The Sweet Power of Support: How a Simple Gesture Can Make a Big Difference in Education and Community

By Linda Moran, Branch Manager and Financial Advisor at D.A. Davidson

A cookie is a small thing, but its impact can be mighty. As simple as it sounds, I believe that a cookie can brighten someone’s day, uplift their spirit, and bring a sense of belonging. It’s a small act, but sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest difference—especially in our schools.

“I’ve been lucky to call Great Falls, Montana, home for my entire life. Raised here, I chose to stay in this tight-knit community because I love what it represents: a place where people genuinely care about each other, and where kids have the opportunity to succeed, both inside the classroom and on the field.”

As the branch manager and a financial advisor at D.A. Davidson, I’ve been in my role for 28 years, but it’s the connections I’ve built with my community that have truly shaped who I am. One of the things I value most is the sense of camaraderie fostered by high school sports. It’s a tradition here in Great Falls, and for me, it’s one of the many ways our public schools give back to the community.

The Power of Cookies and Encouragement

Several years ago, I found myself in a challenging season of life. My son had gone off to college, my father had passed away, and my husband was traveling frequently for work. I was looking for something meaningful to do, something that would allow me to stay connected to the community and support the next generation of students. That’s when I had an idea—a small gesture that might make a big difference.

I called Coach Johnson, the high school football coach at the time, and asked if anyone was bringing cookies to practice. His response? “No.” And then I asked if I could start bringing them. He laughed, but he said yes.

At first, the tradition in Great Falls was to give cookies after the game, but there was a catch: if the team lost, no cookies. I wanted to change that. I felt that the kids should know that someone was cheering them on no matter the outcome, whether they won or lost. That’s how the tradition of pre-game cookies was born.

For me, it’s not about trying to influence the coaches or players—it’s about showing up. It’s about offering a little support in the form of something as simple as a homemade cookie.

“When I walk into the locker room and see those kids’ faces light up, I know I’ve made a difference.”

And honestly, it’s not just about the cookies—it’s about the encouragement, the appreciation, and the message that what they do matters. Every player deserves to know that someone believes in them, regardless of the score.

Sports and Life Lessons: More Than Just Games

As someone who works in a high-pressure job, I can tell you that baking cookies has been a surprisingly fun and therapeutic outlet for me. It’s a break from the stress and a reminder that small, positive moments can be deeply fulfilling. And when those athletes look forward to my weekly visit, it’s a reminder that they appreciate the little things in life too.

But beyond the cookies, sports have a powerful impact on young people. Through sports, students learn about teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—skills they’ll carry with them long after graduation. At Great Falls Public Schools, no one gets cut from the football team. Anyone willing to put in the effort has a place on the team, which sends an important message: everyone deserves the chance to belong.

These life lessons are just as valuable as the academic education these students receive. And, for many, sports are a pathway to greater opportunities. In some cases, sports have opened doors for kids to receive college scholarships—giving them access to education that might have been out of reach otherwise.

I’ve seen firsthand how a high school athlete’s journey can lead them to higher education and, ultimately, to becoming a productive citizen. This is one of the reasons why supporting extracurricular activities like sports is so important—they not only enrich students’ lives but also strengthen the fabric of our community.

How We Can All Make a Difference

What I’ve learned through my involvement in high school sports—and through my role in our local schools—is that anyone can make a difference.

Whether it’s through baking cookies, volunteering as a coach, or simply offering encouragement, there is always room for people to step in and help. Our public schools are open to everyone who wants to make things better, and there is no act too small to matter.

“The students who benefit from extracurricular programs, like sports, music, and drama, are better prepared to take on the challenges of life. And as a community, we’re fortunate that our schools still offer these opportunities, even when other districts have had to cut them.”

I remember one year, a football player came up to me and said, “I’ve been waiting for these cookies for years!” I was thrilled to know that something as simple as a cookie could mean so much to a student. And I know it’s not just the cookies they look forward to—it’s the support and connection.

As we continue to advocate for education and ensure that all students have the opportunities they need to succeed, let’s remember that it’s the small things—those acts of kindness and encouragement—that help make the biggest difference in a young person’s life.

So, the next time you’re looking for a way to support your community or your school, consider what small gesture you can offer. Whether it’s bringing cookies to a practice, volunteering at an event, or simply cheering someone on, know that it matters. And together, we can continue to build stronger schools, stronger communities, and brighter futures for all of our students.

Linda Moran is the Branch Manager and Financial Advisor at D.A. Davidson in Great Falls, Montana. She has been serving her community for 28 years and is passionate about supporting education, local schools, and the students who make up the heart of her community.