For nearly 20 years, Youth Homes has partnered with the Missoula Marathon to help kids facing abuse, neglect, emotional trauma, and substance use issues. This year, Youth Homes raised over $100,000, the highest in the history of the partnership.
“We are so grateful for this long-standing partnership with Run Wild Missoula and the Missoula Marathon,” said Amy Schaer, Chief Executive Officer of Youth Homes. “We want to thank everyone who helped raise $100,000 for the kids we serve.”
Each Run4Kids team member helps raise at least $500, but many raise much more. Run4Kids team members get access to VIP port-a-potties at the race start, VIP transportation, exclusive Run 4 Kids race-day gear, prizes, and ongoing support from our team. This year, 64 team members exceeded their individual fundraising goal of $500, and 22 raised more than $1,000.
“This year is extra special because every dollar goes directly to the Birnbaum Youth Home, a new therapeutic shelter that gives youth in crisis somewhere safe to go instead of CPS offices, emergency rooms, unsafe homes, or the streets,” said Schaer.
The Birnbaum Youth Home will provide a safe and supportive environment for youth aged 10 to 17. It is named after Geoff Birnbaum, a beloved community member who spent 42 years as the Youth Home’s executive director. After retiring, he remained deeply involved with the organization. Sadly, Geoff died suddenly in 2025. Over the past year, Youth Homes has been fundraising to create a new kind of therapeutic shelter. They hope to raise the final $452,000 to open the facility this fall.
###
Youth Homes is a nonprofit organization caring for children who are facing abuse, neglect, emotional trauma, and substance use problems. Through emergency shelters, therapeutic group homes, and counseling services, they provide a safe refuge for kids while they begin the difficult healing process. Since 1971, they have cared for more than 20,000 children and their families in Western Montana. To learn more, visit youthhomesmt.org.
