WORD is one of Missoula’s longest established and most experienced non-profit organizations. In 1986 we had one part-time staff member and an office space of 225 square feet. Today we are a paid staff of 27, plus 20-25 AmeriCorps members who work in area Family Resource Centers.

WORD first received public recognition in 1987 when seventy-five of its volunteers walked to each Missoula area legislator’s home protesting the economic conditions for women on welfare. The walk received front page newspaper coverage and WORD, entrepreneurial from the start, used the tide of interest to launch a demonstration project that focused on the empowerment of women as a way to move off the welfare system.

From initial programs that provided self-employment training and loan funds to women, through responding to Missoula’s housing crisis in the mid 1990’s, and onward to our five main programs WORD has grown and changed as women’s needs have evolved.

Our networking efforts are as vital and relevant as ever. We have been awarded national recognition for our work. Our future includes new programs based on the needs and interests of those we serve.