Mr. Dick Fellows is Awarded the Karas Award
Mr. Dick Fellows is Awarded the Karas Award
Dick embodies the very spirit of service and dedication that this award seeks to recognize. His contributions to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carbon and Yellowstone Counties, as well as his steadfast leadership and service to Beartooth Billings Clinic and its Foundation, have had an immeasurable impact on the community. His generosity, leadership, and selflessness truly set him apart as a transformational figure.
Dick has been an invaluable asset to Beartooth Billings Clinic and its Foundation. He joined the Foundation Board in 2009, serving as Board President and playing a crucial role in establishing committee charters for each of the Foundation Committees. His deep knowledge of estate planning greatly benefited the organization, helping to develop its planned giving program. Even after formally stepping down from the Board in 2021, he remained deeply involved, leading the Joint Investment Committee for both Boards. His commitment and expertise led to his return to the Foundation Board in 2024, where he continues to provide critical leadership and insight.
The impact of Dick’s mentorship, wisdom, and generosity is echoed by those who have had the privilege of working alongside him. Brian Dennis, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs, described Dick as someone who has gone above and beyond all expectations, calling him a “legendary leader” whose influence has changed the trajectory of the organization and the lives of countless children. Abby Lotz, CEO of Beartooth Billings Clinic, spoke of Dick’s steady and calming presence, his keen analytical mind, and his boundless dedication to the organization. She affectionately refers to him as the “hardest-working, lowest-paid” person at Beartooth, a testament to his selfless commitment. Likewise, Linda Harris, CFO of Beartooth Billings Clinic and Executive Director of its Foundation, highlighted Dick’s extensive contributions to financial planning and governance, noting his generosity, humor, and kindness as defining traits.
His impact is immeasurable, and his dedication serves as a guiding light for all who have had the privilege of working alongside him. As Sarah Ewald, Governing Board President, so eloquently stated, he is truly a man for the ages, a model for all to follow, and someone whose remarkable qualities we may never see again in our lifetime.
In addition to serving Beartooth Billings Clinic, Dick served his community in other ways. Dick’s legacy of service began in the early 1980s when he first volunteered at the Boys & Girls Club in Billings as part of the Optimist Club, helping to improve the music room at the old downtown Clubhouse. That initial act of service was just the beginning of what would become decades of unwavering dedication. Since that time, Dick has played an instrumental role in guiding the organization through critical transitions, ensuring that children and families continued to have access to vital resources. His leadership helped stabilize the Yellowstone County Club during a period of inconsistent leadership following the founding Executive Director’s retirement in 1996.
Dick’s vision and ability to rally support have been nothing short of extraordinary. He played a key role in leading the Yellowstone County Club Endowment’s “Campaign for Youth,” which successfully raised nearly six million dollars. Additionally, he was instrumental in securing over $400,000 for the final portion of the Carbon County Club’s 2012 renovation costs while also ensuring the sustainability of daily operations. More recently, Dick has spearheaded efforts to create Montana’s first long-term Boys & Girls Club partnership, streamlining operations and maximizing impact for both Carbon and Yellowstone County Clubs.
Dick Fellows exemplifies the spirit of Dr. Benjamin Karas through his extraordinary dedication to service. He has given his time, energy, and expertise without hesitation, ensuring the success and longevity of the organizations he serves. His leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to his community make him an outstanding candidate for the Karas Award. We strongly urge the committee to recognize this remarkable individual for his lifetime of service and profound impact on Red Lodge and beyond.