Helena Exchange Club to give $13,000 to nine nonprofit partners

HELENA, Mont. — A Helena service group said it plans to send nearly $13,000 in community-raised money to nine longtime nonprofit partners.

The funding came through the Exchange Club of Helena’s Tips Matter initiative. Organizers said volunteers served beverages at community events throughout the year and sent the proceeds, including tips, back to local nonprofits, youth organizations and community efforts.

Organizers said the work focuses on supporting groups already doing direct work in the community.

"What we can do is raise funds. That’s what we do best and then give them to the people that are really putting in that person to person work," said Michelle Smetana.

Smetana, a board member with the Exchange Club of Helena, said the money will be handed out at a public event next week.