Events - LIFTT

SDSC Donation Tends Blooming Roots of Inclusive Garden

Hey folks—Garrett Mills here. You might not expect LIFTT’s Board Chair to be hanging out in a community garden, but here I am, elbow‑deep in soil, feeling energized by what’s growing among us.

As summer winds down, the first harvest season of LIFTT’s ADA Accessible All‑Inclusive Community Garden is in full swing. We couldn’t have done it without an incredible boost from San Diego Seed Company—a stellar organic seed provider that’s all about locally adapted, heirloom varieties, sustainable practices, and seed saving, tailoring their seeds to flourish in the varying microclimates of Southern California and the American West.

They’ve gifted us 800 packets of seed (a value of about $3,100) that span vegetables and herbs—each chosen with purpose, heart, and community in mind.

“This season’s garden is a patchwork of resilience, creativity, and possibility. Thanks to San Diego Seed Company’s generosity, we’re planting more than seeds—we’re growing connection, independence, and the joy of working alongside neighbors of all abilities,” I’m proud to say.

A Seed Company That Stands for More

Let me show you why San Diego Seed Company is a perfect match for LIFTT’s vision:

They nurture regionally adapted, organic, heirloom seeds—seeds that thrive in place and season.
They operate like a sustainable urban farm, hand-harvesting, on-site composting, recycling, and steering clear of synthetic chemicals—all to protect soil health and community wellness.
They empower small‑scale and home growers, offering education through their Garden Wisdom Blog, classes, and more—helping gardeners become confident, connected, and

Those are values that resonate deeply with LIFTT’s mission to empower aging and disabled individuals to live independently through education, opportunity, and connection.

What’s Next for LIFTT’s Garden?

Continued Growth: With seed packets in the ground, we’re gearing up for a bountiful selection of veggies and herbs in future seasons. Cultivating Knowledge: We’ll be leveraging San Diego Seed Company’s approach—teaching planting, seed saving, and sustainable methods—to enrich our gardeners’ experience. Growing Community: The garden isn’t just about produce; it’s our open-air classroom, fellowship hub, and source of shared joy.

To learn more or see the garden in action, please send us a message via liftt.org/contact or call us at (406) 259-5181.

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

Our Vision: Empowering aging and disabled individuals to LIFTT themselves above the barriers of life.

Our Mission: Living Independently for Today and Tomorrow – LIFTT’s mission is to empower aging and disabled individuals to live independently through education, support, and opportunities.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Celebrate 35 years of the ADA LIFTT Style on July 26!

Mark your calendars and get ready to party with purpose — LIFTT is thrilled to announce our upcoming celebration of the 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)! It’s more than an event — it’s a milestone in the movement for equity, independence, and inclusion for people with disabilities nationwide.

On Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at LIFTT’s Billings office, 1241 Crawford Drive, we’ll gather as a community to honor the legacy of the ADA, spotlight our local heroes, and remind the world that accessibility is a right, not a privilege.

What’s in Store?

You won’t want to miss this! We’ve got an amazing lineup that’s shaping up to be the highlight of the summer:

20+ organizations confirmed — a true collaboration of advocates, allies, and changemakers.
7 guest speakers, each with powerful stories and visionary insight.
Living Well in Community Graduation- Celebrate our exceptional LWC students as they complete the 11-week program
5 LIFTT speakers — including Jed Barton, Jen Hawkinson, Tonette Jensen, Darren Able, and Carlos Ramalho — are ready to ignite the crowd with energy and purpose.
Raffles, sweet treats, and surprises galore, including a special basket designed by Theresa Sand and funded in part by Scheels.
Cake AND cupcakes — because celebrations should be delicious.

Chill, Sip & Celebrate

Thanks to a generous donation from Mazevo, we’ll be serving up iced coffee to keep you cool and energized, along with our cozy hot coffee and tea station for those who like their caffeine the classic way. Expect a few flavored creamers, too — we believe coffee should be fun.

Community, Connection & Commemorative Shirts

Our volunteers and peer supporters are the heart of this event, and they’ll be honored with free event shirts — a small token of our massive appreciation. Want one? You’ll have to come and see how you can be part of the celebration next year!

More Than a Party

This isn’t just a day of speeches and sugar — it’s a hands-on, inclusive experience. The Western Heritage Center will be providing an exhibit flyer as part of the celebration. And yes, LIFTT tents, chairs, tables, and the crew from Billings to Glendive will be making this event a full-scale community effort.

Staff are rolling up their sleeves, setting up early, and making sure every detail is just right. Because this isn’t just an event — it’s our legacy.

Stay in the Loop and Thanks to our Team!

We’re updating our flyer and inviting everyone to like and share the event on Facebook. If you haven’t RSVP’d yet — this is your sign! Come for the connection, stay for the celebration, and leave with the inspiration to keep pushing forward.

A massive shoutout to the amazing folks making it all happen: Anya Pulis, Holly Hanson, Jed Barton, Tanya Thomas, Rachial Combs, Danial Grubaugh, Mike Nelson, Lauren Hunley, and so many others working together to ensure this ADA celebration reflects the spirit of Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow.

Join us, Celebrate with us, Reflect and reimagine with us

Whether you’re a long-time advocate, a curious community member, or someone just learning about the ADA, there’s a place for you here.

Don’t miss our LIFTT’s ADA Celebration on Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 1241 Crawford Drive in Billings. Let’s celebrate 35 years of progress — and keep the momentum going for the next 35!

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

LIFTT Board of Directors meets June 5

The LIFTT Board of Directors will hold an ordinary meeting on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 4 p.m. in the board room of the Billings LIFTT office at 1241 Crawford Drive. The public is invited to attend the meeting and offer comments during the public comment period.

Click here to view or download the meeting agenda for the June 5, 2025, LIFTT board of directors meeting. (Adobe PDF)

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Extraordinary Board Meeting May 23

The LIFTT board of directors will hold an extraordinary meeting on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 7 a.m. at the Billings LIFTT office (1241 Crawford Drive). The public is invited to attend and offer comments during the public comment period.

Click here to view or download the agenda for the May 23, 2025, Extraordinary LIFTT Board of Directors meeting. (Adobe PDF)

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Extraordinary Board Meeting May 18

The LIFTT board of directors will hold an extraordinary meeting on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 8 a.m. at the Billings LIFTT office (1241 Crawford Drive). The public is invited to attend and offer comments during the public comment period.

Click here to view or download the agenda for the May 18, 2025, Extraordinary LIFTT Board of Directors meeting. (Adobe PDF)

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Community Garden Kick Off is May 16

Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT) will hold a kick-off event for LIFTT’s ADA Accessible All-Inclusive Community Garden on Friday, May 16, at 1 p.m. at the LIFTT Billings office (1241 Crawford Drive). Come join us as we inaugurate this inclusive, safe, and supportive space for growing healthy, fresh produce, connecting with others, and enjoying nature! Anthony Sammareto from the Montana State University Extension Service will offer a workshop full of expert tips on starting your garden plot and having a successful growing season.

Reserve Your Plot Today!

All are invited to participate in the LIFTT Accessible Community Garden. Your $10 registration fee helps to cover the cost of watering and maintaining the garden this season. It also provides some seeds, the use of our growing library of gardening tools, including many specifically adapted to make gardening more accessible for people with disabilities, and access to guidance from some expert green thumbs! Can’t make it on May 16? No worries, you can still join us this season!

For more information about the LIFTT’s ADA Accessible All-Inclusive Community Garden or to reserve your plot, Click Here!, call (406) 259-5181, or stop by the Billings LIFTT office during regular business hours.

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Lower Back Pain & Sciatica Workshop May 19

Join LIFTT as we welcome the experts from North 40 Physical Therapy for a FREE workshop to help those experiencing sciatica and lower back pain. Learn techniques and exercises to relieve and heal your pain naturally!

The workshop will be held on Monday, May 19, from 4 to 5 p.m. in the community room of the Billings LIFTT office at 1241 Crawford Drive. For more information about the Lower Back Pain and Sciatica Workshop, contact North 40 Physical Therapy at (406) 318-8340 or LIFTT Nutritional Health Coach Anya Pulis at (406) 606-1766, anyap@liftt.org.

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Living Well in Community Workshop begins May 1

Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT) is pleased to announce that we will be conducting a “Living Well in Community” (LWC) Workshop. The 11-week workshop begins on Thursday, May 1, and will run for 11 sessions through Thursday, July 17 (with no session on Thursday, July 3), from 5:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Participants completing the workshop will be honored at a graduation ceremony during LIFTT’s ADA celebration on Saturday, July 26.

The workshop will be hybrid, available both in person at the Billings LIFTT office and online to participants throughout our 18-county service area.

Designed as part of the Healthy Community Living (HCL) program and rooted in the Independent Living Philosophy, the LWC workshop is a dynamic, interactive course that helps you take control of your health, well-being, and personal goals.

Throughout the 11 sessions, you’ll build a toolbox of practical skills to help you:

Set and achieve meaningful, realistic goals
Strengthen your support system and stay motivated
Improve communication and build stronger relationships
Make healthier choices for your body and mind
Learn how to advocate for yourself and your medical needs
Maintain the positive changes you make

Whether you’re navigating a personal challenge or simply seeking to feel more empowered and connected, this workshop is for you. Participants often say it feels less like a class and more like a weekly gathering with friends who truly understand and support one another.

LWC is provided free of charge to participants. To register or for more information, contact LIFTT’s lead LWC facilitator, Tanya Thomas, at (406) 702-8927 or tanyat@liftt.org

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings, Glendive, and Red Lodge, LIFTT provides people with disabilities with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and southcentral Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Stillwater, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app on Apple or Google Play. You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Flash Tattoo Fundraiser for LIFTT April 12 to May 1

Hey Tattoo Lovers and Supporters of LIFTT!

LIFTT and Legendary Tattoo Studio and Art Gallery of Billings are teaming up to host a “Flash Fundraiser” for LIFTT between Saturday, April 12, and Thursday, May 1!

Together, we’ve created a powerful series of empowerment tattoos that honor and represent the journey of those living with disabilities—whether physical, mental, or emotional.

These unique designs are part of a Tattoo Flash Sale Fundraiser, and every inked piece will directly support LIFTT’s mission to help disabled and elderly individuals live more independent and empowered lives.

WHEN: April 12 to May 1

COST: Starting at just $100 per tattoo

TO SCHEDULE: Call Legendary Tattoo Studio at 406-534-8760 or stop by Legendary at 1126 16th Street W in the Alpine Village Plaza.

Come get inked for a cause. Show your support through art. Help us make a lasting impact!

Join us, spread the word, and let’s raise awareness—one tattoo at a time.

Here are some of the samples of empowering Tattoo designs that will be available during the LIFTT Flash Tattoo fundraiser April 12 through May 1 at Legendary Tattoo in BIllings.
More samples of empowering Tattoo designs that will be available during the LIFTT Flash Tattoo fundraiser April 12 through May 1 at Legendary Tattoo in BIllings.
More samples of empowering Tattoo designs that will be available during the LIFTT Flash Tattoo fundraiser April 12 through May 1 at Legendary Tattoo in BIllings.
More samples of empowering Tattoo designs that will be available during the LIFTT Flash Tattoo fundraiser April 12 through May 1 at Legendary Tattoo in BIllings.
More samples of empowering Tattoo designs that will be available during the LIFTT Flash Tattoo fundraiser April 12 through May 1 at Legendary Tattoo in BIllings.

Disclaimer: This is a voluntary event, and participation is at your own discretion. Choosing to get a tattoo is entirely your decision. Getting the LIFTT logo tattooed is not permitted.

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

LIFTT & Apex Fitness to hold workshop April 28

Join us at LIFTT’s Billings office (1241 Crawford Drive) on Monday, April 28, for an empowering and informative event with Luke McLaughlin, co-owner and personal trainer at Apex Fitness and Personal Training! Luke will share his expertise on the importance of strength training as we age, along with practical tips and simple exercises to help you build strength, improve mobility, and boost overall wellness—no matter your fitness level.

Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to stay strong and independent as you age, this is a great opportunity to learn from a pro and get moving in a supportive environment.

The workshop will be beginner-friendly, featuring live demonstrations and an open question & answer period.

For more information about the Apex Fitness strength training workshop and the rest of LIFTT’s health and wellness offerings, including our regular Monday Strength Training Class and Tai Chi Tuesdays, contact our nutritional health coaches, Anya Pullis, (406) 606-1766, anyap@liftt.org or Eileen Rodriguez, (406) 294-5185, eileenr@liftt.org

Don’t miss out—mark your calendar for Monday, April 28, at 4 p.m. and bring a friend!

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.