Girls Thrive Hosts Film Fundraiser Supporting Local Girls Sports Programs

On Tuesday evening the Myrna Loy theater became a gathering point for families and supporters of girls athletics when Girls Thrive screened the Kids Program from the No Man’s Land Film Festival. Doors opened at 5 30 p.m. and the program began around 6 00 p.m. The lineup focused on films that center girls and women in outdoor sport and adventure, and organizers presented the screening as both an educational opportunity and a fundraiser to close the nonprofit’s fiscal year.

The event reinforced Girls Thrive’s core mission to support young women in grades 4 to 12 through sports programming and coaching support. Ticketing information listed on event pages set general admission at fifteen dollars for adults and ten dollars for children, while current Girls Thrive participants and coaches were admitted free. Local event pages also referenced sponsors and provided ticketing details to encourage community attendance.

For Lewis and Clark County residents the screening served multiple purposes. It exposed youth and families to role models and narratives that emphasize female participation in outdoor recreation, and it sought contributions to sustain programming that directly serves school age girls across Helena and surrounding communities. As an end of fiscal year fundraiser the screening also touched on a broader financial reality for small nonprofits, where seasonal events and one time donations can determine program continuity into the next budget year.

The films’ focus on barriers faced by girls in sports aligns with longstanding concerns in education and public health about participation drop off during adolescence. Local leaders and program planners view investments in girls athletics not only as a matter of equity but also as a preventive measure that promotes physical health, social skills and community engagement. Sustained funding for coaching, equipment and outreach can influence participation patterns and expand access for students who might otherwise be priced out or discouraged.

Beyond immediate revenues, the screening functioned as a community signal about priorities for youth development in the region. If fundraising targets are met the proceeds will bolster Girls Thrive programming for grades 4 to 12, enabling expanded offerings and continued partnerships with schools, coaches and recreation providers. The event also provided a platform for conversations about how local policy and private support can reduce barriers and widen participation for girls in sport across Lewis and Clark County.