Collective Capacity Cohort: Unhoused Helena

In October 2025, the City of Helena approved funding for the Helena Area Community Foundation (HACF) to launch the Collective Capacity Cohort: Unhoused Helena—a new initiative designed to support and strengthen the nonprofits already serving our unhoused neighbors.

Coordinated by HACF and guided by a steering committee of community leaders, the cohort focuses on capacity building, collaboration, and shared problem-solving among housing-focused organizations. Through organizational readiness support, leadership development, systems thinking, and fundraising strategy, the program aims to improve alignment and effectiveness across local providers addressing one of Helena’s most complex challenges.

We are currently in the assessment phase, conducting readiness surveys and interviews to identify approximately five nonprofits for the first cohort. Selected organizations will receive individualized support, participation grants, and a structured learning experience to help them plan, collaborate, and prepare for future funding opportunities—ultimately strengthening Helena’s nonprofit infrastructure around emergency shelter and related services.

Cohort participants will also help direct $50,000 or more in funding toward community-based programming that improves outcomes for unhoused residents.

More updates will be shared as the program moves into the selection and implementation stages.