From The President's Desk . . .

November 2007

The last year as been an exciting and busy one for the Montana Hope Project. We have had some changes in personnel during 2007. Cal Janes has added to his already busy life by taking the Vice-President duties on top of being our Secretary and Ride for Hope Coordinator. The ride continues to set new fundraising records for us. Perry Brown has stepped down after 14 years as Treasurer. Deb Butler is our new Treasurer, she is an Assistant Attorney General and married to Captain Tom Butler who is a board member of the Association of Montana Troopers. Bozeman Coordinator Trooper Darlene Lee and Billings Coordinator Dawn White now have a year under their belt with us and continue to search out kids and opportunities for the Hope Project.

The 2nd annual Montana Hope Open was held at the Yellowstone Club in Big Sky. It was another huge success and a great time for everybody. By the time this hits everyone’s mailbox, we will have had our 2nd annual Winter Reunion at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Last year had such a positive affect on everyone, we wanted to continue it.

Our specialty license plates hit the Treasurers offices around April and have been well received. You will see all Montana Highway Patrol cars sporting the new plates. I would encourage any and all to get these plates, it is a great way to show your support for the Hope Project.

Tiana Hader has been busy planning everyone’s wish as well as coordinating both reunions. We will finish the year granting 19 wishes with the total wish count since 1984 at 279.

Missoula was the scene of a Parent’s Prom this year. This was put on by Wish Child Wes Thomas who did it for his Eagle Scout Badge. It was unbelievable! Like the winter reunion, we have lots of requests to do it again. The Montana Hope Project is only as successful as all the individuals, businesses and corporations that assist us in making all of this possible. Without them, we would not be able to fulfill our mission and pledge to the communities we serve.

2007 was not without sorrow, we lost several wish children as well as the Patrol suffered it’s first line of duty death in over 29 years. Trooper David Graham was killed in a head-on crash by a full size pick-up that crossed the centerline and struck his patrol car. He leaves a wife and three small children. To his family and all of our wish families, may God look after each and every one of you. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone.

I would like to finish by thanking the wish families we serve -- they truly inspire us in every way possible. I know I speak for all the volunteers of the Hope Project when I say ... we are impressed and energized by your faith and commitment to each other.

Thank you!

Happy Holidays everyone and God Bless.

Richard L Hader