff Birnbaum

Geoff lived a life filled with tremendous passion and dedication to others. He spent 42 years as our executive director. After his retirement, he remained deeply involved with Youth Homes. Geoff was enthusiastic about building a new therapeutic shelter and served on the capital campaign committee. Unfortunately, Geoff died suddenly in 2025, and we couldn’t think of a better way to honor him than to dedicate the Birnbaum Youth Home in his memory.

Birnbaum Youth Home

Missoula, MT

This therapeutic shelter is set to open in September 2026 and will support youth in crisis, providing safety, stability, and healing for youth aged 12 to 17.

Dan Fox

Dan Fox was a lifelong advocate for children. Dan worked for over 20 years in Montana’s State Child Protective Services Program and was a believer in mediation and conflict resolution for families in crisis. Dan first worked with our kids as a social worker, and later, at the end of his life, he addressed high-needs children in the state’s custody. Dan left us too soon at 47, but his commitment to and concern for these children live on through our work. To honor his legacy, our Family Care Program is named after him.

Dan Fox Family Care Program

Missoula, Kalispell, Helena, Polson, MT

Supports biological, kinship, and foster children and families towards stability and permanency through a variety of program services.

Dennis Radtke

Dennis worked as a guidance counselor at Hellgate High School for more than 30 years. His willingness to work directly with teens throughout his entire time at Hellgate honors the work of our therapeutic youth care workers and their critical relationships with the children we serve. Dennis served on the Youth Homes board and worked as a clinical supervisor in our foster care program, then for CASA of Missoula, before retiring. The founding of a treatment home that specialized in the emotional issues of teenage boys provided an ideal opportunity to honor Dennis Radtke.

Dennis Radtke Home for Boys

Missoula, MT

A six-bed therapeutic group home serving boys ages 12–17 with serious emotional and conduct issues.

Susan Talbot

Susan came to Youth Homes in 1976 and served on our board for eight years, two of which as president. While she is an extremely generous donor, it is Susan’s willingness to roll up her sleeves and get things done that truly defines her spirit and engagement style. From hosting kids at her summer cabin to roasting a pig at fundraising parties, she helped shape a generation of philanthropists. When we were developing our two treatment homes, it seemed fitting to name both homes after Susan to honor her quiet and strong voice on behalf of children.

Susan Talbot Boys Home

Missoula, MT

A six-bed therapeutic group home that serves boys aged 12–17 with serious emotional disturbances and family issues.

Susan Talbot Home for Girls

Missoula, MT

A six-bed, intensive-level therapeutic group home that serves girls aged 12 to 17 with serious emotional disturbances resulting from trauma.

Tom Roy

Tom joined the Youth Homes board when he moved to Missoula in 1974. He quickly became an integral part of our first home, serving as the chair of the administrative committee and later as board president. In 1979, we named our home on Central Avenue after Tom to honor his dedication and tireless work on behalf of children. His statement best demonstrates his commitment that what is most important to him in life is “that my sons would look back and say I had been a good father.”

Tom Roy Youth Guidance Home

Missoula, MT

A long-term, therapeutic group home for older teens offering support and training to help them successfully transition into adulthood.