When Dawn Merha moved to Sandpoint, Idaho in 1994, she came to open a Veterinarian hospital with her husband. She loved it here and planned to raise her family in relative peace. But years later, an unexpected crisis within her own family would change the course of her life. Dawn’s son was a 19-year-old hockey player when he experienced a sudden and severe psychotic break while living in Canada. Like many families who end up dealing with mental illness, Dawn and her husband didn’t immediately recognize what was happening. “We didn’t have the knowledge or the resources to navigate it,” Dawn says. “It was terrifying. And it took too long to get him the help he needed.” That delay in treatment had long-lasting effects on her son’s recovery. But in the process, Dawn and her family were introduced to NAMI—the National Alliance on Mental Illness —and its local support groups. It gave them something they desperately needed: community, tools, and hope. She got involved, and eventually became the president of NAMI Far North , which serves both Bonner and Boundary Counties. Through her work with NAMI, Dawn began to see an even deeper gap in the mental health system—one that potentially affects thousands of people in the region. While people living with serious mental illness might eventually get medication or therapy, there were no services focused on helping them actually rebuild their lives. From Crisis to Advocacy “One in twenty people live with a serious mental illness that affects their ability to work, live independently, or maintain relationships,” she says. “And yet once they’re discharged or stabilized, they’re often just left to figure out the rest on their own.” That realization led to the founding of Sand Creek Connections , Idaho’s first mental health clubhouse, which opened in November 2024. Based on a successful global model used in over 400 communities, the clubhouse is a non-clinical, community-run space where adults living with mental illness can connect with others, find purpose, and regain the confidence to move forward. It’s not a treatment center or therapy clinic. Members don’t have to meet a formal diagnosis to join, and membership is free and lifelong. The only requirement is a mental health challenge that’s impacting their life—and a desire to be connected with others. Rebuilding Lives Beyond Treatment Inside the clubhouse, members help run the space themselves. From preparing lunch and managing bills to organizing social events and learning new skills, everything is done collaboratively, without a hierarchy between staff and members. Some are working toward rejoining the workforce, while others are simply looking for routine, connection, or a safe place to spend their day. “We try to model what life looks like outside these walls,” Dawn says. “You work during the day, you contribute to something, and then you have community and recreation. It’s simple, but incredibly powerful.” For Dawn, this work is personal. “We were the clubhouse for our kid. We didn’t have the training or structure, but we did the best we could. Had something like this existed back then, who knows how different things might have been.” The need is clear. In Bonner and Boundary Counties alone, up to 3,000 people may be living with mental illness. As the first of its kind in Idaho, Sand Creek Connections is just scratching the surface. The biggest hurdle now is sustainability. Because Idaho doesn’t currently allow Medicaid reimbursement for clubhouse programs—despite there being a Medicaid code for it nationally—Sand Creek Connections relies entirely on grants and donations. A Call for Support and Sustainability “Funding is the hardest part,” Dawn says. “If you break a leg, you get a cast and rehab. But if you injure your brain, you might get medication and then nothing. It’s maddening. It’s discriminatory.” That’s why she’s hoping to rally more community support—not just for funding, but for volunteers, board members, and professional advisors who want to make a difference. NAMI Far North is currently seeking a new treasurer for its board, as well as additional members with backgrounds in finance, advocacy, or mental health. The clubhouse also welcomes volunteers during the day and advisors from all fields—art, computers, music, food service—anything that can offer members purpose, skills, and inspiration. Support group leaders for families are also needed, and training is provided. This fall, the community will have a chance to come together for NAMIWalks, a major fundraising and awareness event happening Saturday, October 4 at Matchwood Brewing. There will be speakers, resource tables, and a community walk, all part of a week of mental health events that includes guest speakers, panels, and collaborations with local businesses and organizations. “There are so many people in our community who need a place to go during the day, to connect, to feel useful. That’s what Sand Creek Connections is. And I’m proud of what we’ve built.”

What do a sturgeon-nosed canoe, a traditional Chinese bracelet, and 1930s timber equipment have in common? They’re all part of the living story of Bonner County — one told, preserved, and celebrated by the Bonner County Historical Society and Museum. Hannah Combs, a former costume designer and the museum’s executive director and curator, sat down with us to share how the museum celebrates and preserves our community’s rich history for everyone to enjoy. Originally from Ohio, Hannah studied costume design and worked in theater before a visit to Sandpoint changed everything. “I thought I’d end up in a big city,” she says. “Instead, I found myself here — and it just felt like home.” Hannah made the move to Sandpoint and found a natural fit in a role at the Pend Oreille Arts Council. Although the transition to becoming Bonner County Museum’s head curator might not seem obvious at first, it was a perfect match for Hannah. Costume design requires detailed historical research, a skill directly applicable to museum work. Now, more than five years into her tenure, Hannah brings the same creativity she once used on stage to the museum’s exhibits, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives. As she puts it, “Costumes were always about storytelling — and history is the best story there is.” While often considered a Sandpoint institution, the museum’s mission covers all of Bonner County. In fact, it was originally founded with board members and contributions from every corner of the region. “That’s something we’re really working to revive,” Hannah explains. “We want to reconnect with places like Priest River, Clark Fork, Hope, and beyond. The history here belongs to all of us — not just one town.” That’s why this summer’s big event, the Pioneer Picnic, will be as much about bringing people together as it is about celebrating the past. Back in 1923, locals gathered to celebrate the rediscovery of the Kullyspell House chimney stones, remnants of the first permanent building in what is now Idaho. That first picnic brought people together to honor the past and share in community pride — and the museum is bringing that spirit back this July. The picnic will take place Sunday, July 20 from 1 to 4 p.m. in Lakeview Park and will feature old-fashioned carnival games like ring toss, watermelon seed spitting, and tug-of-war, as well as hand-churned ice cream, a pioneer kids’ station with grain grinding and butter churning, and tours of the historic cabin and museum. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket and dress in pioneer attire, if they feel inspired. Yes, Hannah plans to be in costume herself. The event also represents a renewed effort to bring all of Bonner County back into the museum's orbit. “Over the years, the society’s focus has become more centered around Sandpoint, but we’re working hard to bring in the outlying communities again,” says Hannah. To that end, local granges, civic groups, and town representatives will host each carnival booth, each sharing stories from their area. Admission to Pioneer Picnic is free but attendees are encouraged to become members of the Bonner County Historical Society if they aren’t already. Membership includes free museum admission year-round, discounts on research services and photo orders, and a monthly newsletter. The museum itself is far more than meets the eye. Though only 15% of the collection is on display at any time, behind-the-scenes efforts include rotating temporary exhibits, digitizing archives, and offering custom education experiences. Teachers can arrange field trips tailored to niche topics like architecture or photography, and homeschoolers can check out “Traveling Trunks” — hands-on learning kits filled with curated activities and materials. The museum also regularly puts out calls for specific artifacts, like missing yearbooks or rare publications, and is always open to temporary loans for exhibits, even if donors want to keep the object in the family. “Most people are honored when we ask,” says Hannah. “It’s pretty cool to have your family’s story told in the museum — even if just for a little while.” Volunteers are a critical part of the process, with around 60 currently helping with events, education, and collections. “You don’t need to be a historian to get involved — just someone who cares about our stories,” says Hannah. And there are plenty of stories to explore. Visitors are often stunned by the quality of the exhibits and the sheer depth of content packed into the small space. “We’ve had people from New York City say this is the best small museum they’ve ever visited,” says Hannah. “It’s artistic, immersive, and every corner tells a story.” If it’s been a while since you’ve stopped in — or you’ve never visited — maybe the Pioneer Picnic will be your gateway. But don’t wait for a special event to explore the museum. With rotating exhibits, hands-on history experiences, and a collection that’s far more expansive than most realize, there’s always something new to discover. Stop in, bring a friend or out-of-town guest, and connect with the stories that have shaped Bonner County. “What I love most,” says Hannah, “is that the more I learn about the history here, the more I feel like I belong. And I think that’s something everyone can take away from this place.”

Prepare Thyself for Merriment If you’ve never attended a Renaissance faire, your imagination might go straight to knights, jesters, and oversized turkey legs—and that’s not wrong. But for the people behind the Sandpoint Renaissance Faire , it’s about something much deeper: community, creativity, and connection. Tanya Anderson, one of the founding organizers (and Queen Elizabeth I herself at the event), brings to life the rich heart and history of the faire—and shows us why it’s become a most beloved local tradition in northern Idaho. The Sandpoint Renaissance Faire began as an inspired conversation in 2016 after faire director Anita Pew attended a local Comic-Con and had a lightbulb moment: why not a Renaissance faire? By the next year, that idea had turned into a full event at the Woods Rock Quarry with 1,500 attendees. It’s grown every year since, now held at the Bonner County Fairgrounds, drawing over 6,000 people annually and becoming a cornerstone of the community calendar. One of the most unique things about the Sandpoint Ren Faire is its welcoming, inclusive spirit. “You’ll see families where half are in full costume and half aren’t,” Tanya says. “It’s about comfort and self-expression. Some want to immerse fully in costume, others want to enjoy the atmosphere in shorts and t-shirts. And all are welcome.” This ethos goes beyond clothing—it’s about creating a sensory, all-ages experience. You smell the roasting turkey legs, hear the music and metal clinking of chainmail, see the vibrant costumes and artisan booths, touch handmade crafts and silks, and feel the joyful immersion in another world. While historically themed, the faire embraces fantasy and beyond. “We get elves, mermaids, fairies, mushrooms, pirates—something for everyone,” explains Tanya. Entertainment, Vendors, and Atmosphere Expect music, dancing, jousting, and surprises at every turn. Entertainment includes minstrels, court jesters, belly dancers, fire performers, aerial acts, and comedic troupes like Zoupa De Zonia. The Seattle Knights, a professional jousting team, perform twice daily in the Royal Arena. Appearances by Queen Elizabeth I and her royal court are a central tradition. The joust, Tanya says, is her favorite part: “It’s high-energy, theatrical, and the bond between horse and rider is incredible to witness.” Her Majesty’s court hands out Queen’s Favors—small silk banners—to children, who wave them during the jousts. Some children are even knighted by the queen herself, especially those who’ve helped with volunteer work. “We want to show them how rewarding it is to give back,” Tanya says. Artisans and vendors must decorate their booths to contribute to the immersive experience, and applications are reviewed and limited each year to preserve quality. “We try to stick with the theme—leatherworking, metalsmithing, handmade jewelry, and costumes,” Tanya explains. “We do put a cap on vendor numbers to keep quality high and the layout manageable, so applications need to come in early.” A Faire With a Purpose What sets the Sandpoint Ren Faire apart isn’t just the fun—it’s the values behind it. Mental health and community support are core priorities. The faire’s ale house is run entirely by the local VFW Vietnam Veterans chapter. All alcohol sales go directly to supporting veterans with PTSD. Each board member chooses a nonprofit to support, with 1% of gross proceeds distributed across their selections. Past recipients include Bonner County Food Bank, Helping Hands Healing Hearts, the Music Conservatory, Panida Theater, and Sandpoint Christian school. “There’s no single direction we give to—each board member supports a cause close to them,” Tanya says. “That diversity reflects our community.” The faire runs for just two days—Saturday and Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM, on the last weekend in June. Volunteers are always needed and welcome. Visit the website , let them know your skills, and they’ll find a place for you. For the Love of the Faire When asked about her favorite part of the experience, Tanya doesn’t hesitate. It’s the kids. “The look in a child’s eyes when they’re fully immersed in the moment, talking to the queen, being knighted—it just fills you up. That’s what it’s all about,” she gushes. Whether you’re drawn in by the sword fights, the songs, or the chance to meet Queen Elizabeth herself—there’s something for everyone at the Sandpoint Renaissance Faire. And that’s by design. 

From war zones to boardrooms, Aaron Guyett’s story isn’t about success—it’s about surrender. After surviving Iraq and losing everything in the 2008 crash, Aaron found peace not through control, but through Christ. Today, he’s building Leaders of Leaders: a movement to develop disciples who lead with purpose, prioritize what matters, and live what they believe. Whether it’s a rodeo camp or a men’s retreat, Aaron starts and ends with Jesus—and equips others to do the same.

What if education wasn’t just about performance and conformity, but about nurturing the whole child? In this heartfelt interview with the team at Sandpoint Waldorf School, we explore how Waldorf education brings learning to life through story, art, movement, and deep connection. From mud kitchens to mythology, it’s an approach where childhood is honored, and wonder is essential.

What began as one couple’s response to a personal cancer journey has become a lifeline for hundreds. Cancer Can't, founded in memory of Jonathan Van Keulen and now led by his wife Becky, is redefining cancer support—especially in underserved and rural communities. From a volunteer transportation network to emergency grants and plans for patient lodging, this Spokane-based nonprofit is powered by compassion, community, and the belief that no one should face cancer alone.

The Festival at Sandpoint may be best known for its two-week summer concert series, but behind the scenes, a small nonprofit team is working year-round to make a much bigger impact. From arts education and youth scholarships to a bold vision for a permanent venue, this North Idaho gem is all about building community through music. Learn how you can get involved—from volunteering to bidding in their annual auction, now live!

101 Women: How a Simple Idea Creates Big Impact in Sandpoint Many community challenges call for creative solutions. Some require innovative thinking, while others come down to basic needs—money, people, or space. 101 Women is a straightforward response to the universal need nonprofits face: funding. But beyond raising cash, it also fosters networking and empowers women. President Vicki Reich and founding member Becca Orchard each discovered 101 Women in their own way and at different times. Yet both speak to the strength of a clear mission—and the remarkable impact that happens when women from all walks of life come together for a common good. Becca, with a background in corporate America and a history of nonprofit involvement, particularly with homeless youth in Atlanta, moved to Sandpoint in 2009. While exploring her place in the new community, she connected with the Sandpoint Community Resource Center (now the Envision Center) and played a key role in our strategic planning. It was through this work that Becca connected with Jennnifer Macdonald, the visionary behind 101 Women. (Other founding members include: Kelli West, Angie Dail, Kathy Converse, and Nancy Dooley.) Inspired by a similar model in Colorado, Jennifer envisioned a collective of women pooling their resources to support local nonprofits. Becca's experience made her the perfect partner to help structure this idea. "She had this idea and needed someone to help guide it," Becca explains. "She invited me to a meeting—promised it would be just two meetings a year and super easy. So of course I said okay." Vicki, whose career was primarily in the natural foods industry, moved to Sandpoint in 2007. After managing a local online food co-op and working at Winter Ridge, she learned about 101 Women from a friend. Intrigued by the simplicity and potential impact, she attended a meeting and was immediately drawn in. "I went to the first meeting and was blown away by how simple and powerful the concept was—how 101 women could come together to make a huge impact on local nonprofits," Vicki shares. The Power of Simplicity: The 101 Women Model So, what exactlyis 101 Women? In their own words, it's brilliantly simple: gather 101 women who are passionate about supporting their community. Each member contributes $225 annually, creating a substantial pool of funds that can make a real difference to local nonprofits. Becca's experience in the nonprofit world exposed a crucial needs gap: while smaller donations were relatively common, securing larger amounts for significant projects was a challenge. 101 Women aimed to fill that void, with a minimum grant amount of $10,000. "My experience as a nonprofit was that it was pretty easy to get a $500 or $1,000 check—but no one was handing out $10,000. And a lot of nonprofits, especially newer ones, have costly projects that need real support," she explains. Initially focused on specific projects, 101 Women evolved to recognize the often-overlooked need for operating expenses, particularly staffing. "Over time, we discovered that nonprofits often need help with operating expenses—the unglamorous stuff," Becca notes. "People love donating to events or buying things, but it’s staff—people—who are the real need, and it’s the least often funded." Beyond the financial impact, 101 Women fosters a strong sense of community. The meetings provide a valuable space for socializing and connection, allowing members to meet like-minded, passionate women. A Window into Community Needs One of the most significant benefits for members is the insight they gain into the diverse range of nonprofit activities within Bonner County. "I think one of the things that I hear often is that the women love being a part of it because they learn so much about their community," Vicki emphasizes. Initially open to all nonprofit sectors, 101 Women recognized the challenge of comparing vastly different causes. "We realized that when somebody who wanted to buy bikes for kids was going up against the food bank who needed food to feed people—it just was never a fair fight," Becca explains. To ensure a more equitable process, they now operate on a bi-annual grant cycle, alternating between "basic needs" (food, housing, health) and "environment, education, and other causes." Busting the Myth: Joining 101 Women Despite the name, 101 Women isn't a closed or exclusive group. "One of the myths I would like to dispel is that it's a closed group—that it's hard to get into. It isn't," Becca explains. While there is a waitlist, it's primarily to ensure that new members joining mid-cycle have the opportunity to participate in the voting process. New member registration opens every spring, around June 1st. Due to natural turnover, there are always openings, and the organization rarely exceeds 101 members. "We always seem to be pushing right to the edge to get 101 women," Vicki adds. "We don’t often get a ton more than 101. Sometimes we’re a little below, sometimes a little above, but over the years it averages out." The simple requirements? Being a woman and paying the $225 annual fee. All that’s required is that you’re a woman and that you’re 18. That's it. Maintaining Simplicity, Maximizing Impact While there have been discussions about expanding into networking events or youth initiatives, 101 Women has consciously maintained its focus on its core mission: simple collective giving. 101 Women has supported a wide array of vital organizations in Bonner County, addressing diverse needs. "The power of 101 Women is its simplicity," Vicki emphasizes. "We’ve given away over $170,000, so accountability matters. But we’re still entirely volunteer-run," Becca points out. “On May 22nd we will give away another $10,000.” Inspired to Make a Difference? "This experience has taught me that small efforts can snowball into powerful change," Becca reflects. "This started from one person’s idea and a few people putting in some work—and now it’s something powerful." Vicki echoes this sentiment: "Sometimes we hesitate to start something because we think it has to be big. It doesn’t. Just take the first step." If you're a woman in the Sandpoint area looking for a meaningful way to support your community, registration for 101 Women opens on June 15th. You can find more information and past annual reports on their website: 101womensandpoint.com .

The Sandpoint Lions Club has been making a profound impact on the community for decades, hosting beloved events like the Fourth of July fireworks and the Easter egg hunt, while supporting programs such as Toys for Tots and eyeglass assistance. At the heart of it all is Janice Raider, a longtime volunteer whose personal journey from receiving help to leading the club shows the true spirit of service. As the Lions Club evolves to include new voices, fresh ideas, and a growing youth Leo Club, they continue to welcome volunteers who want to make a difference — one smile, one connection, and one act of kindness at a time.