Q: Can you share the moment that inspired 1,000 in Action?

A: It all started in 2021 when I came across a tragic story of child abuse in Great Falls. The details were gut-wrenching, and I couldn’t stop thinking, “Something has to change.” That same day, I met a client who happened to be a first responder on the case, and hearing his perspective only deepened my resolve.“I couldn’t sleep for days. Finally, I realized that if we all feel like we don’t have enough time or money to make a difference, what if we came together? A little from everyone could add up to something big.”

Q: What’s the concept behind 1000 in Action?

A: “The idea is simple: if 1,000 people each give $100 a year, or $10 a month, that’s $100,000 we can use to fight child abuse. We pool contributions from the community and work with our advisory committee to make sure the money goes exactly where it’s needed.”

Q: What sets your approach apart from other nonprofits?

A: “We have virtually zero overhead, everything from our website to event venues has been donated. That means 100 percent of what our members give goes straight to the kids.”  

Everyone who dedicates their time to this group, does so on a voluntary basis, including the organization’s administration team. 

The group’s advisory committee includes professionals in child welfare, law enforcement, and counseling. “We bring together people with decades of experience and ask, ‘What are the biggest causes of the problem, and how can we fix it?’” 

They meet quarterly to ensure every dollar has maximum impact.

Q: Can you share a success story that illustrates your impact?

A: “Last year, we covered the rent for Toby’s House for an entire year. They provide drop-in childcare for parents with no safety net, mostly moms who might otherwise have to leave their kids in unsafe situations. It was incredible to know we helped keep their doors open.”

Q: What challenges are you facing, and how can people help?

A: While 1,000 in Action has grown, the group is still far from its goal of 1,000 recurring members. “We need those consistent donations of $10 a month or $100 a year. Otherwise, we’re starting over at zero every January, and we can only sustain that for so long,” 

This year, they’ve raised $57,000 so far and are pushing to hit $70,000 by year’s end. 

“November and December are important months because people are looking for ways to give back, and it’s the perfect time to join us.”

Q: What’s next for 1000 in Action?

A: “We collect funds throughout the year and distribute checks in December. Local nonprofits apply, and they have to show how their work ties directly to child abuse prevention. Then our advisory committee decides where the funds will make the biggest impact.”

Looking ahead, they hope to grow awareness. “The more people hear about us, the more momentum we gain. Every year it feels like we’re starting to snowball.”

Ready to make an impact? Visit https://1000inaction.org/join-our-cause/ to join 1,000 in Action.