Bringing Back Inspiration from Big Sky: Our Experience at the Montana Summer Institute

Earlier this summer, Brooke Drozdowicz (TTC’s Horizons Coordinator) and I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Montana Summer Institute in Big Sky, Montana. Set against a backdrop of mountains and rivers, this experience was both inspiring and energizing — and we’re excited to share what we learned with our community.

At the heart of the conference was the Positive Community Norms (PCN) framework, a powerful approach that shifts focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right. Instead of concentrating on negative behaviors or outcomes, PCN emphasizes the positive norms that already exist in communities — and how highlighting those can help bring out the best in everyone.

During our time at the Institute, we heard directly from Jeff Linkenbach, who developed the PCN framework, along with community leaders who shared how they’ve applied these principles and the positive changes they’ve seen in their communities as a result. We also gained valuable insights from experts who presented data on the impact of this approach and how it can support healthier, safer communities.

In addition to the speakers and workshops, we had the chance to connect with a wide range of participants — from educators and law enforcement, to traffic safety advocates and fellow nonprofit professionals. The opportunity to exchange ideas and strategies with people who are equally committed to strengthening their communities was truly rewarding and inspiring.

Interestingly, our time in Big Sky provided a perfect, real-world example of the PCN mindset. Before heading out on hikes, we were repeatedly reminded to carry bear spray, stay in groups, make noise, and be on alert for unpredictable grizzlies. While these precautions are important, we soon realized that the reality is bear attacks are very rare. The community encourages preparation and awareness, but the norm — the typical, positive reality — is that hikers explore these wild places safely every day.

This mirrors the PCN framework: when we focus on and promote the positive behaviors that are already the norm (safe hiking practices, respectful coexistence with wildlife), we reinforce and grow those strengths rather than letting fear of rare negative outcomes take center stage. 

Our trip to Big Sky was also filled with adventure! We made time to make a quick trip to Yellowstone, explore many local hiking trails, and even go white water rafting — an unforgettable way to experience Montana’s wild beauty!  And we did it all safely and without a single grizzly encounter!  

We left Big Sky feeling motivated and hopeful, with new tools and ideas to support the youth and families of the Tri-Town community. We’re excited to explore how Positive Community Norms can further strengthen our work at TTC — and we look forward to sharing more with you in the months ahead!