COEUR d’ALENE — North Idaho’s only NAACP chapter has invited the community to its first in-person event since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Kootenai County NAACP “meet and greet” is noon to 3 p.m. Saturday at Phippeny Park, 827 N. Eighth St.

The free event will feature live music and food by Taco Works CDA.

Community members can meet the local branch officers and committee chairs, as well as learn about how to get involved.

The NAACP is the oldest and largest civil rights organization in America.

Established in early 2020, the Kootenai County branch was Idaho’s first nationally recognized branch of the NAACP in more than 85 years. Branches also operate in Boise, Pocatello and Spokane.

The local branch’s stated mission is to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons. Monthly meetings held via Zoom are open to the public.

“If you are passionate about making change and want to be part of the conversation on diversity in a way that makes it approachable and actionable, we welcome your ideas and enthusiasm,” Christine Harding said in an email.

Info: kootenaicountynaacp.org.