Volunteer Feature: Community Leadership in Action with Jalena Johnson

One of Jalena’s most impactful volunteer roles is with the Helena Area Community Foundation (HACF). Her connection to the organization began through Opportunity Bank of Montana’s participation in Greater Helena Gives, a 24‑hour giving campaign that supports local nonprofit organizations throughout the Helena area, coming up on May 6–7.

Jalena officially joined the Helena Area Community Foundation Board in August 2024. She currently serves as Chair of the Events Committee and Secretary on the Executive Committee, where she helps guide fundraising efforts, support community initiatives, and advance the Foundation’s mission to enhance the quality of life in the Helena area.

Jalena credits her role at Opportunity Bank of Montana with opening the door to many of her volunteer opportunities.

“My position at the Bank has exposed me to a wide variety of community members and organizations,” she explained. “That exposure has helped me identify where my time can make the biggest impact.”

Over the years, Jalena has volunteered in a variety of ways, including wrapping gifts for children through Intermountain with Leadership Helena and spearheading a fundraiser with CASA to collect suitcases for children transitioning into foster care.

“These opportunities wouldn’t have been as accessible without the support of the Bank,” she shared. “Having an employer that actively encourages community involvement truly makes a difference.”

Jalena’s commitment to volunteerism began early. While growing up in Spokane, she spent evenings and weekends supporting a community hospital through a nonprofit organization that provided critical resources to nursing mothers in need.

“That experience really shaped my perspective,” Jalena said. “It showed me how much impact consistent volunteer work can have.”

After moving to Helena, Jalena remained actively engaged in her community by serving on young professional boards and continuing to seek meaningful ways to give back where she lives and works.

“I’ve always had a passion for giving back,” she added. “Being involved in the community has always been important to me, no matter where I’ve lived.”

Jalena’s dedication to leadership and community service has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, she was honored with a Helena Chamber of Commerce 20 Under 40 Award, recognizing young professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, career achievement, and community involvement. In 2023, she was named Woman of the Year by the local chapter of the American Business Women’s Association, an award that reflects her commitment to empowering others and leading with integrity.

For coworkers and community members interested in volunteering, Jalena encourages starting locally and following what feels meaningful.

“I recommend beginning with your local chamber or community foundation to see which organizations are looking for support,” she said. “Pick something you’re passionate about and think about the unique skills you can bring. Don’t be afraid to attend board meetings or test the waters before fully committing.”

What Jalena appreciates most about giving back in Helena is the wide range of opportunities available.

“There are approximately 811 nonprofit organizations in the Helena area,” she noted. “It’s almost guaranteed that anyone can find a cause they’re passionate about.”

She also sees firsthand how community involvement positively reflects on her team.

“One of the most consistent pieces of feedback I hear from community members is how generous our Helena team is with volunteering their time,” Jalena shared. “That really speaks volumes.”

Through her professional role and volunteer leadership, Jalena Johnson exemplifies Opportunity Bank of Montana’s commitment to strengthening communities, showing that meaningful impact starts with showing up, getting involved, and giving back.