Annual Events
The Festival of Trees is…
The holiday event of the season! The Festival of Trees is the major fund-raiser for The Family Tree Center. The Festival has become one of the finest community activities, garnering support from banks, hospitals, churches, non-profit organizations, local businesses, schools and scout troops.
Begun in 1985, the Festival of Trees has become synonymous with the holiday season in Billings. For many residents and visitors, the holidays would not be complete without at least one visit to view the trees or participate in the weekend activities.
Each year, the Festival of Trees provides an opportunity for community members to help prevent child abuse and neglect in Yellowstone County and the surrounding area. Donating or buying a tree, sponsoring the event, or participating in one of the many weekend activities during the Festival helps raise money and awareness; both help The Family Tree Center.
Over the course of this 4-day event, over 10,000 people pass through the doors to view the unique Holiday Trees and participate in the assortment of activities.
All dollars raised at the Festival go where they are needed most—toward the many child abuse prevention programs in place at The Family Tree Center. Referrals are increasing, and the number of families that we serve continues to grow. Now more than ever, the Family Tree Center needs your support.
Please join us in our efforts to “stop the hurt before it happens.”
View the 2011 Trees
2012 People's Choice Award
A Black Tie Affair
Walla Walla University Billings Campus
2011 People's Choice Award
Safari Christmas
Arneson Law Office
2010 People's Choice Award
Winter Play
Walla Walla University Billings Campus
2009 People's Choice Award
O' Holy Night
St. Vincent Healthcare NICU
Stockings for Smiles
Child Abuse Prevention Month - April
In April, the Center participates in many activities designed to heighten awareness of child abuse and neglect in our community and inform individuals of the resources we provide to help build strong families. We encourage members of the community to come in and find out about the programs and services we offer and also to sign up to volunteer.
Pinwheels for Prevention
View the
2013 Pinwheel display
Our Pinwheels for Prevention event - a national campaign in cooperation with Prevent Child Abuse America (PCA) raises awareness of the problem of child abuse and neglect. This symbol of a happy childhood is (not-so-coincidentally) also the vibrant symbol of Prevent Child Abuse America’s efforts to change the way our nation thinks about child abuse prevention. It represents the importance of focusing on community activities and public policies that make prevention a priority to ensure that child maltreatment never occurs.
Blue Ribbon Award
Since 2004, we have presented our annual Blue Ribbon Award to a person or organization that has made a significant contribution to child abuse prevention in our community.
We Are Proud to Announce Our 2013 Blue Ribbon Award winner is...
Don Floberg
2012 - Kelly McCann, Computer Geek
2011 - Billings Chi-Tu Do
2010 - E.C.I. – Electrical Consultants, Inc.
2009 - Billings Exchange Clubs
2008 - Rep. Alan Olson
2007 - Sen. Conrad Burns
2005 - Dale & Kathy Rumph
2004 - Bill & Mary Underriner
A special thank you to all of our Blue Ribbon Award winners for your generous support and contributions to The Family Tree Center. Without supporters like you, we would be unable to fulfill our mission.
Island X Adventure Run
Click here for race results- THANK YOU Participants
THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS!
Be a part of the first annual Island X Adventure Run. Fun for all ages and ability levels, this run takes place at beautiful Riverfront Park on Saturday June, 1st at 9am. Come “Survive the Island” as you navigate this fun and exciting course. It’s a race like no other! Cost is $20. Your entry fee includes prizes, refreshments, and a sport-tech tee (if registered by May 20, for those registering after May 20 shirts will be ordered and available for pick up at a later date). There will also be a kids’ race which will be free. All proceeds from this race benefit the Family Tree Center and their efforts to prevent child abuse in our community. Costumes are encouraged (think “Survivor” or a tropical theme) with prizes for best costumes - be the first winner of the “Jimmy Buffet” award for island style! A race that serves sports drinks with umbrellas at the end?? I’m in! Register online at www.imathlete.com or for more information contact the Family Tree Center at 252-9799.
