Cornhole for a cause
CAROLINE LOBSINGER | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 11 months, 3 weeks AGO
Harvest Valley Worship Center is hosting an upcoming cornhole tournament to raise funds for the Freedom House, a faith-based addiction recovery program.
Photo via SHUTTERSTOCK
I grew up in the Tri-Cities, Wash., and have always loved to write. I attended the University of Washington, where I earned a double major in journalism and political science, with an area of emphasis in history. I am the fifth out of six kids — don't believe any of the stories that my siblings tell. To be able to tell others stories and take photos for a living is a dream come true — and I considered myself blessed to be a community journalist. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking and spending time outdoors, genealogy, reading, and watching the UW Huskies and the Seattle Seahawks. I am a servant to my cat, Frankie, who yes, will eat anything and everything in sight … even wedding cookies. | November 6, 2025 1:00 AM
The event may be fun, but the mission behind Harvest Valley Worship Center’s upcoming cornhole tournament will help area residents recovering from addiction through the Freedom House.
The tournament, set for noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, will be held at the James E. Russell Sports Center, 2016 Pine St., Sandpoint. There is no registration deadline.
The tournament features two divisions: Enthusiasts (competitive) at $50 per player and Dabblers (casual) at $25 per player. Cash prizes totaling more than $1,000 will be awarded.
A free tournament T-shirt will be given to the first 50 players who register.
In addition to the tournament, the event will feature a number of family-friendly activities, including a children’s play area by Ponder Play. A food truck will be on hand for those looking for a bite to eat.
A silent auction is also planned and will be held from noon to 3 p.m., with items ranging from airplane rides to gym memberships.
The tournament is raising funds for Freedom House, a Christ-centered organization that helps those battling addiction by providing safe and sober housing, biblical teaching and mentoring, and evidence-based recovery methods.
Freedom House operates two transitional housing programs in the Sandpoint area: Sweet Magnolia Women’s House and Bethesda Men’s House.
"The main objective of Freedom House, Inc. is to provide a loving and supportive Christian environment where these men have the opportunity to be set free from addiction through the teachings of Jesus Christ," Freedom House officials said on the organization's website.
Freedom House works with the Bonner County Drug Court program, with its two facilities offering safe and sober living for men and women from Bonner and Boundary counties as they recover from substance abuse through faith-based treatment.
Founded in 2016, the program grew out of a jail chaplaincy program at the Bonner County Jail. It is supported by a coalition of two Bonner County churches.
To register or donate auction items, visit hvwc.com/cornhole.
For questions about the tournament or Freedom House, contact Harvest Valley Worship Center at 208-263-2637.
ARTICLES BY CAROLINE LOBSINGER
Wellness fair puts focus on health
The Wellness & Connection Fair is bringing together local health and wellness professionals together in Sandpoint for a day of presentations, activities and community resources.
BCSD pays share of ISBT shortfall
District opts to make lump sum payment
Boundary County School District paid $217,000 to cover its share of the Idaho School Benefit Trust's $13 million shortfall.
Deadline extended for 'Valor' stories
The Valor publication is gathering photos, military service details and personal stories from Boundary County veterans and military families. Featured profiles highlight local service members' contributions, achievements and sacrifices across generations.