A Northwest nonprofit that provides those with special needs recreational opportunities has started raising funds for a retreat facility in Kootenai County.

"We'd like to put our headquarters here," said Brook Folda, an Athol resident and volunteer for Handicapped Challenge.

Folda said the all-volunteer nonprofit would like to purchase a 28,000-square-foot facility in the Wolf Lodge area that's on the market for $680,000, but the group has just started raising funds for the project by selling gift booklets and organizing benefit concerts.

"Some people may look at it as a pipe dream, but it's a dream that can come true," Folda said. "We're working hard to make sure it happens.

"There is a need to give families of those with special needs a break because it can be very stressful. It puts a toll on families."

The Wolf Lodge site is outfitted for a bowling alley and swimming pool inside and a pond outside.

"It's not finished, but it's perfect for our needs and already has an elevator shaft," she said. "It's a perfect recreational opportunity."

However, if the nonprofit can't secure the site, other options will still be considered in North Idaho, Folda said.

The nonprofit has volunteers from throughout the Northwest, but this area is centrally located, close to a major airport and medical facilities and provides a plethora of recreational opportunities.

Handicapped Challenge was founded in 2005 by Darrell Eby, of Troy, Mont., who has a disabled son who now lives in Hayden Lake. Eby desired a source of social support for those with special needs and their families.

The nonprofit has assisted individual families, but would like to expand by providing a retreat facility and more visible headquarters.

The group is selling booklets for $20 with business discounts in locations throughout the region. The booklets are also a way for other groups and charities to raise funds as the proceeds would be split between Handicapped Challenge and the participating group.

For more information on the nonprofit, how to become involved and ways to donate, visit handicappedchallenge.org.

To order a booklet or if you have questions, call Folda at 771-4631 or e-mail brook.folda@handicappedchallenge.org.