CREC hosting Kentucky Derby watch party, fundraiser

The Community Resource EnVision Center is inviting the community to don their finest hats as they enjoy the "Race for the Roses” at a May 2 Kentucky Derby watch party and fundraiser. The event takes place from noon to 5 p.m. at The Hive, 207 N. First Ave.

The event, for those 21 and older, blends the excitement of the Kentucky Derby with a vibrant community fundraiser that supports local individuals and families in need, said Katie Begalke, the EnVision Center’s executive director. Festivities will include big‑screen race viewing, festive games and a variety of Derby‑inspired experiences designed to create an engaging and welcoming atmosphere.

New this year, general admission is free, making the event more accessible than ever and encouraging broad community participation.

Guests can look forward to a full slate of Derby Day activities throughout the afternoon, including multiple horse races, "best hat" and "best dressed" contests, a bourbon tasting experience, and two interactive cake walks. The event will also feature a dessert silent auction highlighting local bakers and businesses, a Southern‑style potluck with guests encouraged to bring a side dish, and a playful Jell‑O mold showdown that adds to the festive spirit.

For those seeking an elevated experience, a limited number of all‑inclusive VIP tickets are available for $100. VIP guests receive entry into all races and activities, access to exclusive spaces and a seamless Derby Day experience.

Local Partnerships Elevate the Experience

This year’s event is enhanced through partnerships with Up North Distillery and The Bee’s Knees Whiskey Bar of Hayden, which will bring their expertise and signature flair to the bourbon tasting experience and Derby‑inspired cocktails.

The EnVision Center is also collaborating with Barrel 33, which will host a Derby‑themed wine event earlier in the day. Attendees are encouraged to make a full day of it by starting at Barrel 33 and continuing the celebration at The Hive, highlighting collaboration among local businesses and creating a more connected Derby Day experience in Sandpoint.

Celebrating Local Flavor

The event will showcase the creativity and generosity of local dessert donors, including Yoke’s Fresh Market, Super 1 Foods, Winter Ridge Natural Foods, The Pie Hut, Marigold Bistro, Jessie Novak, Lori Scott and Jan Neil. Their contributions will be featured in the dessert silent auction and cake walk festivities.

In addition, more than a dozen desserts have been donated by local restaurants and bakers, along with a variety of prizes. Contributions include offerings from Wildflower Spa, SpringHill Suites, a cookie‑decorating class from Sawyers, and a bespoke hat party by Tinsel and Table. A local artist will also create caricatures of guests in their Derby Day attire.

Supporting a Growing Community Need

Proceeds from the event directly benefit the Community Resource EnVision Center and its mission to empower individuals and families through connection, service and support.

In the past year, the EnVision Center served 823 individuals, representing a 53% increase from the previous year, and addressed 957 critical needs. Those services included housing support, food access, health care navigation, employment assistance and other essential resources. The organization also welcomed a significant number of new clients, with 71% accessing services for the first time, underscoring the growing demand for coordinated community support.

“As our community continues to grow, so does the need for accessible, coordinated support,” Begalke said. “This event brings people together in a joyful, engaging way while directly supporting neighbors who need it most.”