Executive director would like to see United Way expand its services

A single mom who raised seven children while working as a nursing assistant, Jodie Cross knows what it's like to live on a tight budget. She also knows what it’s like to need a little help.

Years before she came on as executive director of the Northwest Montana United Way she found herself accessing rental and education assistance from the nonprofit. Later she began volunteering on the organization’s board and then in April 2023 took on the leadership role. 

“At one point, I was homeless living in a camper with seven kids,” she said. “If I can do it anyone can and we want to see how United Way can help.”