Our Legacy

Past to Present

Benefis Healthcare Foundation was created in 1998 upon the merger of the Montana Gift of Life Foundation and Montana Deaconess Foundation. Benefis Healthcare Foundation now operates many of the programs and services established by these foundations.

Montana Deaconess Foundation’s major assets consisted of Charitable Remainder Trusts for the Emergency Room, by  Carter & Judy Williams and Keith & Olive Ario, and Alzheimer’s Care, also by the Ario family, as well as a gift from the late William (Barber) and Gaee Ellis of ranch property to benefit children’s healthcare. The Gift of Life Foundation raised funds to build and maintain the Gift of Life Family Housing Center for patients living outside Great Falls who needed treatment, primarily for cancer.

Combining two organizations whose individual purposes were so similar has progressed beyond initial expectations.
 
"Benefis Healthcare Foundation has been able to accomplish many wonderful things in its brief existence thanks to many generous donors and passionate volunteers," said Tim Culliton, former chair of the Benefis Healthcare Foundation Board of Directors. "I am very proud to be a part of an organization whose mission of improving and enhancing healthcare impacts the lives of so many people in the community and region.”
 
The Foundation’s mission is “improving and enhancing healthcare services for people throughout northcentral Montana.” Through continuing support of services offered by its predecessors and creating and expanding other areas of support, the Foundation has been involved in an impressive list of accomplishments. Although our history may be short in years, we are proud to have touched so many lives. Your support will enable us to touch many more.

Click here to learn more about our Above and Beyond Gifts