Meet Joanne Braun, a Coeur d'Alene resident, cycling enthusiast, avid gardener and believer in the power of community.

1) What exactly is Warm Showers, and how did you become a part of this community?

Warm Showers is an international program for cycle tourists to stay in the home of a local person. This service is accessed by an app called Warm Showers. I began being a hostess when I lived in La Paz, Bolivia. I have continued that here in Coeur d'Alene. The hostess/host can offer accommodation, shower and food. I enjoy this very much as I meet interesting cyclists from around the world.

2) What was your experience biking the Great Divide?

I rode the Great Mountain Bike Divide ride, which is almost 3,000 miles of backcountry travel on the Continental Divide from Canada to New Mexico. This route has been around for over 25 years and is a challenging, beautiful ride. I did this ride in 2021 with a group of women. I loved every minute of it — riding all day, sleeping under the stars and getting up and riding again the next day.

3) When and why did you start participating in the Shared Harvest Community Garden?

I started volunteering at the Shared Harvest Community Garden about five years ago. I wanted to learn more about gardening and eventually was asked to join the board.

4) What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

I like to skinny-dip.

5) Why is it important to build community, whether it's in a garden, on the road or in our own local towns?

Community is how I believe we find meaning in our lives. Community is support, friendship and fun. These are the people who will walk with us through life with all of its joys and challenges.