More Alike Than Different: A Conversation About Belonging in North Idaho What does it mean to belong? It's a simple question, but one that sits at the heart of many of the challenges facing our communities today. Whether we're talking about seniors experiencing isolation, veterans navigating civilian life, young people searching for their place in the world, or families new to the area, the desire to feel seen, valued, and connected is something we all share. On a recent episode of A Little Birdie Told Me , host Lindsay Morgan sat down with Dr. Sarah Lynch, Executive Director of the North Idaho Pride Alliance (NIPA) , to discuss the organization's work and the role community plays in helping people thrive. Founded on a vision of creating a North Idaho where LGBTQ+ individuals can connect, belong, and be empowered to thrive, NIPA works year-round through education, advocacy, and networking opportunities. While many people associate Pride organizations with a single annual event, Dr. Lynch shared that their work extends far beyond Pride Month. Through social gatherings, educational forums, community partnerships, and resource referrals, the organization seeks to reduce isolation and create opportunities for meaningful connection. One of the themes that surfaced repeatedly throughout the conversation was the impact of social isolation. North Idaho is a beautiful place to live, but its rural nature can make it difficult for people to find community, access resources, or connect with others who share similar experiences. Dr. Lynch described one of NIPA's greatest goals as creating spaces where people realize they are not alone. For many, simply finding a room full of people who understand their experiences can be life-changing. That idea resonates deeply with the work we see every day at the Community Resource EnVision Center. While the populations we serve may be different, the underlying need is often the same. People are looking for connection. They want to know where to turn for help. They want to feel welcomed, understood, and valued. Whether someone is seeking housing assistance, employment resources, healthcare navigation, or a supportive community, belonging matters. When asked what the greatest need facing the community is today, Dr. Lynch offered a simple but powerful answer: hope. Hope that people can find support. Hope that they can build meaningful relationships. Hope that they can become the best version of themselves in an environment that encourages them to thrive. Perhaps the most encouraging part of the conversation came when discussing this year's Pride in the Park event. What began ten years ago as a small gathering of approximately 150 people has grown into a major community event featuring more than 100 vendors and thousands of attendees. The growth reflects not only the work of one organization but the willingness of community members, businesses, volunteers, and local leaders to come together around the idea that everyone deserves to feel welcome. At the EnVision Center, we often say that stronger communities are built through connection. Conversations like this remind us that while people may come from different backgrounds and experiences, we often share many of the same hopes: to be seen, to belong, to contribute, and to thrive. Those are goals worth working toward together.

More Than a Show: How Honey Pearl Productions is Building Community Through the Arts What happens when a lifelong dream meets a community willing to embrace it? For Connie Kiehn, co-founder of Honey Pearl Productions , the answer has been something much bigger than theater. It's become a way to strengthen community, create opportunities for people to grow, and bring neighbors together through the shared experience of storytelling. Connie's journey to community theater wasn't exactly a straight line. As a child, she loved theater and dreamed of directing productions one day. But like many people, life took her in a different direction. She studied economics, served in the military, built a career, married, and started a family. When she and her husband moved to Sandpoint in 2022, she thought her theater days were largely behind her. Then came an audition for Legally Blonde. To her surprise, Connie landed the lead role of Elle Woods. Her husband, Stephen, was cast opposite her as Emmett Forrest. What began as a fun community experience quickly reignited a passion that had been waiting quietly in the wings for years. That experience ultimately led the couple to launch Honey Pearl Productions. Together, Connie's background in theater and Stephen's experience as an artist and graphic designer created a unique partnership. What started as a dream evolved into a shared family mission: using the performing arts to enrich lives and strengthen the community they now call home. Their first production, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe , was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. Soon followed Cheaper by the Dozen , and now Honey Pearl Productions is preparing for its first musical, 1776 , opening over the Fourth of July holiday. But the organization's impact extends far beyond the stage. Connie believes theater creates a rare environment where people from vastly different backgrounds, personalities, and skill sets work together toward a common goal. Actors, artists, musicians, builders, technicians, designers, introverts, extroverts, students, retirees, and first-time performers all find a place within a production. In a world where people often stay within their familiar circles, theater invites them to collaborate with individuals they might never otherwise meet. That experience can be transformative. Participants discover talents they didn't know they possessed. They build confidence. They learn leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Some even find themselves stepping into roles they never imagined for themselves. As Connie shared, one of their behind-the-scenes volunteers recently decided to audition for a stage role after previously insisting she would never perform in front of an audience. Perhaps most importantly, Honey Pearl Productions is committed to making participation accessible. The organization operates entirely through volunteers, and performers are not charged to participate. Their goal is to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent someone from experiencing the joy and personal growth that the performing arts can provide. This year's production of 1776 also marks a new chapter for the organization. On July 4th, Honey Pearl Productions will host a special dinner and performance event benefiting local veterans through Thin Line Community Support. The event combines live music, community gathering, and charitable giving before audiences enjoy the musical itself. Connie hopes it will become the first of many productions that intentionally give back to local causes. At the heart of it all is a belief that art has the power to bring people together. Whether through music, storytelling, costumes, set design, or performance, creative expression allows people to connect in meaningful ways. It creates space for confidence to grow, friendships to form, and community to flourish. At the Community Resource EnVision Center, we often talk about the importance of connection. Honey Pearl Productions is a wonderful reminder that some of those connections happen not in boardrooms or meeting halls, but under stage lights, behind the curtain, and through the shared experience of creating something beautiful together. Because sometimes the greatest impact isn't measured by the number of tickets sold. It's measured by the lives changed along the way. For tickets to the show visit 1776: Honey Pearl Productions

More Than Fish: Why Protecting Our Water Protects Our Community When most people hear the name Trout Unlimited, they assume it's an organization focused on fishing. And while fishing is certainly part of the story, a recent conversation with Cathy Gidley and Chip Corsi revealed something much broader: Trout Unlimited is really in the business of protecting one of our community's most valuable resources—clean water. Founded in 1959 by a group of anglers who wanted to protect trout habitat, Trout Unlimited has grown into a national conservation organization with more than 300,000 members and over 300 staff working across the country. Their mission is simple but impactful: bring people together to conserve, protect, and restore the cold-water fisheries and watersheds that future generations will depend on. In North Idaho, that mission is especially important. Although the five northern counties make up only a small portion of Idaho's landmass, they contain more than one-third of the state's surface water. From Lake Pend Oreille and the Kootenai River to the St. Joe and Moyie Rivers, our region is home to some of Idaho's most treasured waterways and fisheries. But protecting those resources isn't just about fish. As Cathy explained, water quality impacts all of us. The same healthy rivers and streams that support trout also provide recreation opportunities, drinking water, wildlife habitat, and economic benefits for our communities. As weather patterns shift and water becomes an increasingly valuable resource, conservation efforts today will have lasting impacts tomorrow. The organization's work spans everything from restoring streams and wetlands to removing barriers that prevent fish from migrating naturally. They partner with landowners, tribes, government agencies, businesses, and volunteers to improve habitat and strengthen watersheds across the region. One thing that stood out during the conversation was Trout Unlimited's commitment to collaboration. Whether they're working with private landowners to restore wetlands, helping improve fish passage at stream crossings, or participating in large-scale conservation agreements involving multiple states, tribes, and agencies, the organization believes lasting solutions happen when diverse groups come together around a shared goal. That philosophy should sound familiar. At the Community Resource EnVision Center, we often talk about the importance of collaboration in addressing community challenges. The same principle applies whether we're talking about affordable housing, transportation, workforce development, or environmental stewardship: the best solutions are rarely created in isolation. The conversation also highlighted a reality many North Idaho residents have noticed firsthand—our region is changing. Population growth, increased development, and changing weather patterns all create new pressures on our natural resources. At the same time, those challenges create opportunities to do things better, whether that's designing infrastructure that supports fish passage, educating homeowners about shoreline stewardship, or helping the next generation understand the value of healthy ecosystems. Perhaps the most encouraging takeaway was the reminder that conservation isn't reserved for scientists or avid anglers. It's something everyone can participate in. Whether it's planting native vegetation along a shoreline, supporting local restoration projects, teaching children about the outdoors, volunteering for a cleanup effort, or simply learning more about the waterways that surround us, each of us has a role to play in protecting the places we love. Because in the end, clean water isn't just a fisheries issue. It's a community issue. And ensuring that future generations can enjoy the rivers, lakes, and landscapes that define North Idaho is something worth working toward together. To learn more about Trout Unlimited's work in North Idaho, volunteer opportunities, or upcoming projects, visit northidahotu.org or tu.org . 

The Power of Showing Up: What Volunteerism Looks Like in Action What does a volunteer look like? For some, it's someone serving meals, mentoring youth, or helping at community events. For others, it's someone quietly making connections behind the scenes, bringing people together, and helping good ideas become reality. If you've spent any time volunteering in Bonner County, chances are you've crossed paths with Michele Murphree. Recently recognized as Volunteer of the Month by the Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, Michele has spent the last 25 years investing her time, energy, and heart into the community she now calls home. Yet if you ask her about her accomplishments, she'll likely redirect the conversation to the organizations, volunteers, and community members who make the work possible. Originally from Southern California, Michele and her husband made the leap to North Idaho after falling in love with the area's natural beauty and strong sense of community. What started as a desire to get involved quickly evolved into decades of service supporting everything from environmental conservation and school gardens to veterans, youth programs, food security initiatives, and community improvement projects. One of the first lessons she learned was that meaningful volunteerism often begins with a simple question: "How can I help?" That mindset eventually led Michele to help launch school garden programs, support Food for Our Children, partner with Habitat for Humanity, coordinate veteran wood-cutting projects, and organize large-scale volunteer initiatives throughout Sandpoint. Along the way, she discovered something important: many people want to help, but they don't always know where to start. That's where Michele has found her niche. Rather than focusing on a single organization, she often serves as a bridge between nonprofits and community members who want to get involved. She understands that nonprofits are often stretched thin, and that volunteers need meaningful opportunities where they can make a difference. Her gift is bringing those two groups together. Perhaps nowhere is that more evident than through Serve Sandpoint, a community-wide volunteer initiative that connects hundreds of volunteers with local projects ranging from food banks and animal shelters to senior services, youth organizations, and housing programs. What began as a request to find service opportunities for a church group has grown into a community effort involving dozens of projects and hundreds of volunteers. For Michele, the work isn't just about completing tasks. It's about connection. One of her favorite emerging ideas is the concept of the "long table"—bringing people together after a day of service to share a meal, tell stories, and build relationships. Because while volunteer projects can improve buildings, gardens, or community spaces, it's often the conversations that happen afterward that leave the greatest impact. That theme surfaced throughout the conversation. Whether discussing school gardens, teen programs, Habitat for Humanity neighborhoods, or veteran support efforts, Michele repeatedly returned to the same idea: people want to belong. They want to contribute. They want to know they are part of something larger than themselves. And that's exactly what volunteerism provides. It helps people discover the needs that exist right in their own backyard. It creates opportunities to build relationships across generations and backgrounds. It reminds us that community isn't something we inherit—it's something we actively create together. At the Community Resource EnVision Center, we see that truth every day. The strongest communities aren't built by a handful of organizations working alone. They're built by neighbors showing up for one another, lending a hand, sharing their talents, and investing in the places they call home. Michele Murphy is a wonderful example of what that looks like in practice. Not because she has all the answers. But because she keeps asking one simple question: "How can I help?" And then she does. "I think people really want to be a part of something and want to contribute—they just don't always know how." Community Connection Interested in volunteering? Michele encourages community members to explore local opportunities through organizations like Habitat for Humanity, the Food Bank, Bonner Homeless Transitions, the Senior Center, the Animal Shelter, and the annual Serve Sandpoint initiative. Every act of service—big or small—helps strengthen our community. I think this one may actually be my favorite so far because it captures something that is central to both Michele's story and CREC's mission: community happens when ordinary people decide to get involved. 

More Than a House: How Habitat for Humanity is Building Stability in North Idaho What happens when a family no longer has to wonder where they'll live next year? For many of us, home is something we take for granted. It's the place where children do their homework, families gather around the dinner table, and neighbors become friends. But for families struggling to find affordable housing, home can feel just out of reach. On a recent episode of A Little Birdie Told Me , Lindsay Morgan sat down with Robin Rawlings, Executive Director of Idaho Panhandle Habitat for Humanity , to discuss how the organization is helping local families build more than houses—they're building stability, self-reliance, and opportunity. Habitat for Humanity is often misunderstood as an organization that gives away homes. Robin was quick to dispel that myth. "It's not a handout, it's a hand up," she explained. Families go through an extensive application process, must demonstrate the ability to repay a mortgage, complete financial education courses, and contribute hundreds of volunteer hours before ever receiving the keys to a home. The goal isn't simply homeownership. The goal is creating lasting stability. Through Habitat's program, families learn budgeting skills, home maintenance, financial planning, and the responsibilities that come with owning a home. They invest sweat equity into the process and become active participants in building their future. That stability has ripple effects far beyond a mortgage payment. As Lindsay noted during the conversation, when one of our most basic human needs is uncertain, everything else becomes more difficult. Housing insecurity impacts health, education, food security, employment, and overall well-being. Robin shared that children who grow up in stable housing often have greater opportunities to succeed because they aren't carrying the constant stress and uncertainty that comes with unstable living situations. This year marks a significant milestone for the organization: 30 years of service in the Idaho Panhandle. Since its founding, Habitat has completed 26 homes throughout the region and is currently preparing to build two additional homes in Sandpoint. For an organization that historically completed one home every few years, it's a sign of renewed momentum and growth. Robin describes the organization as entering a "new season"—one focused on growth, stronger community partnerships, and expanding impact throughout Bonner and Boundary Counties. That growth extends beyond new home construction. Last year, Habitat launched a Veteran Repair Program that provides critical home repairs for local veterans. Partnering with Home Depot, the program helps veterans address safety concerns and maintenance issues that may otherwise go unresolved. More importantly, it does so with dignity and gratitude for their service. The organization is also finding creative ways to strengthen community connections. This summer, Habitat is partnering with Cedar Hills Church to host a neighborhood cleanup and community meal, bringing residents together to improve their surroundings and build relationships with one another. At its core, Habitat for Humanity is about more than construction. It's about creating a foundation upon which families can build their lives. A stable home creates space for children to learn, parents to plan for the future, and families to invest in their communities. It turns uncertainty into opportunity and housing into hope. And in a region where affordable housing continues to be one of the greatest challenges facing working families, that work matters more than ever. To learn more about Idaho Panhandle Habitat for Humanity, volunteer opportunities, or the Veteran Repair Program, visit panhandlehabitat.org .

A Bird’s Eye View of Community At the Community Resource EnVision Center , our work is rooted in connection—but in practice, it looks like something more layered: listening closely, linking people to resources, and watching how a community becomes stronger when it is intentionally brought together. That idea came through clearly in a recent episode of A Little Birdie Told Me , featuring CREC Executive Director Katie Begalke during our 100th episode conversation. What emerged was not just a podcast milestone, but a reflection on how community systems actually function—and what it takes to hold them together. Because at its core, this work is about access, dignity, and ensuring people do not have to navigate life’s hardest moments alone. “We are a navigation system for people in crisis or in need and who are navigating life’s difficult moments.” Connection as the starting point CREC’s mission is to “empower the community through connection, service, and support.” While broad in language, it becomes very tangible in practice—especially for individuals reaching out for help for the first time. Many are navigating housing instability, transportation barriers, caregiving needs, or simply the uncertainty of where to begin. And that first step is often the hardest. As Katie shared: “We’re building this beautiful community puzzle, and pieces are just being dumped in our laps every day. Some pieces fit quickly. Others take time. But over time, patterns emerge and so does clarity." Why relationships matter As demand for services grows, so does the complexity of need. CREC has seen a significant rise in first-time clients—people who are often hesitant or overwhelmed when seeking help for the first time. In that space, connection becomes more than referral—it becomes trust-building. Because most people want to help, they just don’t always know where. “Most people want to help and they don’t know where they can help.” This is where CREC plays a unique role: not only connecting people to services, but connecting people to each other across nonprofits, businesses, and community systems working toward shared outcomes. “We see how one does affect the other. We’re all trying to make the community stronger and provide services.” A vision for shared space Much of the conversation also focused on what could be possible if community services were more intentionally co-located—reducing barriers and creating more seamless access to care. What if support didn’t require multiple stops across town? What if dignity was built into the experience of seeking help? Katie described that vision simply: “What would it look like if someone experiencing one of the hardest moments of their life didn't have to drive all over town searching for help? What if they could come to one place, have their needs met, and experience the dignity and support of an entire community?" While still evolving, pieces of this model already exist within CREC’s shared space, where more than 35 partners operate under one roof. The role of curiosity At the center of it all is relationship-building—not as a supporting function, but as the foundation of the work itself. Katie reflected on the idea that she doesn’t feel the pressure to actually have to have all the answers, but finds it more important to be brave enough to keep asking the questions, and inviting the right people to the table. That curiosity—staying open, listening closely, and following where connection leads—is what allows the work to grow beyond any single plan. Closing As A Little Birdie Told Me reaches its 100th episode, it continues to serve as more than a podcast. It is a reflection of the community it represents—one that is still evolving, still asking questions, and still building systems that make support more accessible. Because at the end of the day, this work is not about having everything figured out. It is about building something strong enough to hold people while the answers are still forming.

Beyond the Sale: Inside the Selkirk Association of REALTORS® Real estate in North Idaho is often viewed through listings, prices, and market trends—but behind every transaction is a network of professionals supporting buyers, sellers, and the broader community. Recently, Stephanie Rief, Dyno Wahl, and Fabiola Ferris, leaders from the Selkirk Association of REALTORS® shared insight into their work during our podcast in our studio, the local housing market, and the impact of their organization well beyond real estate. A Professional Network with Community Roots The Selkirk Association of REALTORS® is a member-based organization supporting real estate professionals through education, standards, and industry resources, including oversight of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Members include realtors, brokerages, and affiliate partners such as lenders, inspectors, and title companies—creating a connected system that helps transactions move more efficiently. Stephanie Rief, Executive Director of the Association explained, the MLS used to be books realtors used to physically carry around town. Now it’s all at their fingertips. A Shifting North Idaho Market North Idaho continues to see steady demand, shaped by both in-state movement and relocation from other states. The Association representatives noted that a significant share of buyers come from within Idaho (about 70%), while many others are arriving from out of state. Affordability remains a challenge for first-time buyers, even as conditions have shifted away from the peak pandemic market. “The market isn’t as intense as it was—it’s more of a conversation now between buyers and sellers,” Dyno Wahl, this year’s association president shared. Homes that are well-priced and well-prepared continue to move quickly, while overpriced or outdated homes tend to sit longer. Interest rates continue to play a major role in pacing and buyer confidence. What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know Preparation is critical on both sides of a transaction. Fabiola Ferris, realtor and Association President Elect emphasized that buyers who are pre-qualified makes all the difference. Without that, buyers riskShe also working outside their budget creates frustration for everyone involved. On the seller side, pricing strategy is just as important. Well-priced homes often attract immediate attention, while overpricing can extend time on market even in active conditions. The Work Behind the Commission The conversation also highlighted common misconceptions about realtors and their work. “There’s a misconception that realtors just make money hand over fit on every deal,” Rief said. “…but what they don’t understand is when a deal doesn’t close, they don’t get paid. They are taking a risk as well.” Agents often invest significantly upfront in marketing, photography, and listing preparation—without guaranteed return. Many also operate as independent contractors, managing unpredictable schedules and long client timelines. “We’re self-employed just like small business owners,” Wahl added. Realtors don’t get a regular paycheck, and invest in building everything from the ground up. And while the flexibility can be a benefit, it often comes with after-hours work, urgent negotiations, and constant availability. The group joked about the reality of the profession, noting that the day-to-day work is far more likely to involve hiking boots or Birkenstocks than stilettos, despite outside perceptions. More Than Real Estate: Community Impact Beyond transactions, the Association plays an active role in community support through grants, volunteer work, and fundraising. Funds raised through events like the annual golf tournament are reinvested into local nonprofits, emergency services, youth programs, and community infrastructure projects across North Idaho. The team spoke about what makes the Sandpoint area so special and livable, pointing to the many nonprofits, events, and community efforts that shape life in the region. “We live in this community, and we love this community and we are selling that it’s a great community. We want to put our money where our mouth is.” Wahl explained. Members also participate in community events, financial literacy programs for students, and local service initiatives that extend far beyond real estate. Ambassadors for North Idaho A recurring theme in the conversation was the role realtors play as community ambassadors and trusted advisors. The Association shared that it’s not just about selling a home—it’s about helping people understand where they’re choosing to live. Sometimes that means helping clients realize a community is the right fit. Other times, it means helping them recognize when it isn’t. Fabiola Ferris added, “Selling where you’re going to live is as important as selling the home.” That level of honesty, they noted, is central to building long-term trust with clients and strengthening the region as a whole. Looking Ahead As the Association continues its work, its focus remains on professionalism, community engagement, and supporting both members and the region they serve. While the market continues to evolve, their role remains steady: helping people navigate one of life’s biggest financial decisions with clarity, care, and integrity.

The Connections That Make a Community Communities are often measured by their population, their economy, or the projects taking shape around them. But the true strength of a community is harder to measure. It's found in the relationships between neighbors. The partnerships between organizations. The conversations that bring people together. And the shared belief that when challenges arise, no one should have to face them alone. Looking back on May, one theme emerged again and again across Bonner County: connection. We saw it through Live Give 7B , where hundreds of donors, businesses, volunteers, and nonprofit organizations came together to raise more than $318,000 for local causes. While the dollars will support important work throughout the year, the greatest impact may be the reminder that generosity is strongest when a community acts together. We saw it in conversations about wildfire preparedness . Long before the first evacuation notice is issued or the first emergency shelter opens, communities begin building resilience through planning, partnerships, and preparation. The ability to respond during a crisis is often determined by the connections that exist before one occurs. We saw it in the growing conversation around community spaces. From the library expansion and the Cedar Street Bridge to the Aquatic Center, Historical Society, CTE Center, and Community Hub, these projects share a common purpose. At their best, they create opportunities for people to gather, learn, collaborate, and belong. They become places where connection happens. At the Community Resource EnVision Center, we see this every day. Behind every successful referral, every housing placement, every job connection, and every solved problem is a network of people and organizations working together to help someone move forward. Progress rarely happens in isolation. Neither does community. As Bonner County continues to grow, the opportunity before us is not simply to build more programs, services, or buildings. It is to strengthen the connections between them. Because the strongest communities aren't defined by any one organization, project, or initiative. They are defined by how well those pieces work together. And that may be the most important investment we can make in our future.

For children experiencing abuse or neglect, one caring adult can change everything. That’s the mission behind North Idaho CASA, an organization that trains volunteer advocates to stand beside children navigating some of the hardest moments of their lives. CASA advocates provide stability, support, and hope for children caught in the foster care and child welfare systems. Director of Development for North Idaho CASA, Kristin Linville Ludwig, emphasizes that when it comes to serving underprivileged children, community awareness and community action matter now more than ever. What Is CASA? CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates . These volunteers are appointed by judges to represent the best interests of children involved in abuse and neglect cases. When children are removed from their homes and enter the court system, CASA advocates become a consistent voice focused entirely on the child’s wellbeing. Parents often have attorneys. Agencies have caseworkers. CASA exists to make sure the child has someone advocating specifically for them. And unlike many professionals involved in the system, CASA advocates are volunteers. That distinction matters deeply. For many children, especially teenagers, trust is hard-earned. CASA volunteers often become one of the few dependable adults in a child’s life, someone who consistently shows up simply because they care. “A lot of our teens really love the relationship they have with their advocates because they’re showing up,” she says. “They’re volunteering to show up. They’re not a caseworker. They’re not showing up just because they have to.” That consistency can be life-changing. Many of the children CASA serves have experienced instability, trauma, addiction within the home, or generations of neglect. Some have never experienced a healthy adult relationship modeled for them. Advocates help change that. Some volunteers focus heavily on investigation and court advocacy. Others naturally become mentors, encouragers, or “grandparent figures” for children who desperately need emotional support. CASA intentionally tries to match volunteers with cases where their personality and strengths fit the needs of the child. And when a relationship forms, it often lasts years. One of the biggest misconceptions about CASA is that advocates need a professional background in law, counseling, or social work. Kristin says they don’t. “There is no specific perfect advocate,” she explains. “Our advocates are ordinary people that do extraordinary things.” CASA volunteers come from all walks of life: retirees, younger professionals, teachers, foster parents, and community members who simply want to help. Some stay involved for a few years. Others become what CASA affectionately calls “lifers.” Several advocates in North Idaho have volunteered for more than 25 years. The work can be emotionally heavy, but CASA creates strong support systems among volunteers because many cases involve difficult realities that advocates cannot publicly discuss. “These kids and these cases affect you,” Kristin explains. “You definitely have the support.” Why Reporting Matters One of CASA’s newest initiatives is an “Educate to Advocate” campaign focused on helping community members recognize and report possible abuse or neglect. Many abuse investigations reveal a troubling pattern: people suspected something was wrong, but nobody spoke up. Sometimes neighbors noticed concerning behavior. Sometimes family members had a bad feeling. Sometimes teachers or community members saw warning signs but hesitated because they didn’t want to interfere. That hesitation can have devastating consequences. “We always encourage people to call on even the slightest suspicion,” Kristin says. “If everything’s fine, then everything’s fine. There’s no harm.” The organization emphasizes that reporting suspected abuse does not automatically mean children will be removed from a home. Instead, reports allow law enforcement and child welfare professionals to identify patterns, investigate concerns, and ensure children are safe. “The more reporting that happens on the same kid or the same family or the same address,” Kristin explains, “law enforcement’s going to have that flagged, and they’re going to have eyes on that family.” Kristin also acknowledges that child neglect can be more complicated than many people realize. Clear physical abuse is easier for most people to identify. Neglect, however, often exists in gray areas shaped by poverty, family instability, mental health, or addiction. A child wearing dirty clothes or arriving late to school repeatedly may not necessarily be neglected. There may be transportation struggles, financial hardship, or other circumstances outsiders don’t fully understand. That’s why CASA encourages people not to investigate situations themselves or make assumptions. Instead, they urge people to trust their instincts and allow trained professionals to assess concerns appropriately. “It’s not for us to decide,” Kristin says. “It’s for law enforcement to get it on the record, to investigate, and then to have eyes on those kids.” One of the most powerful parts of the conversation centered around generational trauma. Many abuse and neglect cases are not isolated situations. Often, parents experienced similar trauma growing up, creating cycles that repeat across generations. But CASA believes those cycles can be interrupted. With proper support, advocacy, counseling, and stable adult relationships, children can recognize unhealthy patterns and build different futures for themselves. “These kids have a chance to really recognize their trauma, to change their patterns, and to stop that cycle of abuse,” Kristin says. For volunteers, being part of that transformation can be incredibly rewarding. “Knowing what that child has come from and where they can end up, where their whole life trajectory has changed by the involvement of one person, wouldn’t it just be awesome if you were that person?” asks Kristin. How the Community Can Help Not everyone has the capacity to become a CASA advocate, and Kristin understands that. But there are many ways to support the mission. The organization hosts multiple fundraisers throughout the year, including: A fall gala and auction event A long-running “Purses for a Purpose” fundraiser Golf tournaments Community awareness campaigns Volunteers also help with event planning, outreach, donor engagement, and public education efforts. At its core, CASA’s message is simple: protecting children is everyone’s responsibility. “Kids are our future,” Kristin says. And for children navigating trauma, abuse, and instability, the presence of one trusted adult can alter the course of an entire life. Whether through volunteering, donating, attending an event, or simply speaking up when something feels wrong, CASA believes every community member has a role to play. Sometimes, changing a child’s future starts with something as simple and as difficult as trusting your gut.

When Gabe Custodio first set out on his career path, he envisioned working with athletes as a sports psychologist. But life, and one pivotal internship, had other plans. Today, he is helping lead one of Idaho’s most innovative mental health initiatives, a community-driven clubhouse model that is changing how people experience recovery. Gabe’s early academic focus was sports psychology, with ambitions of supporting athletes. That trajectory shifted during graduate school, when he interned with underserved youth facing significant mental health challenges. “That experience opened up a new path for me,” Gabe says. One experience completely shifted Gabe’s mindset and his ideas for what his career should look like. Eventually, Gabe and his wife made a major life change. They left the fast-paced San Francisco Bay Area for North Idaho in search of a slower, more family-centered lifestyle. Without a job lined up, they took a leap, and it paid off. Gabe found himself once again supporting young adults with mental health issues, specifically those transitioning back into school, employment, and stability. A First-of-Its-Kind Program in Idaho Today, Gabe serves as Program Director of Sand Creek Connections , a program under NAMI Far North , which is part of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Sand Creek Connections operates using the internationally recognized clubhouse model and is the first of its kind in Idaho. This model dates back to the 1950s and is built on a simple but powerful belief: recovery is possible, and it happens through community. Traditional mental health care often centers around clinical appointments. A therapist visit here, a medication check there. But what about the time in between? “That’s where isolation can creep in,” Gabe explains. Sand Creek Connections exists to fill that gap. It is not a clinical program. There are no therapists or treatment sessions on site. Instead, it offers a structured, stigma-free environment where members can build purpose, routine, and connection. At the heart of the clubhouse model is something called the work-ordered day. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, members and staff work side by side to run the clubhouse. And run is meant literally. Members contribute to: Cooking and serving meals Cleaning and maintaining the space Managing finances Running social media Planning events Even interviewing potential staff “It’s meaningful work,” Gabe says. “Not busywork. The clubhouse depends on it.” That sense of ownership is key. Members are not passive participants. They are co-creators of the environment. Structure is a major component to this model and seemingly simple moments still have a big impact. Shared meals, for example, are a cornerstone of the day. For individuals who may feel isolated or disconnected, cooking for someone or being served by someone can be deeply meaningful. “It builds connection in a very real way,” Gabe says. Growth, Momentum, and Real Results Since opening in November 2024, Sand Creek Connections has seen rapid growth: 73 total members and growing. About 12 in attendance per day. A steadily increasing presence in the community. The space can get a little tight at times, but that reflects strong engagement. One of the biggest challenges is funding. Currently, 100% of the program’s funding comes from grants and private donations, thanks to the work of its board and grant writers. Government funding has been limited, which makes community support even more important. Research shows that supporting someone through a clubhouse program for an entire year can cost roughly the same as just one week in an emergency room setting. The clubhouse model is backed by decades of research. Some key outcomes include: Higher employment rates. Around 40% of clubhouse members return to work, compared to roughly 20% among those with mental health challenges. Reduced recidivism. Participants are less likely to re-enter the criminal justice system. Improved long-term stability and independence. “We’re already seeing those results in our own community,” Gabe notes. Breaking Down Misconceptions Despite its success, misconceptions still exist. Some people worry about safety or assume members are difficult to engage with. The clubhouse is not a crisis center. Instead, it serves individuals who are stable but still need support, structure, and direction. “Our members are talented, capable, and resilient,” Gabe says. “You often cannot tell who is staff and who is a member, and that is by design.” While financial contributions are always needed, community involvement is just as valuable. There are many ways to support Sand Creek Connections: Volunteer your time Lead a workshop or class Provide a meal Join an advisory board Stop by for a tour Local artists, therapists, and businesses have already contributed in creative ways, from teaching college workshops to offering wellness sessions. “We want our members to feel seen not just inside the clubhouse, but in the broader community,” Gabe says. Sand Creek Connections is a trailblazing organization we are lucky to have in our community. 

Originally from Florida, Virginia always felt pulled toward something. She just didn’t know what that something was. This desire led her to make a move to New Hampshire in her late twenties, a decision that would shape everything that followed. For the first time, she was fully on her own. Instead of living by others’ expectations, she focused on a bigger question: what does Virginia want? “It was one of the best things I did for myself,” she says. “And also the scariest.” While living in New Hampshire, Virginia met her future husband in an unexpected way, on Instagram. Her marriage brought her here. Virginia had dreamed of living by mountains since childhood, North Idaho immediately felt like home. But with her dream location came new challenges. Marriage, step-parenting, and building a life with someone else pushed her to confront parts of herself she had not fully explored. “My relationship became a mirror,” she says. “It showed me the things I was avoiding.” With a new marriage she was learning to navigate, Virginia dove deeper into personal development. She explored inner child healing, listened to podcasts, and began working with life coaches. Through hiring a life coach, she not only processed her past, she gained clarity on how to move forward. Eventually, that experience inspired her to become a life coach herself. Today, she helps women navigate relationships, identity, and personal growth, guiding them back to themselves while building a path forward. What Is Life Coaching, Really? Life coaching can feel vague to many people, and Virginia acknowledges that it is a broad field. “It’s kind of the Wild West,” she jokes. At its core, coaching is about forward momentum. While therapy often focuses on understanding the past, coaching emphasizes building the future. It focuses on creating actionable plans and aligning your life with what you truly want. Virginia sees coaching as a complement to therapy, not a replacement. “It’s like a next step,” she explains. “You’ve done some healing, and now you’re ready to build.” You Don’t Need All the Answers A common misconception about coaching is that you need to have a clear goal before you start. Virginia says that’s not true. In fact, some of the most powerful transformations begin with uncertainty. “I don’t know what I want, but I know this isn’t it. That’s enough,” she says. That space of not knowing can become an opportunity to create something entirely new. So how does someone know if coaching is right for them? Virginia points to one simple starting point: curiosity. “It really begins with genuine curiosity,” she explains, “and being in a season of life where you are open to trying something new.” Many coaches offer free consultations, giving people a chance to explore what they want and whether the fit feels right. And fit matters. “It’s about finding someone you connect with,” she adds. “Someone you feel comfortable opening up to.” Building “Talking Blondes” After becoming a life coach, the idea of starting a podcast struck Virginia. But the vision didn’t become clear until she found her perfect partner in her now bestie, Caitlin. Though they were friends beforehand, interestingly, Caitlin was one of her first coaching clients. Their conversations were so engaging and natural that starting a podcast felt like the obvious next step. After about a year of planning, Talking Blondes launched. The show blends mental health, personal growth, and everyday life with a tone that feels like two friends talking over coffee. Some episodes tackle heavier topics like narcissistic relationships, while others explore lighter themes like pop culture. Episodes are long-form, often one to two hours, designed for listeners who want to really sit with a conversation. “It’s like being at a table with us,” Virginia says. The podcast releases every other week, with each host taking turns leading discussions and bringing their own perspective. What started as a creative project is now becoming something bigger. Virginia and Caitlin are building a community, both through their listeners and by planning to feature guests, including women entrepreneurs and voices from their local networks. Even without heavy promotion, the podcast has gained steady traction, with hundreds of streams and a growing audience. But what matters most is not the numbers. It is the impact. “When someone messages us and says an episode meant something to them,” Virginia says, “that’s everything.” Virginia’s story is a reminder that growth takes time, and it does not happen by accident. Whether through coaching, self-reflection, or simply being open to change, the path forward often begins with a simple question:  What do I actually want, and am I ready to go after it? Find the Talking Blondes on Social Media: Talking Blondes Instagram: talkingblondespod T alking Blondes YouTube: Talking Blondes Podcast Virginia Herb Coaching: www.virginiaherbcoaching.com