The Montana Public Interest Research Group
(MontPIRG) is a student-run non-profit group whose aim is
to teach students how to become effective citizens while making
a difference on important issues. Since 1982,
we have worked for a clean and healthful environment, strong
consumer protection, and an open and accountable government.
We are the largest, most active group on campus. Through
our campus chapter, we offer University of Montana students
the chance to learn real world civic and leadership skills
needed to effect social change outside of the classroom.
The Last Best Place
Montana is home to pristine rivers and streams, wide open
spaces, abundant wildlife, and big blue skies. Our government
is open and citizens have the power to pass their own laws.
It truly is the last best place.
But Montana is also home to the nation's largest toxic waste
site and power plants that produce tons of global warming
pollution. Our government is increasingly responsive
only to wealthy special interests and campaign contributors.
Much of what we hold dear is at risk.
For nearly twenty years, MontPIRG has worked as an advocate
for the public interest. When consumers are cheated,
or our natural environment is threatened, or the voices of
ordinary citizens are drowned out by special interest lobbyists,
MontPIRG speaks up and takes action. We uncover threats
to public health and well-being and fight to end them, using
the time-tested tools of investigative research, media exposés,
grassroots organizing, advocacy and litigation. MontPIRG's
mission is to deliver persistent, result-oriented public interest
activism that protects our environment, encourages a fair,
sustainable economy, and fosters responsive, democratic government.
To find out more about what we've done, see our
recent accomplishments , our weekly
updates , or visit our campaign
page . You can also visit MontPIRG's
state-wide page .
"Apathy, the end is near for you!"
The fight for the public interest needs student support.
Whether through membership or taking part in a MontPIRG campaign,
you play can play an important role in helping out.
Find out more here.
MontPIRG offers
opportunities to get involved and make an impact on today’s
important issues. Students
and professionals work together to train the next generation
of student activists and effect social change in a campaign
oriented environment. Student involvement ranges from
simply supporting MontPIRG through membership to planning
and running one of MontPIRG's campaigns as an intern
or board member.
Membership
We are able to organize at UM because students pledge to support
MontPIRG with a $3 per semester voluntary fee which appears
on the student's tuition bill each semester. Student
membership allows us to hire experts to work with us on the
issues so we can make an impact locally, statewide, and even
nationally. Membership is the best way students can
support us, even if they don't have time to get involved.
To become a student member stop by a MontPIRG table in the
UC, our office in 360 Corbin Hall,
or get in touch with us.
Contact us
If you have any questions, concerns, or want to get involved,
get in touch with us! Contact
information here.
