Local foundation outlines Libby-focused grant program, pledges $1 million annual budget through 2028

Tabitha Bergids of the Lord Foundation told the Libby City Council that the foundation operates a local, family-funded grant program in Libby focused on community-driven projects across health, housing, transportation, water, engagement, environment, economy and education.

Bergids said LOR has approved 307 projects totaling $2,464,858 since starting work in Montana, and that the foundation’s Libby program has a local grants budget of $1,000,000 for the current year. She described a model that emphasizes local origination of ideas, brief application timelines, and assistance in application writing and technical support. Bergids said LOR had provided 28 “assisted opportunities” that leveraged approximately $75,065,328 in additional funding for community projects.

The foundation’s grants range from small awards (reported as $50) up to $30,000, and Bergids said that most awards carry a one-year timeframe with a single final report and no continuing reporting requirements. She said LOR hires locally, prioritizes local procurement when reasonable, and works to fund sustainable projects that can continue after the foundation sunsets its presence.

Bergids said LOR intends to remain in Libby through June 2028, at which point the foundation plans to designate a new Montana community and end the Libby site. She invited council members and local champions to contact the foundation for assistance with applications and to discuss project priorities.

Councilors thanked Bergids for the presentation. No council action was required or taken on the item during the meeting.