Global Entrepreneur in Roundup, MT Creates Charitable Foundation to Support Children in Rural Montana's Mental and Emotional Health with preference given to Roundup, Choteau, and Dutton, Montana
February 8, 2023
Jody DeBruycker Dahl, a dedicated business leader involved internationally in civic, financial and corporate life, has created the Jody Alise Foundation, which is excited to provide funding to rural Montana, especially Roundup, Choteau and Dutton. It aims to help organizations and individuals focused on improving children’s mental and emotional health.
Roundup, MT, January 2023 – Interview with Jody DeBruycker Dahl, Founder of the Jody Alise Foundation, Entrepreneur and Owner of Leeloo Trading.
What is the Jody Alise Foundation? The Jody Alise Foundation will provide much-needed funding to programs and organizations in rural Montana, with preference given to Roundup, Choteau and Dutton. The Foundation aims to support children’s mental and emotional health and well-being, and will offer funding over the next three decades to directly benefit children. And that, over time, has opportunity to really make an impact!
Why did you create the Jody Alise Foundation? I believe that every child has the right to the same opportunities, regardless of their life experiences. The Jody Alise Foundation came about as a result of my lifelong dedication to giving back. Growing up, my siblings and I were always taught by our parents that it is important to think of others, and to do whatever we could to leave the world a better place – even if it’s just a kind smile or a small gesture to another person. I was also shocked by the statistics on mental health issues pertaining to kids in Montana (see below*) and wanted to try take an active role to provide monetary support to make a difference.
In what ways did your parents influence you to help others? They would always say: “Do the best you can to give back to others, and raise your children to give back and help society. It’s our job to leave the world a better place than how we found it for the next generation”. Our mom, Jane, always did whatever she could to create programs or offer help to children. She mothered many children throughout her adulthood, and earned trust by offering respect and love that they needed. As a result, my sisters always helped with children within the community that needed additional guidance or love. Being the youngest of 7, you would always see my sisters with extra children with them, never just their own! Our late father, Lloyd, was eager to help neighbors and friends getting started in business, as well as extend something kind to new people he met each day. Being born to first-generation immigrant parents, he knew the value of hard work and helping one another. Our parents believed that it is our responsibility to give back in life, and they taught this very important message to me and my six siblings, and now, to nearly 50 grandchildren and great-grandchildren!
When did you realize one of your life goals was to help others? Ever since I was little, I’ve had a passion for doing what I can to think of others. Now, I finally have an opportunity to take it to the next level by creating a Foundation that will benefit children in Montana for decades to come.
Before creating the Jody Alise Foundation, what other charitable ventures did you initiate? I’m so thankful to say that over the past 20 years, my children and I have been active in trying to do what we could for others. We raised close to $1 million through events, grants that I applied for to benefit individuals, families and organizations as well as friendly fundraising that directly impacted the lives of many in Montana - kids and families! With this, I saw an opportunity to take a more active role in solving real issues affecting children across Montana. I talked with Brigem, Colt and Chyna and as a whole we thought it would be beneficial to create a Foundation.
How do you believe the Jody Alise Foundation will help those in Montana? I’m a strong proponent that all individuals deserve the same opportunities, and that begins with mental and emotional health. I believe this foundation can fill in funding gaps that are currently preventing organizations from providing much-needed services and resources and are preventing individuals from receiving proper support. Research illustrates that there is a strong connection between mental and emotional health, which encompasses the ability to manage stress and emotions, and the capacity to cope with challenges. Mental and emotional health is closely linked to success in various areas of life, including work, relationships and personal growth, and individuals with good emotional and mental health are more resilient in the face of adversity. I believe that it is now, more important than ever, to build a stronger mental health support system that provides the care, equipment and services needed to help people build better lives.
Who are you looking to work with on the Jody Alise Foundation? I want to work with any person, program or organization supporting the mental, emotional and inspirational health of children. Any programs designed to keep kids on the right track and keep them moving forward as positively as possible in their life or to simply provide them with a steppingstone.
Who can apply for help from the Foundation and how? Any individuals, programs or organizations who believe they would benefit from the Jody Alise Foundation are encouraged to apply at http://www.JodyAliseFoundation.com when applications open in April 2023.
If you have any questions, please contact the foundation at http://www.JodyAliseFoundation.com
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