10 Simple Ways to Make a Big Difference

August 2025

article by Jessica Renstrom

ONE | Volunteer with Habit for Humanity

Join their build crew at the Billings site on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays, no construction experience required! You can also help out at the ReStore (their nonprofit building materials shop) on Tuesday through Saturday to support their affordable housing projects.

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TWO | Donate to Tumbleweed's Food Pantry

Drop off non-perishable food items (canned goods, pasta, rice, cereal) at Tumbleweed’s pantry in downtown Billings. Consider organizing a food drive at your workplace or school to help provide for homeless youth in our community.

THREE | Beautify with Parks & Rec

The Billings Parks & Recreation Department welcomes volunteers for tree-planting, trail clean-ups, planting native flowers, and more. Visit their website or contact the Community Outreach and Engagement Coordinator to join as an individual or group.

FOUR | Support Montana Rescue Mission

From serving hot meals to organizing donation drives, there are many ways to help MRM. They’re always in need of toiletries (soap, toothpaste, shampoo, feminine products) and meal service volunteers. Check their website for shift sign-ups and donation details.

FIVE | Volunteer at the Billings Public Library

Help with shelving, literacy programs, children’s story hours, or community events. The library often needs help during afternoons and weekends. Fill out their volunteer form on the library’s website or stop by in person.

SIX | Support Love and SONshine Ministries

Help homeless young moms and their babies by donating diapers, wipes, and feminine hygiene products to Love & SONshine. These essentials are in constant demand and make a great gift for moms in need.

Photo by Kristina Paukshtite

SEVEN | Help Seniors Stay Connected

Volunteer with senior centers or assisted living homes to provide companionship, tech help, or activity support. Even an hour a week chatting or playing cards can brighten someone’s day and reduce isolation.

EIGHT | Tutor or Mentor Youth

Volunteer with nonprofits such as Boys & Girls Clubs, Big Brothers Big Sisters, or local after-school programs. Tutoring, mentoring, and serving as a trusted adult can make a significant difference in a child's life.

NINE | Clean Up Your Neighborhood

Organize or join a block cleanup. Provide gloves, trash bags, and recycling boxes for your neighbors. Pair with local businesses for pickup support or coordinate with the City of Billings’ Garbage Collection.

TEN | Help Senior Dogs at Poochz BnB

Support Poochz BnB, a sanctuary for senior dogs, by donating supplies like cleaning products, soft throws, chew toys, or pet-friendly food. Volunteers can assist with yard work, prepare meals for the pups, plan fundraisers, or spend time reading and playing with the dogs. Every act of kindness makes their golden years brighter.

Photo by Jean Alves

PUT KINDNESS INTO ACTION

Ready to roll up your sleeves and get involved? Whether you're lending a hand or simply showing up in support, these local events make it easy to connect with causes that matter, right here in our own backyard.

Family Fun Day Block Party

Saturday, September 20 | 11 AM – 2 PM

Ping Circle Subdivision, 1202 N Ping Cir

Join Habitat for Humanity for a free, fun-filled day with food, live music, games, a bounce house, and a chance to tour their current build site. Don’t miss your chance to win a playhouse raffle while supporting the mission to build affordable homes in our community.

Fitness Night for a Cause

Monday, August 5 | 5 PM – 8 PM

D1 Training, 1678 Shiloh Rd STE 3

Get moving for a mission! Join Coach Sydney for a workout benefitting Love & SONshine Ministries. Enjoy nutrition tips, refreshments, live music, and pop-ups from local businesses. Register on the D1 Fitness app.

AMR Car Seat Safety Checks August 9 (Billings) & August 19 (Lockwood)

10 AM – 2 PM | Free

Ensure your child’s car seat is properly installed with help from certified techs. A free and vital back-to-school safety check!

Magic City Wellness Expo Saturday, August 23 | 10 AM – 5 PM MetraPark – Montana Pavilion

Discover local wellness resources, attend seminars, and shop holistic vendors. Proceeds benefit addiction recovery efforts through Adult & Teen Challenge Billings. Gift totes, raffles, and kids 10 & under are free!

Originally printed in the August 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Never miss an issue, check out SLM's digital editions here!

Jessica Renstrom

Jessica is a Billings local with a background in marketing and a degree in Communications. She loves being a mom and soaking up time with her young children, especially during the holidays! You can catch her feeling festive and listening to Christmas music basically every day in December.

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