COEUR D'ALENE INSIDER

INLAND NORTHWEST SIDS FOUNDATION "SAFE START PROGRAMS"

3649 N. Cederblom St., CdA

206-582-6191

 

Car seat checks are offered at various scheduled locations (app't recommended by texting CHECK to 844-619-2048 or email safestartnw.org) by certified technicians FREE of charge at various locales, including the CdA office (above). As part of the Rural Education Outreach Program. North Idaho locations may include: Kellogg, Osburn, Clark Fork, St. Maries, Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint, Worley, & Plummer.

• April 16 (Wed), 9 am-noon, Worley Longhouse, 160 S. Mitch Michael Dr., Worley

• April 18 (Fri), 2-5 pm, Shoshone Fire Station #1, 58738 Silver Valley Rd., Osburn

• April 23 (Wed), 2:30-5:30 pm, St. Maries Fire Station, 308 Jefferson Ave., St. Maries

• April 30 (Wed), 2-5 pm, Timberlake Fire Station, 5985 E. Hwy 54, Athol

• May 1 (Thurs), 2-5 pm, Spirit Lake Fire Station, 2001 Peoria Ave., Spirit Lake

**Note that new, safe car seats & cribs will be available for those in need.

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"Child Safety 101" via Zoom

This is a FREE class for parents, grandparents, babysitters, or anyone who cares for a child from birth on.

Class covers CPR, choking of infant or young child, severe allergic reactions, how to use an epi-pen, seizures, bleeding, eye injuries & more. The last 35 minutes of class will focus on newborn care including feeding, soothing a fussy baby, swaddling & early baby care. (For those not caring for a newborn, this part of class is optional.) More info HERE.

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"Safe Sleep 101" via Zoom

This FREE class teaches parents/grandparents/caregivers safe sleeping techniques for infants. Participants receive a FREE Halo Sleep Sack. More info HERE. **This class fulfills the City of CdA's requirement for licensed child care providers. Also fulfills the requirement to receive a portable crib. 

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"Car Seat Safety 101" via Zoom

Learn how to choose the correct car seat, safest location for installation, when to graduate to next size & more. FREE! More info HERE. This class fulfills the requirement to receive a car seat if needed.

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"Childbirth" via Zoom

This is a 4-part series on childbirth: Pregnancy & Labor, Birth, Medical Procedures, & After the Birth. Classes can be taken in any order & are FREE! Zoom link will be provided on the day of the class. Register online HERE.

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"Anyone who does anything to help a child in his life is a hero.”  --Mr. Fred Rogers

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Varies - Free!

PANHANDLE HEALTH DISTRICT

8500 N. Atlas Rd., Hayden

208-415-5142

"Fit & Fall Proof" exercise classes are designed for older adults ages 65+ to prevent falls. FREE classes focus on strength, flexibility, mobility & balance. 

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Here are some of the locations:

• Athol

• Bonners Ferry

• Coeur d'Alene

• Clark Fork

• Fernwood

• Harrison

• Hauser

• Hayden

• Kellogg

• Post Falls 

• Rathdrum

• Sandpoint

• Spirit Lake​

Click HERE for schedules. For more info, call 208-415-5142 (Carolyn Jaeger, Program Coordinator), or email cjaeger@phd1.idaho.gov. 

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Varies - Free!

TBA  |  6-7:30 pm (Th)

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PILGRIM'S MARKET

1316 N. 4th St., CdA 

208-676-9730​​

A variety of FREE classes focused on healthy habits are offered by Pilgrim's Market monthly. Most are for adults; however, special children's craft projects are extremely popular, so RSVP as soon as possible for those before spots fill up.

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Email Julie at events@pilgrimsmarket.com to register for classes/workshops, which are held at Pilgrim's event space, 1411 N. 4th St., CdA. 

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Varies - Free!

IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF FISH & GAME offers certification classes for hunter/bowhunter, & trapper at various times/locations. Cost is minimal.

 

Trapper Education Classes:​​

• April 11 - Athol

• June 6 - Coeur d'Alene​

Wolf Trapper Education:​

• April 12 - Sandpoint

• June 7 - Coeur d'Alene

Hunter & Bowhunter Certification:​​​

• April 23 - Athol

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​​Click link above for details & registration links, or call 208-769-1414. Note: Classes fill up quickly & there may be waiting lists. Pre-study requirements w/manuals & additional consecutive dates may apply.​

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Varies - (Almost Free) $9.75

​​GIZMO-CDA

North Idaho College Hedlund Bldg.

238 Hubbard Ave., Ste. 102, CdA

208-929-4029

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GIZMO-CDA is Coeur d'Alene's non-profit community makerspace for all ages. It is a "place where ​art, design, technology & tools are connected by the hands & minds of the people of this community." At varous times, FREE classes, workshops & educational seminars are offered. Click HERE to see what's going on.

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Note there are membership fees - providing a low-cost alternative to purchasing tools/equipment. Members gain access to a phenomenal makerspace, in addition to Gizmo's collection of tools, equipment, & computers/software. Membership perks include FREE training! Degree-seeking students enrolled at North Idaho College are eligible for discounted rates.

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Educators looking for STEAM or Makerspace resources can borrow equipment from Gizmo's "Lending Library". More info HERE.​

 

Curious? FREE walk-in tours are available on Wednesdays, 7-9 pm,, & Saturdays, noon-2 pm. Call 208-929-4029 for more info.

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Varies - Free!

Wednesday (1st)  |  10-11 am (W)

LAKE CITY CENTER

1916 Lakewood Dr., Coeur d'Alene

208-667-4628

"Smart Phone Class" is held on the 1st Wednesday of each month FREE of charge.

Designed for seniors, learn about "apps", storing info, navigation, calling, taking photos & using albums, texting & emailing. Walk-ins are welcome.

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Tuesday (2nd)  | 2-3 pm (T)

PINEHURST LIBRARY

107 Main St., Pinehurst

Need help on utilizing technology, or a specific issue? Drop in anytime between 2-3 pm on the 2nd Tuesday to receive tech help from a librarian. ​

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Friday (1st)  |  2-4 pm (F)

HAYDEN LIBRARY

8385 N. Government Way, Hayden

"Get Started With 3D Printing"

New to 3D printing? Discover how these printing services work in a network, & what FREE resources can be utilized. Plug into this fantastic service. All ages are welcome to drop into this open house every 1st Friday.

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Varies - Free!

IDAHO STATE TAX COMMISSION

1910 Northwest Blvd., Ste. 100, CdA

800-972-7660

(Classes offered as Webinars)

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Geared for people who recently started a small business in Idaho, or who are considering a start-up, these FREE classes cover: employer requirements, ID tax permits, exemptions, withholding, sales tax & more. See schedules & register HERE.

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Varies - Free!

​​​TBA  |  TBA​​

FRIENDS OF IDAHO PANHANDLE AVALANCHE CENTER presents FREE instruction for those interested in avalanche safety.

 

No registration is needed for the "Avalanche Awareness" evening classes.  in various locations (see above). All levels of experience are welcome. ​

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The session consists of (1) hour "Know Before You Go" (KBYG) presentation followed by a Q&A/social hour. See the destructive power of avalanches, understand when  why they happen, & learn how to have fun in the mountains while being cautiously aware of snow danger.

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Varies - Free!

NORTH IDAHO LIBRARIES offer special classes too for all ages, & they are always FREE! If registration is required, it will be noted.

 

See library addresses, phone numbers, website links & event schedules HERE for these libraries: COEUR D'ALENE, HAYDEN, POST FALLS, RATHDRUM, ATHOL, SPIRIT LAKE, HARRISON, ST. MARIES, PLUMMER, PINEHURST, MULLAN, OSBURN, KELLOGG, & WALLACE.

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COEUR D'ALENE LIBRARY:​​

• Yoga for You! - M & F, 9:30 am for ages 18+

• Tai Chi & Qi Gong - Tuesdays, 10 am for ages 18+

• Stronger in Body & Mind - Wednesdays, 9:30 am for ages 16+

• Sit-n-Stitch - Wednesdays, 11 am for ages 12+

• Community Sew-In - Thursdays, noon-3 pm for all ages

• Journaling Gratitude - Apr 12, 10:30 am for ages 16+

• Lawyer in the Library - April 3, 4-6 pm, must register 24 hours in advance HERE

• Scribbler's Society Writing Club - TBA, 2 & 5 pm for ages 18+​

• Ukulele Club - 2nd Sat, 3-4:30 pm

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COMMUNITY LIBRARY NETWORK​

• Family Storytelling With Patrick Mitchell - April 15, noon-1:30 pm, Harrison; April 16, 3-4:15 pm, Rathdrum; April 16, 5-6:30 pm; April 18, 3-4 pm, Post Falls

• Patio Gardens & Vegetables in Containers - April 12, 10:30 am-noon, Athol; April 14, 5-6:30 pm, Post Falls; April 16, 2-3:30 pm, Pinehurst

• DIY Soil Making - April 26, 1-2:30 pm, Harrison; May 2, noon-1:30 pm, Athol; May 10, 10:30 am-noon, Post Falls; May 24, 1-2:30 pm, Rathdrum

• Native-Inspired Companion Planting - April 10, 10:30 am-noon; April 19, 10:30 am-noon, Spirit Lake​

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Varies - Free!

​"The Well" is a fantastic community outreach program offered FREE of charge (no Kroc membership needed) at various times of the month, or weekly, at CdA's Kroc Center. 

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SALVATION ARMY KROC CENTER

1765 W. Golf Course Rd., Coeur d'Alene

208-763-0636​

The wellness journey includes:

• "Kroc Talks" features local industry professionals speaking on wellness-related topics once a month on Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 pm. See dates & topics HERE. FREE childcare is provided for ages 3 months to 5 years. Youth participants from ages 6-11 can attend The Zone FREE of charge if their parent is participating in Kroc Talks. Questions? Call 208-763-0679 or email jules.cosby@usw.salvationarmy.org. 

• "Mental Awareness Club" (MAC) is a safe space for youth to talk about mental health on Wednesdays, 3:30-5 pm. Questions? Call Tyson at 208-763-0605 or email tyson.durbin@usw.salvationarmy.org. 

• "Healthy Aging" is senior-specific, concentrating on getting seniors connected to our community & new friends. Also fitness concerns; snacks provided. More info - 208-763-0616 (Jorie), or email jorie.sanner@usw.salvationarmy.org. Click HERE for activity choices, dates & an excellent newletter. 

• "Community Workouts" occurs monthly w/certified instructors who teach workouts such as yoga or pilates w/modifications. Contact Jules at 208-763-0679 or email jules.cosby@usw.salvationarmy.org. 

• "Wellness Workshops" are led by certified trainers/instructors who teach tools for improving overall health via exercise, nutrition & mindset. Contact Jules (see above info) for more. 

• "Walk n'Talk" are a safe space to meet others & connect thru meaningful conversation, activity & accountability. Meet at track on Tuesdays, 11 am-noon. Note there is a minimal fee for non-members; FREE for members.

• "Family Game Night" is for everyone! Gather w/family & friends for group games, followed by board games.​

 

Varies - Free!

THE LITERACY PROJECT OF NORTH IDAHO offers FREE of charge:

• English as a Second Language (ESL) - one-on-one tutoring & classes

• Low Literacy - one-on-one confidential tutoring sessions

All books & study materials are provided.

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Classes are held at NIC's Hedlund Bldg, 420 N. College Dr., CdA. Tutoring takes place wherever the tutor & student agree to meet. Coverage area is from Sandpoint to Plummer.

 

For more info or to register for classes, call 208-450-2669, click HERE or email info@theliteracyprojectni.org. 

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Want to volunteer either as a tutor/instructor, or in another capacity? Email Nicole at office@theliteracyprojectni.org 

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Varies - Free!

Curious about your family history? FREE genealogy help is provided at Hayden Library by KOOTENAI COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY. Call 208-772-5612 for more info.

 

Another source of assistance &/or classes is HAYDEN LAKE FAMILY HISTORY CENTER, located at 2293 E. Hanley Ave., CdA. Genealogists gather for informative topics monthly & are classes FREE & open to the public. ​

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More info - 208-765-0150 or email haydenlakefhc@gmail.com.

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Varies - Free!

​Every Tuesday  |  3-4 pm (Oct-May)

BAYVIEW COMMUNITY CENTER

20298 E. Perimeter Rd., Bayview

208-683-8040

 

"Functional Strength & Cardio" classes are offered every Tuesday - FREE of charge! Work at your own pace & join at any time. Take a mat, water & (optional) weights.

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With a goal of staying active, as well as being able to do everyday tasks, go - have fun & stay fit with friends.

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Questions? Contact A.C.E. certified instructor Jorja Auten at 208-661-7469 or email Jorja@autenco.com. 

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Tuesdays - Free!

COEUR D'ALENE LIBRARY

702 E. Front Ave., CdA

208-769-2315

Need help with Medicare choices? SHIBA (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) provides FREE unbiased information via monthly in-person workshops (no registration needed).

TBA  |  1:30-2:30 pm (T)

"Medicare Annual Enrollment"

TBA  |  1:30-2:30 pm (T)

"Using the Medicare Plan Finder"

TBA  |  1:30-2:30 pm (T)

"Changes to Medicare for 2025"

TBA  |  3-4:30 pm (W)

"Introduction to Medicare 101 & 201"

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Classes focus on the annual enrollment period, using the Medicare Plan Finder & changes to Medicare for 2025.​

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Whether you're on a Medicare plan, or just heading into the maze of plans & coverages, SHIBA counselors will guide you through. The program is a service of Idaho Department of Insurance.

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SHIBA Region 1 is located at 2005 Ironwood Parkway, Ste. 143, CdA. Phone: 800-247-4422.

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Varies - Free!

TBA  |  6-8:30 pm (W)

IDAHO PARKS & RECREATION

Farragut State Park

13550 Hwy 54, Athol

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Pre-registration is required for the FREE "IDPR Responsible Riders" course for dirtbike riders, held at Farragut State Park. Lessons include starting/stopping, quick turns, hill riding, emergency moves & riding over obstacles.

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For ages 6 & up, a parent must be present for riders under 16. Proper riding gear must be worn. Take own vehicle. Click the IDPR link above for info.

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Varies - Free!

April 16  |  9:30-11 am (W)

"Embracing Death & Dying According to Faith Traditions: Mennonite"

May 21  |  9:30-11 am (W)

"Embracing Death & Dying According to Faith Traditions: Four Square Pentecostal"

June 18  |  9:30-11 am (W)

"Embracing Death & Dying According to Faith Traditions: Atheism & Nones"

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HOSPICE OF NORTH IDAHO invites community members to explore "Embracing Death & Dying According to Faith Traditions", a monthly educational series. Each spiritual care session covers the history, beliefs & traditions of death/dying in various faiths.​

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In-person attendance is suggested; however, events are livestreamed also. Click the Hospice link above to register. All are FREE! 

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Varies - Free!

​IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Post Falls Office

600 N. Thornton St., Post Falls

208-457-8789

Time for a change - a new career/job? Show up at monthly hiring events to meet employers ready to hire.

 

Part-time, full-time & seasonal; entry level, skilled trades & professional. Many employers will be on site to hire. Take resume, ask questions & dress for success. Questions? Contact Tara McKelvey, 208-457-8789, Ext 3141 or email tara.mckelvey@labor.idaho.gov. 

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IDOL also offers in-person classes on various dates to help job seekers succeed - resume & cover letter workshops, computer basics, maximizing job searches, & more. See calendar of FREE events HERE.

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Varies - Free!

​Every M & F  |  9:30 am

COEUR D'ALENE LIBRARY

702 E. Front Ave., CdA

208-769-2315

 

Gather for a blend of stretching, strengthening & balance work every Monday & Friday. Taught by Gerry Bryak, all levels are welcome FREE of charge! Take your own mat, please.

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Mondays & Fridays - Free!

NORTH IDAHO COLLEGE 

Adult Education Center

1000 W. Garden Ave., Coeur d'Alene

208-665-5099 (info & registration)

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NIC provides assistance to individuals who want to prepare for the GED® test. Tuition is FREE for students & most learning materials are provided! Choose online or in-person instruction.

 

• Language Arts

• Mathematics

• Science & Social Studies

• English Language Acquisition (ELA)

 

The AEC program allows students to progress at their own pace & offers small group instruction to achieve goals. Locations are CdA, Silver Valley, St. Maries, Sandpoint & Bonners Ferry.

 

Are you ready? Click on North Idaho College link above, or call 208-665-5099.

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Varies - Free!

UI EXTENSION, KOOTENAI COUNTY

1250 Ironwood Dr., Ste 107, CdA

208-292-1377

Email: kootenaimg@uidaho.edu

 

Offers FREE assistance in horticultural topics such as food production, pest management, forestry, identification of insects/weeds/plants, soil improvement, growing turf grass, & sustainable yards & gardens. Stop into the office for advice or to pick up gardening handouts. 

 

Workshops are also held on these topics:​​

• Idaho Panhandle Forestry

• Eat Smart Idaho

Or learn about 4-H Youth Development & the Idaho Master Gardener Program. 

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For classes/workshops, fees are minimal, which cover handouts & refreshments. Space is limited, so view schedules & register online HERE.

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Varies - Minimal Cost

Varies  |  Varies 

LOWE'S

901 Appleway Ave.

208-665-1313

FREE home improvement workshops for all are offered weekly at Lowe's. Experts in their departments teach the DIY classes. Online registration is easy. Set zip code, see list of classes & register HERE.

 

Varies  |  Varies

HOME DEPOT

220 W. Kathleen Ave., Coeur d'Alene, ID

208-676-1441

Register online for FREE weekly workshops taught by Home Depot experts - tile, drywall, birdhouses, flooring, paint, lighting, plumbing, special kids' events & more. Easy online RSVP HERE.

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Varies - Free!

IDAHO PARKS & RECREATION

FARRAGUT STATE PARK

13550 Hwy 54, Athol

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Pre-registration is required for the FREE "IDPR Responsible Riders" course for ATV/UTV operators. Lessons include pre-ride inspection, starting/stopping, quick turns, hill riding, emergency stopping/swerving & obstacles.

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For ages 6 & up, a parent must be present for riders under 16. Proper riding gear must be worn. Take own ATV/UTV. Click the IDPR link above for more info.

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Varies - Free!