WHAT IS THE NATE CHUTE FOUNDATION? |
The Nate Chute Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to reducing suicide in western Montana through education, outreach, and training.
While the overall suicide rate in Montana remains at or near the highest in the nation, youth suicide in Flathead County has decreased over the past decade. It is impossible to know to what extent the activities and programs of NCF played in this decrease. However, we firmly believe that our focused efforts help individuals and families recognize the warning signs of suicide and know how to get help, and that our efforts have saved lives. If we have kept only one person from attempting or completing suicide, all our efforts are worthwhile. |
OUR HISTORY
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The Nate Chute Foundation was founded in 1999 following the suicide death of Nate Chute, an 18 year-old graduate of Whitefish High School. Nate planned to attend Montana State University, when he unexpectedly took his life in August of 1999.
The idea for the foundation came from Nate’s friends, who wanted to help make sure a tragedy like this did not happen again. In the beginning, our primary focus was to meet the needs of the community as they arose. We provided financial assistance for training for teachers, local clergy and police officers; funded suicide prevention commercials on local television stations; supported the Whitefish High School ROPES program; offered funding for Whitefish CARE; supported depression screening for students; and provided financial assistance for mental health counseling. Currently, NCF's efforts are focused through three primary program areas that reflect and honor all of that initial work. We now consistently offer: evidence-based training to identify suicidal behavior and intervene when necessary; support to area schools through student education on signs of suicide and by supporting individual school district programs to promote resiliency and reduce instances of suicide; and by offering financial assistance for professional counseling to young people at risk of suicide. |
HOW YOU
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NCF receives funding through grants and fund raising events. However, over half of the funding for ongoing projects depends on private donations from people like you. We welcome your help! If you are interested in volunteering or making a tax deductible donation please contact us.
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