Are you worried about the future of our democracy? So are we. 

Our country is deeply polarized. Misinformation and conspiracy theories cloud nearly every community discussion – from online message boards to school board meetings. State legislatures are gutting voting rights and the integrity of the judicial system, making it harder for young Montanans to engage in the civic process. And now, we have a once in a decade opportunity to shape the future through redistricting.  If there was ever a time to address democracy, elections, and representation, it’s now. 

That’s why, we’re educating, engaging, and organizing young Montanans to shape their democracy to improve their lives and the lives of their fellow Montanans.

Our Values:

Inclusive

We work toward a democracy that celebrates and reflects the diversity of our generation while being actively anti-oppressive through our actions and choices.

Progressive

We believe in moving us not left, not right, but forward. We are transforming our government and communities to become more just, sustainable, and equitable.

Fun

We make politics fun by building authentic relationships with other young people, challenging power with humor, and recognizing that laughter is a powerful political tool.

Innovative

We deliver inventive strategies and solutions to complex cultural and political challenges. We are on the cutting edge when it comes to young people’s participation in politics.

Young person-led

We seek to ensure that our members’ voices are directly reflected in our decisions and that young leaders are at the forefront of our movement.

Power Building

We are changing the culture of civic engagement by helping our communities build the skills, resources, and leadership to create meaningful change in Montana.

Our Theory of Change:

If we deepen young Montanan’s’ culture of civic engagement and build the knowledge, skills, and leadership of young Montanans who reflect the diversity of our state to create change in their communities, more young people will become lifetime voters and activists, run for and win public office, and advance issues and conversations that address the complex challenges facing young Montanans today and tomorrow.

How we got our start

Homegrown & Grassroots

Forward Montana Foundation was founded in 2004 by a group of passionate students at the University of Montana who felt there were a lot of barriers getting young people involved in politics. Their first fights were at the university and the local level and focused on recycling, renewable energy, sexual assault and tenant rights. We’ve now grown into the largest youth civic engagement organization in Montana, with year-round staff in Billings, Bozeman, and Missoula.