JUNE NIBJ: NIA - Women of Impact ready for summer and beyond

May in North Idaho had a rhythm all its own. It arrived with blooming lilacs, longer lake days, and a renewed energy that sweeps across our communities. It was also a month rich with meaning — celebrating mothers, honoring sacrifice through Memorial Day, and recognizing the remarkable role women continue to play in shaping our homes, businesses, and communities.

Mother’s Day has been nationally celebrated since 1914, but Idaho women have been creating impact long before then. Throughout North Idaho’s history, women have helped build schools, businesses, nonprofits, churches, civic groups, and strong families that continue to shape our region today. From pioneering homesteaders to today’s entrepreneurs and community leaders, Idaho women embody resilience, innovation, and heart.

In Coeur d’Alene and throughout North Idaho, many women wear multiple hats every day — mothers, caregivers, executives, mentors, volunteers, and visionaries. The modern woman balances career, family, and community while continuing to inspire the next generation. May gives us the opportunity to pause and celebrate that extraordinary influence.

Then comes Memorial Day — another meaningful “M” in May. While often viewed as the gateway to summer, Memorial Day reminds us to honor those who served our country and the families who stood beside them. Many Idaho women historically stepped into leadership and workforce roles during wartime, helping keep businesses, farms, and communities moving forward while loved ones served overseas. Their strength and sacrifice remain part of Idaho’s legacy.

This spirit of connection, resilience, and community inspired this year’s 16th Annual Onward & Upward Women’s Conference on May 21 at the Kroc Center in Coeur d’Alene. This year’s theme, The Power of Presence, reflects something increasingly valuable in today’s fast-moving world: authentic relationships, meaningful conversations, and real human connection — because truly, real relationships happen in the room. It was very cool to be in the room with all the amazing women who attended this year!

As we slide into North Idaho’s spectacular summer season, NIA Women of IMPACT is excited to continue building community through new partnerships and experiences. This summer, NIA is partnering with Abundance Rhythm to bring women together through movement, dance, wellness, expression, and connection. From energizing dance fitness classes to exciting travel experiences and community gatherings, Abundance Rhythm is designed to inspire women to move confidently through every season of life.

Summer in North Idaho offers endless opportunities to connect — from lake adventures and farmers markets to outdoor concerts, hiking trails, networking events, and community celebrations. We invite women throughout the region to stay connected, get involved, and experience everything ahead.

Our Women of IMPACT Roundtable Series returns this September with fresh conversations, inspiring speakers, and exciting new opportunities for women in business and leadership.

Until then, here’s to a marvelous May — filled with gratitude, remembrance, movement, connection, and continued impact.

To learn more about upcoming events, conferences, classes, and collaborations, connect with Marilee and her teams at NIA Women of IMPACT and Abundance Rhythm at [email protected], or follow us on social media.