- 5th Annual Big Bear Stampede Trail Race/Run/Walk and famous Kids Race. More than 100 participants and 50 volunteers attended this exhilarating event September 9. Nikki Kimball, renown ultra-marathoner and area resident presented a compelling message of outreach to all attendees. The 2018 Big Bear Stampede will occur September 8.
- Gardiner Counseling Services: A professional counselor is available every Friday at the Gardiner Baptist Church. Big Bear helps support adjusted fee payments for low-income individuals.
- The Help Center: Your sponsorship allows us to contribute to this 24 hour crisis counseling and suicide intervention hot line and center in Bozeman which serves the southwest Montana area. (406-586-3333)
- PAX Training for Teachers. Gardiner School teachers were taught techniques for helping students develop self-regulation.
- Assistance to Aspen for the Youth TREE Program. This program helps youth develop awareness and techniques to prevent bullying and promote healthy peer relationships in Meagher, Park and Sweet Grass counties.
- Community Health Partners. Provided support to low-income Park County patients for depression medications.
- Integrated Running Camp. Big Bear provided support to this initial Nikki Kimball program near Gardiner which helps individuals focus on integrating running with improved mental health.
- Youth Awareness of Mental Health (YAM): This world-wide program, proven to decrease suicidal thoughts and actions, was presented to Gardiner School students in three grades this fall as a pilot program in Montana.
Big Bear endorses these activities organized by Juanita Bueter:
- ASSIST Training: Teaches suicide intervention skills. Many interested Gardiner community members have been trained (approximately 100).
- Mental Health First Aid: Many locals have participated in this 8 hour course for teachers, health care workers, Park Service employees.