The Montana Tech Foundation joined forces with sponsors and teams from the Big Sky Volleyball Challenge to help the local community.

Teams in the Mining City for the Montana Tech-hosted volleyball tournament donated money along with sponsors to the Butte Food Bank’s Backpack Program. Those funds were matched by the Montana Tech Foundation to increase the donation. A total of $1,500 was collected for the program.

“We are very thankful for the community supporting our event and we want to return the favor,” said Teach head coach Brian Solomon. “Supporting the youth in the Butte community is important to us and the Backpack Program is a great cause to get behind.”

Tournament sponsors Steele’s Furniture, Glacier Bank, and Community Counseling Correction Services donated along with schools participating in the tournament.

The Backpack Program operated by the Butte Food Bank gives food to children in need through the school system.

“We believe the Backpack Program in Butte is essential for our youth,” said Joe McClafferty, president of the Montana Tech Foundation. “Our brains function better when we aren’t starving and worried where our next meal will come. We are honored to again donate to the program. We thank the Food Bank for all their outstanding efforts with this program and helping the youth of our community.”

The Orediggers hosted 13 teams from around Montana and the country August 26-27. All of the matches took place at the Civic Center in the third installment of the collegiate tournament. The Orediggers finished the weekend 3-1.

— Montana Tech