Honoring family through the gift of education Education was a passion Helen E. Schaefer never hesitated to share. For 40 years, Helen poured her love of learning and music into lessons for children at Madison and Hutton grade schools in Spokane. As a first-generation college student, Helen knew the power of educational success firsthand and …
During a pandemic, much of the focus shifts to cities with denser populations, but smaller communities also suffer in ways that are unique from their larger counterparts. During a national food shortage, food access can be especially tenuous in remote locations. With a population of just 94, White Bird, Idaho is one of dozens of …
The stress and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic has left many in need of mental health support. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Far North seeks to raise awareness about mental health needs and to support those in Bonner and Boundary counties who find their lives disrupted by mental health challenges. A $5,000 grant …
NAMI Far North: Addressing the Mental Health Crisis Read More »
As the first person in his extended family to earn a college degree, Mark Burkett knows firsthand the difference higher education can make in one’s life. Thanks to a scholarship, Mark was able to attend the University of Pacific, where he earned a degree in electrical engineering. Now retired after a successful 26-year career in …
Couple creates scholarship fund for high-achieving students with financial need Read More »
Howard W. Wildin II believed education improved lives. So when he asked in his will that the local Newport-Priest River Rotary Club use a portion of his estate to better his community through education, his fellow Rotarians turned to Innovia Foundation to help make it happen. In 2017, with Howard’s gift, the club established an …
Newport-Priest River Rotary funds benefit education Read More »
The Music Conservatory of Sandpoint understands how significant music is to community and youth development. “Being successful in learning music can provide a foundation for success in a student’s other endeavors, both personal and academic,” said Karin Wedemeyer, executive director of the conservatory. A $13,500 Equinox Foundation grant from Innovia Foundation aided the conservatory in …
Sandpoint conservatory offers after-school music programs to students Read More »
A 2017 summer camp held by Kaniksu Land Trust (KLT) allowed disadvantaged children to play in forests and wetlands, climb trees, build shelters and have other adventures in nature. KLT’s outdoor educator Dave reluctantly told the kids that the 75 acres they were playing on would be sold that September. Many of the kids wanted …
Kaniksu Land Trust plans 160-acre community forest Read More »
Thousands of Bonner County residents and visitors visit Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille river to swim and fish. The lake and river also provide a source of clean water for drinking and irrigation. But the water does not stay clean on its own, especially due to water pollutants such as pesticides, wastewater and …
Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper keeps local waters swimmable, fishable and drinkable Read More »
In 2008, nearly half of children entering kindergarten in Sandpoint, Idaho, tested below proficiency for learning readiness. This was due largely to the fact that many families in the rural and underserved area don’t have access to affordable preschool. Recognizing the critical need, the Panhandle Alliance for Education (PAFE) — a nonprofit organization that supports …
Panhandle Alliance for Education supports kindergarten learning readiness Read More »
With over 19,000 miles of hiking trails, the beautiful state of Idaho is a playground for outdoor adventurers from around the U.S. and the world. The Idaho Trails Association (ITA) is a nonprofit organization that works with volunteers to care for these trails and keep them accessible and enjoyable for hikers of all ages. The …
Idaho Trails Association maintains the beauty of North Idaho Read More »
