Monthly Archives: November 2025

Annual YBGR Kalispell Thanksgiving Dinner Brings Families Together

November 26, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

What brings families back to the same table year after year? A place where they feel supported, welcomed, and connected.

This week, families gathered once again in Kalispell for our annual Thanksgiving dinner hosted by our Child Welfare Prevention and Support Services (CWPSS) team. Local families, CASA workers, and partners from Child and Family Services joined us for an evening of sharing a meal, reconnecting, and strengthening the relationships that help kids thrive.

A Tradition Rooted in Family and Community Connection

This Thanksgiving dinner tradition began years ago in Kalispell with Berni McDonald, CWPSS Program Supervisor, and Tammy Eads, Administrative Supervisor—long before either joined our YBGR family.

Pictured: Tammy Eads, Kalispell Administrative Supervisor, and Berni McDonald, CWPSS Supervisor, at last night’s Thanksgiving celebration for families. This holiday tradition began years ago with Tammy and Berni—long before they joined the YBGR team. The two created it to support Flathead County families.

What began as a simple effort to bring people together has grown into a meaningful tradition for current families, program graduates, and our community partners, who form a critical network of support for the Flathead County residents we serve.

Since becoming part of the YBGR umbrella of care, our Child Welfare Prevention and Support Services program in Kalispell has helped dozens of families find stability and build strong foundations for the future.

Expanding Child Welfare Prevention and Support Services Across Montana

Because of the impact in Kalispell and the growing need statewide, our Child Welfare Prevention and Support Services program is now expanding across our community-based care locations.

The program partners with Child and Family Services—blending parent education, parent coaching, and care coordination to prevent separation, support reunification efforts, and strengthen family systems.

Events like this dinner show what that work looks like in action: connection, consistency, and a community that shows up for families.

To everyone who made this night possible—and to the families who open their lives to us—thank you. Your trust, care, and commitment are valued. We’re grateful for you.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned for our latest news updates from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch and YBGR.

YBGR Polson Expands Community-Based Care in Lake County

November 5, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) continues to extend its mission of caring people, preparing youth for life through the YBGR Polson office, part of the organization’s growing network of community-based services across Montana.

The Lake County team—Anna Paige, Home Support Services Specialist; Siera Chowning, Therapist; and Timothy Sellars, Targeted Case Manager—provides therapy, skill-building, and family support to help youth stay connected to their homes and schools. Their work strengthens family systems and builds the resilience needed for kids to thrive within their communities.

Strengthening Families Across Montana

Through YBGR’s community-based programs, families can access the care they need without having to travel far from home. From Polson to Billings and beyond, the care we provide touches the lives of children and families in nearly every county across Montana. Our teams work side by side with families in homes, schools, and community settings—empowering youth to grow stronger every day.

We’re grateful for the commitment of the YBGR Polson crew and for the Lake County families who partner with us in this vital work.

Stay Connected

How to Combat Caregiver Burnout Over the Holidays

November 4, 2025BlogKatie Gerten

Who doesn’t love the holidays? The shimmering lights, family gatherings, sweet treats, fireworks, and the sparkle of joy on kids’ faces as they tear open gifts on a cold December morning.

But as any parent knows, that magic doesn’t just happen—it takes work. And when you pile holiday preparations on top of an already full plate, caregiver burnout can creep in fast.

What Is Caregiver Burnout?

Caregiver burnout is the emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that comes from caring for others while neglecting your own needs. It can show up as irritability, fatigue, headaches, sleep issues, or feeling detached from those you love.

Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout

A change in attitude from feeling loving to feeling negative and unconcerned
Withdrawing from friends and family
Losing interest in things you previously enjoyed
Feeling crabby, hopeless, helpless, and exhausted
Changes in eating habits and body weight
Different sleep patterns.
Feeling under the weather or getting sick often

Do any of these sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone.

Many parents say the holiday season brings high levels of stress—and that tension can spill over, dimming the joy for you and your kids.

How to Prevent Caregiver Burnout During the Holidays

Most of us juggle multiple roles—parent, partner, professional, friend—and adding “holiday planner” to the list can feel like too much. Below are a few ways to reduce holiday stress and protect your well-being.

Ask for help.

You don’t have to do it all. Let others lend a hand—whether that’s asking a friend to bring dessert, a partner to take over bedtime, or a grandparent to host one event this year.

Don’t overdo it.

Perfection isn’t the goal—connection is. Simplify traditions, say no when needed, and focus on what truly matters to your family.

Talk it out.

When stress builds, share what’s on your mind. Sometimes a simple conversation with someone you trust can lighten the emotional load.

Take a break.

Rest isn’t indulgent—it’s essential. Step away for a quiet walk, schedule a sitter, or carve out an evening to unwind and recharge.

Seek professional support if you need it.

If your exhaustion lingers for more than two weeks and rest doesn’t help, it may be time to talk with a doctor or therapist. You don’t have to navigate burnout alone.

You’re Not Just a Caregiver—You’re Human

This season, give yourself permission to slow down and savor what really counts. A calmer, more present you is the best gift your family could ask for.

Want More?

Check out the rest of our blog and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at YBGR and Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.