Building Community Connections in Butte, Montana

In the shadow of the Continental Divide, nestled among the mountains of southwestern Montana, the city of Butte has long been defined by its resilience. Once known as "the richest hill on earth" for its abundant copper mines, this historic mining town has weathered economic booms and busts while maintaining its strong sense of community. At the heart of this community spirit stands AWARE, Inc., a non-profit organization that has become an integral thread in Butte's social fabric. 

What began as a small organization focused on helping individuals with developmental disabilities live independent lives, AWARE has grown into a comprehensive human services agency providing essential support across Montana. 

The relationship between AWARE and Butte is synergistic; the organization provides vital services while drawing strength from the community's supportive nature. 

AWARE offers an impressive range of programs designed to meet diverse needs. Their services include residential support for adults with developmental disabilities, mental health services for families and adults, and early childhood programs. Each service is delivered with a person-centered approach that emphasizes dignity and self-determination. 

For Butte’s Early Head Start Nutrition Coordinator, Kacey Knight, AWARE has been deeply rewarding.  "I genuinely feel like I have been waiting all of my life for a job like the one that I have now. It feels amazing and like I am making a huge difference in these kids' lives by cooking and feeding them week after week. It is so incredibly rewarding when the kids cheer for me when I drop off a snack, or chanting 'lunch' down the hallway when they hear me coming, or when a picky child eats something new that I made for them. It means so much to me to be able to do what I love and make a difference doing it." 

AWARE’s impact is felt across the board by families and its’ workers in ways that you don’t always see. Christina Bugni, our Curriculum & Professional Development Coordinator, champions AWARE’s wrap around approach. “I love watching the connections made here and seeing not just the children, but their families and parents grow. I remember when I used to be a Site Supervisor at EHS, I had this single mom who had three daughters in our program. Because she was able to use our services and have quality childcare and nutrition, this mother was able to go to school. She went on to become a nurse and her daughters went on to do amazing in their own schooling. But it all really came back full circle, when this mother was able to help one of our teachers here deliver her baby. That never would've happened if we hadn't been there to support her and encourage her to grow. It was incredibly touching to see.” 

Beyond its social mission, AWARE serves as a significant economic driver in Butte, with over 90 employees in the area. These jobs range from direct support professionals to clinical specialists, creating career pathways in human services. 

The organization's commitment to professional development also strengthens Butte's workforce, providing ongoing training that enhances skills applicable across healthcare and social service sectors. 

In a city defined by perseverance and community spirit, AWARE, Inc. stands as both a reflection of these values and a catalyst for their continued expression. Through services that empower individuals, partnerships that strengthen systems, and an unwavering commitment to helping people live independent lives, AWARE helps ensure that Butte's rich community traditions encompass all who call this Montana city home.