top of page
Search

How Allies In Aging Is Funded: A Community Partnership

  • Apr 21
  • 2 min read

At Allies in Aging, our work is made possible through a thoughtful blend of community generosity, earned revenue, and public investment. This balanced funding model allows us to serve older adults across Yellowstone County with stability, flexibility, and accountability. We are deeply grateful for the shared commitment behind both private and public dollars that sustain this work.


Donations from Supporters — 12%

Gifts from individual donors, families, businesses, and community partners play a vital role in sustaining our mission. These contributions are especially meaningful because they are often the most flexible funds we receive. They allow us to respond to urgent needs, strengthen programs, and fill gaps where restricted funding cannot be used. Every donation represents trust, shared values, and belief in supporting older adults with dignity and respect.


Client Service Fees — 12%

A portion of our support comes from fees charged for certain services. Our approach is person-centered and flexible: we work with each client’s financial situation and do not turn people away due to inability to pay. This earned revenue helps offset program costs while preserving access. It also reflects a partnership model in which those who are able contribute toward the services they receive, helping extend resources further across the community.


Competitive Grants — 5%

Grant funding comes through applications to foundations and other funding organizations. These awards often support program innovation, targeted initiatives, and service expansion. Grants help us pilot new approaches, strengthen training and quality, and reach underserved populations. We are thankful for the funders who invest in new ideas and measurable impact in aging services.


Yellowstone County Mill Levy — 45.9%

A pie chart showing the various sources of funding for Allies In Aging programs

A significant share of our funding comes through the voter-approved Yellowstone County Mill Levy. This local investment supports senior centers throughout the county as well as key direct service programs. Funds are distributed through an open annual application process that helps both rural and urban senior centers pursue their goals in serving older adults. Mill Levy support also strengthens countywide nutrition efforts, including senior food box programs delivered through community partners. We are especially thankful for the dedicated, forward-thinking community leaders and voters who helped pass three separate levies, creating a lasting foundation for aging services in our county. This funding reflects a strong local commitment to aging well.


State & Federal Older Americans Act Funding — 25.1%

State and federal Older Americans Act funds, distributed through the Area 2 Agency on Aging, support core services such as nutrition programs, caregiver support, and community-based assistance. These dollars form an essential foundation for aging services and help ensure continuity, standards, and reach across the region.


A Shared Investment in Older Adults

Together, these funding streams create a stable and resilient foundation for our work. Allies in Aging is supported by neighbors, taxpayers, partners, and clients — all contributing in different ways toward the same goal. We are grateful to be sustained by a community that believes older adults deserve strong services, trusted support, and lifelong connection.


If you would like to donate today, please visit us at alliesinaging.org/donate.


Allies In Aging Blog is brought to you by First Interstate Bank.

bottom of page