
The Montana School for the Deaf and the Blind (MSDB) engaged in a month-long food drive, sponsored by the Montana Federation of Public Employees local #4027. The drive, themed “Cats vs. Griz,” commenced on January 15. Participants donated items and money to buy listed items. To enhance the spirit, two boxes were set up on campus for Griz and Cat fans to contribute to their respective teams. The drive included a friendly competition between Mr. Jim Kelly, director of student life (a Griz fan), and Mr. Paul Furthmyre, our superintendent (a Cat fan). Depending on the donations, the loser would take action: Mr. Kelly would wear MSU colors for a day if the Griz won, while Mr. Furthmyre would receive pies to the face if the Cats won. After a month, the food drive ended in mid-February with the Griz fans emerging victorious. As a result, Mr. Furthmyre ended up on the receiving end of six pies to the face.
The community united for a meaningful cause, and the friendly rivalry between Griz and Cat fans added an exciting touch to the initiative, inspiring increased donations. This event not only fostered campus unity but also showcased how unity and generosity can create a positive impact on those in need. Our campus pantry is now stocked and prepared to support our community members. The display of support and camaraderie was heartwarming, reflecting the values we strive to uphold at MSDB. To view the video, visit Facebook page MtSDB.
MSDB is a prek-12 school serving 1,200 students in their own hometowns across Montana. Some students are deaf/hard of hearing while others are blind/low vision. About 40 of them attend school on MSDB’s 10-acre campus located in Great Falls. The school serves 101 students in Cascade County alone. To learn more about MSDB, visit www.msdbmustangs.org.
By Brynn Klinefelter, Mt School for the Deaf and Blind: March 14, 2024 – Great Falls, Mt