PROGRESS: Growth, momentum and possibilities defined PSNI last year

The dedicated staff at Panhandle Special Needs, Inc. never take their eyes off the goal of providing critical services that empower individuals with disabilities and support their families in Bonner and Boundary counties.

Starting in 1975 with a handful of clients to now serving over 200 clients with varying disabilities, PSNI has not only grown but has helped the disabled community prosper. 

“This year we expanded our team by three staff members while welcoming new participants across all of our programs,” Executive Director Trinity Nicholson said. “We supported individuals in independent living, adult day services, center-based employment, and community jobs—creating real opportunities for independence, dignity, and purpose. Our recycling and employment programs also continued to grow, benefiting both our clients and local businesses.”

The numbers are impressive. PSNI added eight new independent living skills clients, five new adult day clients, and fifteen clients are now thriving independently in their own apartments. The cardboard recycling program added eight new pickup customers bringing the total to ninety local businesses who benefit from this service, reducing waste in the landfills and protecting the environment.

“In our center-based workshop, three new clients gained employment, and we helped twenty-two clients secure and maintain jobs in the community,” Nicholson said.

Nicholson and her staff don’t stop to pat themselves on the back, however. Starting last year and going forward is the huge undertaking of moving the campus across the street from its current location at 1424 N. Boyer.

“With our lease ending in 2033 and the city’s plans requiring us to relocate, the timeline for this project is firm,” she explained. “In December 2023, we took a decisive step by purchasing 2.4 acres of land directly across the street from our current location. Since then, we have partnered with architect Reid Weber of North Root Architecture to design a 29,000-square-foot campus that will allow us to expand services, improve accessibility, and create a true hub for support and opportunity.

“We are currently in the silent phase of our capital campaign, working toward a $7.3 million goal. Since the release of our strategic plan in 2024, we have now raised $1 million for the project and are hopeful to begin phased implementation by 2029.”

Fundraising efforts run the gamut from large donor appeals to local, individual supporters. Upcoming events include: 

• Saturday, May 2: PSNI Greenhouse Opening Day and Community Appreciation Carnival. This family friendly event will be held at PSNI’s campus from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will have activities and refreshments for all age groups. 

• May 4 through May 7: Giving Week with Idaho Gives and Live Give 7B. “This special week is an opportunity for our community to come together in support of local nonprofits making a difference every day,” Nicholson said. “Supporters can give by visiting IdahoGives.org, searching for PSNI, and making a quick, secure online donation.”

• Thursday, May 7: The public is invited to join PSNI at Smokesmith Barbeque, 102 S. Boyer Avenue, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. to celebrate the end of Idaho Gives and Live Give 7B.

“There will be live music, giveaways, Greenhouse baskets for purchase, and so much more. I look forward to seeing you there,” Nicholson said.

In conclusion she said, “I want readers to know that every donation – no matter the size – directly supports the programs and services our clients and families rely on and helps us continue growing to meet the needs of our community.”

To learn more about Panhandle Special Needs, Inc. or to make a donation, go to their website, www.panhandlespecialneeds.org.