Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: How Helena’s YWCA changes lives—and why it still needs help

Spotted on the Helena calendar: Helena Fall Vintage Market

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Good morning Helena! We're back in your inbox this morning to keep you in the loop with what's happening in and around town. Grab a cup of coffee and read on. ☕️️

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In today's newsletter:

  • How Helena's YWCA changes lives—and why it still needs help
  • What's next for Helena's former governor's mansion site on Carson Street?
  • What kids are discovering on Helena's new wildlife Tracks Trail

Also on today's calendar: Steak Fry fundraiser and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: Do you know what the two sides of a circle are? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

  • Thursday: Mostly sunny and very warm, with a high of 83 and low of 50 degrees.
  • Friday: Warm with a shower or two, temps: high: 86, low: 49. 🌶 Hot!
  • Saturday: Partly sunny and cooler, with a high of 65 and low of 41 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. YWCA of Helena residents share stories of recovery and resilience (ktvh.com) — Helena's YWCA is pushing toward a $100,000 fundraising goal to keep its historic shelter running and support women and children recovering from homelessness and addiction. Residents shared powerful stories of rebuilding their lives, while staff highlighted ongoing needs like clothing, childcare, transportation, and affordable housing that directly affect vulnerable Helena families.
   

2. Former Montana Governor's Mansion will be torn down (fairfieldsuntimes.com) — A state advisory council has voted 8–1 to demolish the former governor's residence at 2 Carson Street in Helena and replace it with green space, citing millions in repair costs and serious safety issues. Neighbors are split between nostalgia and excitement for a new park, while Governor Gianforte continues living at Helena's Old Hauser Mansion, which his family plans to donate to the state.
   

3. Montana's Tracks Trail gives kids hands-on lesson in wildlife habitat (ypradio.org) — Kids in Helena and East Helena now have a new Tracks Trail exhibit in one of the city's newest parks, turning a former smelter site into a hands-on wildlife classroom. Local students study stream health, beaver habitat, and migratory birds while learning why open space and environmental restoration matter right in their own backyard.
   

4. Grizzly Bear Releases, Fishing Regulation Updates in Montana (wearegreatfalls.com) — A key Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting is coming to Helena on October 15, where officials will tackle grizzly bear release sites, fishing regulations, recreation fees, and motorized-use rules. Residents can still weigh in online on these proposals, which affect rivers, lakes, and recreation access across Montana before commissioners make final decisions.
   

5. Governor Gianforte Launches Fifth Annual Youth Hunting Story Contest (mt.gov) — From Helena, Governor Gianforte is inviting Montana youth hunters ages 10 to 17 to submit 500-word stories and photos from their hunts for the fifth annual Youth Hunting Story Contest. Ten winners will be honored at the State Capitol in January and receive prizes from outdoor gear partners, with entries due by December 2, 2026.
   

📸 Around Helena

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • This lovely cat is now sitting in an open field to the west of leisure village.
    It seemed pretty calm around my dog. Just putting it out in case somebody is looking for their cat. (Nextdoor Leisure Village PLUR W's)
  • A UPS package was delivered to our house today for Olga C Austin.
    Has anyone any knowledge of this person? I am stumped. I guess I'll just take it back to UPS. (Nextdoor Central)
  • Staples, Inc. posted a job opening for Retail Sales Supervisor in Helena. Apply here.
  • Chili's posted a job opening for Server - Helena Chili's in Helena. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Helena here.

Ok Helena! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: The inside and the outside ! (Thank you James M. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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