Rural Community Grant Press Release

Big Timber, MT, August 8, 2025

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Mike Peterson, CHW/Wheatland County; Theresa Abegglen, Insurance Agent III AgWest Farm Credit; Briana Dolbear, CHW Supervisor/Wheatland County

Catalyst for Change is pleased to announce it has been awarded $5,000 through AgWest Farm Credit’s Rural Community Grant program to be used towards the purchase of essential technology to expand and enhance mental health services for residents of Wheatland County.

At Catalyst for Change, we believe every Montanan deserves access to compassionate, effective mental healthcare, no matter where they live. As a community-driven organization, we are committed to tackling Montana’s urgent mental health crisis by meeting people where they are, building trust, and strengthening local systems of support.

Grant funds have been invested in laptops, Chromebooks, and printers to equip Community Health Workers (CHWs) with secure, HIPAA-compliant tools for delivering telehealth services. These resources also help clients access vital programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, VA benefits, and employment opportunities. CHWs are now able to help clients build résumés, apply for jobs, and overcome cycles of financial instability often linked to mental health challenges. Printers provide immediate access to schedules, housing forms, and other critical documents—removing delays in care and support. From isolated seniors to families in crisis, this investment ensures that Wheatland County residents can connect to the resources and support they need to thrive.

Briana Murion-Dolbear, CHW Supervisor, Wheatland County, said, "It is so encouraging to receive this grant from AgWest Farm Credit. It reminds us that we are not alone in addressing the barriers to mental healthcare in rural Montana. Their generosity is helping bridge the gap for Wheatland County residents, connecting our communities to the care they can now access through telehealth."

AgWest’s Rural Community Grants provide funds to non-profit organizations for projects that improve rural communities within Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. This includes efforts such as building or improving facilities; purchasing necessary equipment to facilitate a local program; and funding capital improvements that enhance a community’s infrastructure, viability, and prosperity.

For more information about the Rural Community Grant Program, please visit AgWest Rural Community Grants.

Founded in 2020, Catalyst for Change’s mission is to turn the tide on Montana’s mental health crisis through integrated, community-based care pathways with individuals at the center. We work directly with communities to ensure every Montanan—regardless of location—has access to compassionate, effective mental healthcare. By pairing trained Community Health Workers with secure telehealth technology and strong local partnerships, we connect people to the care, resources, and support they need to overcome challenges and build stronger, healthier futures.

Amber Martinsen

Founder & CEO

www.catalystforchange.org

406.325.7042