Panelists urge Missoula to 'open the door': small acts of welcome more important than new programs

When asked what Missoula could do better to welcome newcomers, panelists at the Stories of Home event repeatedly urged the community to continue what they called simple, practical hospitality rather than large new programs.

"Open the door for everyone," one panelist said, summing up a recurring theme across speakers who praised local volunteers, hosting families and nonprofit services. Panelists credited Softlanding Missoula with helping families find housing, community connections and practical help, naming volunteers such as Sally, Richard, Melissa and others who provided early support.

Speakers emphasized language help, driving assistance and shared cultural activities—cooking, dance and sports—as the most useful forms of outreach. One panelist said the community already has "every single thing to help an immigrant" and asked only that residents keep the welcome and small acts of service going.

Organizers framed the conversation as both a celebration and a reminder: preserving everyday channels of help sustains newcomers’ ability to build stable lives in Missoula.