Through the generosity of the Gavin family in Missoula, three charitable organizations will benefit from nearly $3 million in endowments, the Humane Society of Western Montana, Providence Montana Health Foundation and Foundation for Community Health

Howard Gavin Distributing was a staple of Missoula business for many years, and the endowments have been provided through Howard's daughter Lorna 'Ann' Gavin.

Dorcie Dvarishkis, Executive Director of the Foundation for Community Health said their share of the endowment will be used to establish support for rehabilitation and education services.

"In our foundation we are going to be establishing the Gavin family Rehabilitation Services Endowment," Dvarishkis said. "The proceeds from that endowment each year can be considered to benefit rehabilitation education for professionals in the community, as well as some scholarships and on-the-ground support for rehab."

The Foundation for Community Health was created after the sale of Missoula Community Medical Center by Billings Clinic Regional Healthcare and its mission is philanthropic support for the advancement of healthy lives in western Montana.

Half of the $3 million endowment will go to support the Humane Society of Western Montana, with the other half divided equally between the Foundation for Community Health and the Providence Montana Health Foundation.

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