Bonnie Hamilton

Bonnie Hamilton is a bright, committed, enthusiastic and caring member of her community. She exemplifies compassion and is willing to sacrifice in order to assist others. Bonnie definitely practices the lifestyle of service and has been acknowledged by the University of Montana School of Social Work as an outstanding senior volunteer.

Bonnie has been instrumental in many areas that have benefited more people that she will ever know. She was one of the persons instrumental in the founding of the Montana Eye Bank. The organizations priority is to help people who have sight needs. They also provide services and education for healthcare providers and hospitals that facilitate cornea donation. Bonnie also was one of the individuals who worked to help pass state legislation that would allow for improvements in the harvesting of corneas.

Bonnie and her family have a heart for children and want all children to have the ability to reach their potential. She helped to create the Mountain Home Montana, which is a residential facility for teen mothers and their children. This 6-bedroom facility provides a safe, loving home where teen mothers can discover their strengths and their children can experience the joys of childhood. Each resident plans their own personal development and sets goals with an on-site social worker. Continuing education is a priority here; if high school is not completed, residents re-enroll in adult education or work towards their GED.

Bonnie and her husband donated funds to establish the ongoing “Bonnie and Phil Hamilton Scholarship.” This will enable Native American graduate students obtain financial assistance while attending the University of Montana School of Social work.

Bonnie’s service to the community does not stop there. She is an ongoing supporter of the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch. This multi-service organization provides mental health services and programs to emotionally disturbed youth and their families. She is also a panel member on “Positive Aging” for Social Gerontology course at the University of Montana’s School of Social Work. In addition, she developed a portion of her personal property into a neighborhood park for children and families in her community.