And just like that, our sixth annual Week of Hope has come and gone. It seems like just yesterday that we started this as a way to celebrate our 75th anniversary in 2020. Now here we are marking our 80th anniversary in 2025 and again, it was our honor (working alongside HopeKids) to welcome critically ill children and their families from across the U.S. to the ranch for a week where they could simply be, all while making memories with each other. And while we do it as a way for these families to unplug, relax, unwind and connect with one another, for Flathead Lake Lodge it’s one of the best weeks of the year. For 2026, we hosted 23 families during Week of Hope.
As is always the case, it takes many people, businesses and organizations pitching in to bring the week to life. We’re humbled every year by the people who step up, offer assistance and say “absolutely yes” for these wonderful families.
We’d like to thank the following for being such generous partners and for their donations to the 2025 Week of Hope:
-Logan Health donated nurses for 12 hours a day, as well as accessible vans for transportation to/from the airport.
–Backcountry Flying Experience gave 30-minute float plane rides around Flathead Lake.
–Dream Adaptive provided adaptive stand-up paddleboards and kayaks, as well as volunteers.
–Outback Trading Company donated hats for the children and their siblings.
–406 Hat Bar donated accessories for hats and provided volunteers to help each kid decorate their hat.
–Eva Gates Homemade Preserves donated huckleberry jam for welcome bags.
–Bigfork Ladies Service Club provided huckleberry licorice for welcome bags.
–Glacier Raft Company took 60 guests on scenic float trips.
–Bigfork Stagecoach Rides/Wrangler Springs provided complimentary stagecoach rides.
–Paul Andes/American Vision Photography provided family portrait sessions for 23 families.
-Coker’s Karts (discount on golf car rentals)
Here are a few words from our families:
“Montana was beautiful, but the most beautiful thing was getting to watch Luke and other kiddos have a week where they are included and able to do activities they normally wouldn’t be able to do. Forever grateful for HopeKids and everything they have done for our family.”
“I don’t want this week to end.”
“We left part of our hearts in Montana. I can truly say, without dramatics, this was one of the best experiences of our lives. It was an amazing feeling to be with a community where kids could be kids and us parents could relate and share our struggles.”
And finally, to our staff, volunteers and locals – thank you for all you do to make a Week of Hope happen. Your commitment, love and generosity are not overlooked.
Until we meet again,
-Chase