September 2026 Newsbriefs

• Resource Directory data compiled for fire resources
• Shalom Ministries seeks new venue for meals
• Veterans For Peace marks Hiroshima Day
• Bishop, environmentalist discuss solar
• Spokane River faces climate crisis - September 3
• Ecumenical potluck held in Genesee, Idaho - September 20
• Parish hosts service for St. Francis' 800th - Oct 3
• Fig Tree receives Holy Names grant
• PJALS plans party and annual benefit - September 9 and October 14
• Habitat-Spokane launches recovery fund
• Helpers Network reaches out to fire victims
• Women/ChildrenFR cancels fundraiser to feed neighbors affected by fires
• SCC starts nursing program in Colville
• Gonzaga offers AI Transformation Program - September 10-11
• ICF Report reveals how essential nonprofits are

Resource Directory compiles fire resources

The Fig Tree 2026-27 Resource Directory enters its 53rd year as the go-to guide, a much-used comprehensive compilation of congregations, ecumenical and interfaith ministries, human services, children-and-family, health care, senior, justice multicultural, environmental, arts and culture, and civic resources.

Selected resources were included in a short-term PDF guide after the Spokane Complex at thefigtree.org/directory.html. The Fig Tree published 20,000 copies—fewer than in 2025 because of rising costs—with support from rfaith communities, agencies, more than 125 advertisers and 23 community partners.

 About 3,500 copies were mailed and the rest distributed in bulk to faith organizations and agencies by 25 volunteers. Resource Directory editor, Malcolm Haworth, distributed 100s of copies of the full directory to emergency shelters and resource centers after the fires.

The Resource Directory helps service providers direct people in need to resources that can change their lives. Agencies appreciate this service, so their staff do not need to do the research resources for referral. Staff and volunteers also give directories to clients as a self-help tool, connecting them in times of need to services and in times of stability to volunteer or work opportunities.

"When people lack access to the internet or the power is out, print copy can be a lifeline for people," said Malcolm.

"We seek to raise up to $10,000 beyond our budgeted $67,000 so we can print up to 5,000 more copies, because we gave out so many to fire survivors," said Marijke Fakasiieiki, development and editorial associate. "Innovia Foundation has given an additional $2,000 toward the $8,000."

For information, call email info@thefigtree.org or visit thefigtree.org/directory.html

Shalom Ministries seeks new venue for meals

Shalom Ministries is reimagining how to serve Spokane after receiving notice that it will no longer be able to serve food and provide services to the unhoused and hungry at its current location starting Sept. 30.

Shalom Ministries has provided daily meals, clothing and essential services based at this location, the basement of the church located at 518 W 3rd Ave. for 32 years. The building, originally owned by Central United Methodist Church and then acquired by the New Community Church, was recently purchased by Zeal Church.

In 2025, the ministry served more than 80,000 meals and continued to serve the same numbers during 2026.

In addition to meals, Shalom and its partners have facilitated the distribution of clothing, medical care through CHAS, health services through the Spokane County Health District and the WSU medical school and nursing programs and partnered with several other organizations helping the unhoused and hungry.

For the last two years Shalom volunteers sponsored the Connections Poetry Workshop for its diners and local poets, and the workshop is in the process of publishing a collection of poems written by participants in this workshop.

The Shalom Ministries Board is seeking options to relocate its services. Because of the costs and time needed to relocate, the ministry shut down temporarily, and served its last meal August 20.

They will keep their diners, volunteers and supporters updated as they continue their search for a new location.

For information, email shalommeals@gmail.com, visit facebook.com/shalomdiningwithdignity or shalommeal.org.

Veterans For Peace marks Hiroshima Day

Remembering Hiroshima: Empathy and Nuclear War event hosted by Spokane Veterans For Peace was held at 7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 6, in the Community-Building Lobby, 35 W. Main Ave.

The keynote was given by Sean Chabot, Eastern Washington University professor of sociology.

Spokane Raging Grannies shared music.

For information, call 209-2385.

Bishop, environmentalist discuss solar

"Solar for the Good of the World" is an EcoFaith Conversation, featuring Northwest Intermountain Synod ELCA Bishop Meggan Manlove and environmentalist and author Bill McKibben, at 3 p.m. (Pacific time), Thursday, Sept. 3, on Zoom.

They will talk about the biggest thing shaping the future of humanity: the sun. They will discuss how solar has a place in homes, churches and communities through the lens of faith and seeing all energy as a sacred gift.

For information and to register, email EcoFaithNWIM@gmail.com

Spokane River faces climate crisis

The Spokane River is facing another climate-driven crisis along with the wildfires as portions of it are once again running dry, increasing the harm to fish, wildlife and critical river habitat, said Katelyn Scott, water protector. Portions of the river were dry for nearly a month until the Post Falls Dam increases releases after Labor Day.

"The Spokane River, the lifeblood of this region, is running dry. It is another devastating reminder of what a hotter, drier climate looks like," said Katelyn. "We must take immediate action."

Spokane Riverkeeper monitors flows downstream from Barker Rd. with the Spokane Community College Water Resources program to document impacts. Along this reach, the Spokane River water seeps through the riverbed into the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer.

"We need to change how we manage and conserve water, not treat it as normal," she said.

A rally for Spokane River Flows will be held from 4 to 6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 3, at the Centennial Trail Barker Rd. Trailhead, North Barker Rd. in Spokane Valley. It's an opportunity to see low flows firsthand and learn why protecting the river's future depends on protecting its flow. Participants will gather near Barker Road, march along the Centennial Trail into the dry reach of the Spokane River. There will be speakers along the way.

Spokane Riverkeeper will share what needs to happen to protect the river and how community members can take action.

For information, email katy@spokaneriverkeeper.org or visit spokaneriverkeeper.org/river-conservation

Ecumenical potluck held in Genesee, Idaho

Palouse and Tseminicum Clusters will gather for an Ecumenical Potluck from 2 to 5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 20, at St. John Lutheran Church, 648 W. Ash in Genesee, Idaho.

This is a chance to meet folks from other area Evangelical Lutheran Churches in America churches and those in communion partnership with Lutherans—the Episcopal Church, Presbyterian Church (USA), United Methodist Church, United Church of Christ, Reformed Church in America and The Moravian Church.

The potluck will also include neighboring Catholic and Community churches in Genesee with whom the churches serve the community.

The program will share how the Inspire Craft Group promotes love, connection and support.

For information, call 208-285-1719.

Parish hosts service for St. Francis' 800th

St. Francis of Assisi Parish will host a Transitus Prayer Service to celebrate the 800th Jubilee Year of St. Francis of Assisi at 7 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 3, at 1104 W. Heroy.

The anniversary celebration has been proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV, said Sr. Sharon Bongiorno of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration.

For information, email sbongiorno@fspa.org

Fig Tree receives Holy Names grant

Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary of the U.S. Ontario Province have awarded The Fig Tree a ministry grant of $5,000 for 2026 and 2027.

This year, 32 programs receive a total of $146,825 in Ministry Grants and eight programs receive a total of $128,170 in Immigrant and Refugee Fund Grants.

"We are truly encouraged by the connection to the SNJM values and charism reflected in your request," said Sr. Linda Patrick, SNJM, of the Province Leadership Team. "The work you are doing matters, and we are grateful for the opportunity to support The Fig Tree in serving the people and communities who count on you.

"Thank you for the meaningful work you do in serving others. Your care, commitment and steadfast presence make a lasting difference in the lives of those you serve," she added, noting that the Sisters of the Holy Names have ministered to the most vulnerable in society since 1843.

The Sisters of the Holy Names have been involved in The Fig Tree since Holy Names Sister Bernadine in 1984, who died in 2007, co-founded The Fig Tree in 1984 with Mary Stamp, who continues as editor and publisher.

Ruth Safranek, a Holy Names associate and a regular Fig Tree volunteer with mailing, submitted the grant. In addition, Sr. Catherine Ferguson also continues the SNJM presence as an editor, writer, board member and development committee member.

"We value our ongoing partnership with the Sisters of the Holy Names that helps support training in The Fig Tree's peace and solutions journalism, internships with college students and support as a Resource Directory community partner," said Mary.

 "We connect with the SNJM mission of educating people as we share stories of people who live their faith and values and build understanding to inspire people to advocate for justice, promote peace and care for creation," she added. "We cover stories that break through divisions other media and politicians foster to maintain power."

For information, call 509-535-1813 or visit thefigtree.org

PJALS plans party and annual benefit

The Peace and Justice Action League of Spokane (PJALS) will host its Community Spirit Appreciation Party from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 9, at Finch Arboretum Woodland Center to show its appreciation for its members and to gather them to strengthen relationships.

"Members are why the PJALS community has been a steadfast part of the movement for peace and justice," said Shar Lichty, development director.

PJALS will hold its 11th Annual Benefit beginning at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 14, in Spokane Valley (location will be sent to those who register), an evening event to increase accessibility.

The theme "People Power: Shaping Our Future Together" will focus on a shared vision for PJALS' future.

As it seeks at this event to increase its capacity and funds to sustain its work, Shar said that "PJALS believes everyday people can accomplish extraordinary things together. For 50 years, we have organized for racial equity, economic justice, peace and human rights to build a multi-racial, intergenerational, all-gender, rural-urban, bottom-up movement centered on the leadership of impacted people."

Guests will learn how PJALS strengthens people to join in strategic action that exposes and transforms systems of hate, violence, exclusion and oppression to build a just future.

For information, email slichty@pjals.org or visit pjals.org

Habitat-Spokane launches recovery fund

Habitat for Humanity–Spokane is launching the ReBUILD Spokane Wildfire Recovery Fund, a community investment in long-term housing recovery that will follow the recent wildfire emergency.

The fund will support planning, partnerships and resources for long-term housing recovery as community needs become clearer.

During the emergency response, Habitat-Spokane focused on preparing for the housing recovery that follows, coordinating with community, municipal, county, state, regional and Habitat for Humanity International partners to understand emerging needs and determine where Habitat housing expertise can have the greatest impact.

Long-term housing recovery requires preparation, coordination and resources before rebuilding opportunities emerge.

The ReBUILD Spokane Wildfire Recovery Fund strengthens Habitat's housing mission by preparing the organization to respond to long-term community recovery needs.

Habitat-Spokane is preparing so the region has additional housing capacity as recovery moves from emergency needs toward repair, rebuilding and permanent housing solutions.

For information, visit habitat-spokane.org/rebuild-spokane and follow @HabitatSpokane on Facebook.

Helpers Network reaches out to fire victims

The Spokane Helpers Network, which does free food delivery on an ongoing basis, is offering its delivery services to those impacted by the fires.

Its volunteers are taking its services to homes, apartments, RV campgrounds, trailer parks and hotels.

They have streamlined their application on their website for those who select "help for fire victims."

Spokane Helpers Network offer nonperishable food bags, nonperishable meal kits, hygiene kits, kids snack bags and bus fare.

For information, visit spokanehelpersnetwork.org.

KYRS station manager plans to retire

KYRS Thin Air Community Radio announces retirement of Michael Moon Bear, station manager. KYRS, Spokane's volunteer-run, non-commercial, nonprofit community station, offers programs for unserved and underserved populations in Eastern Washington and the Idaho Panhandle on 88.1 & 92.3 FM and streaming 24/7 at KYRS.org.

It provides news, views, culture and music other media overlook as it seeks to empower people, especially ethnic minorities, low-income and other marginalized groups, to strive for a more just, sustainable world.

Michael has been station manager in a time of growth in local programs and community partnerships. The station increased local music and public affairs.

He also helped relocate the studio to the Central Library in downtown Spokane, launched the Get LOUD in the Library concert series, expanded multicultural programming, saw growth in community fundraising and hosted the 2025 Grassroots Radio Conference, welcoming community broadcasters from across the U.S.

Michael also was underwriting coordinator, program director and host of the radio show "Around the World with Michael Moon Bear" since 2004.

"KYRS belongs to the volunteers, programmers, listeners, donors and community partners who have built it. I look forward to watching the next generation continue this work," he said.

The KYRS Board of Directors appointed Dana Matthews as interim station manager while it does a search.

For information, call 747-3012, or email office@kyrs.org.

WCFR cancels fundraiser to feed neighbors affected by fires

Women and Children's Free Restaurant (WCFR) canceled its fall fundraiser, Dinner on the Plaza, to turn their attention to neighbors affected by the Spokane Complex fires.

They are grateful to those who gave them $25,000 to match donations and double their support.

"It's a heartening how our business community shows up for our neighbors in difficult times," said Lisa Diffley, executive director. "In late August, we were preparing dinners for up to 500 additional families each week, ready for easy pickup by drive-up or walk-up. Soon, we'll restock our grocery offerings, so families can fill their kitchens again. We plan to increase our services for as long as our neighbors need us," she said, grateful for the donations that make that possible.

For information, visit wcfrspokane.org.

SCC starts nursing program in Colville

Spokane Community College (SCC) is starting the first cohort of students in its practical nursing certificate program at its Colville campus, expanding access to nursing education for students in Stevens County and surrounding communities.

Louis Kaplan, SCC associate dean of nursing, said the practical nursing program is the fastest way to becoming a practicing nurse.

Applications for winter quarter cohort starting Jan. 5 are open through Sept. 15. The program also offers a summer quarter start, with applications opening Jan. 15 and closing March 1.

The Colville site will provide four students per cohort an opportunity to do the certificate close to home to prepare for careers as licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

Spokane Community College President Jenni Martin said healthcare employers throughout the region are looking for skilled nurses. Expanding opportunities for students means more people can pursue careers without leaving their communities.

"Many rural communities face significant challenges in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals," said Colville-based Katie Kleinhesselink, dean of rural education at SCC.

For information, visit scc.spokane.edu.

Gonzaga offers AI Transformation Program

Gonzaga launches a first-of-its-kind AI Transformation Program for Inland Northwest organizations to build durable, self-managed AI capability to adopt AI responsibly.

The Executive AI Think Tank at a Glance from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10, and 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 11, at Gonzaga University is an entry to GU's 18-month Organizational AI Transformation Program research cohort for executives and leaders of 20 organizations.

The program is led by GU's Institute for Informatics and Applied Technology and its Center for Lifelong Learning with AI transformation experts Gena Hoxha and Alex Stanton of Think Purple.

They combine applied technology, ethical AI, cybersecurity, leadership and human-centered education with real-world organizational experience.

The cohort helps leaders move beyond AI experimentation to build leadership, governance, workforce trust and operating capacity for AI transformation.

"AI transformation is about more than technology," said Shanchieh Jay Yang, Reisenauer family director of Gonzaga's Institute for Informatics and Applied Technology. "Organizations must align process with mission and equip people with a sustainable support structure to continue learning, adapting and governing these technologies as they evolve to move from curiosity to capability, and experimentation to responsible, sustained transformation.

"Gonzaga regularly hears from corporate leaders seeking guidance to help their organizations build capacity to use AI strategically and responsibly," said Rachelle Strawther, founding director of Gonzaga's Center for Lifelong Learning.

For information, visit gonzaga.edu/center-for-lifelong-learning/professional-development/business/executive-ai-think-tank

ICF Report reveals how essential nonprofits are

The 2026 State of the Sector Report of Idaho Community Foundation (ICF) shows nonprofits are essential to strengthen communities, support families and drive the state's economy yet, they struggle to meet growing demand as funding is uncertain.

The report says Idaho nonprofits employ more than 81,000 people, contribute $8.1 billion to the gross state product and are the state's fifth-largest private sector employer, but many organizations are stretched beyond capacity.

According to the report, 51 percent of Idaho nonprofits served more people in 2025 than the year before; 63 percent anticipated demand for services will continue to increase; 51 percent were unable to fully meet demand for their services in 2025; 43 percent drew on cash reserves to cover operating costs and an estimated $200 million capacity gap exists between the services Idaho nonprofits provide and the needs of communities across the state.

"Nonprofits are woven into nearly every aspect of life in Idaho," said Kevin Bailey, ICF's vice president at the Impact and Nonprofit Center. "They help families access healthcare, housing, food, education, recreation, arts, culture and countless other services. The report shows the tremendous value they bring and the challenges they face."

It also examines the "philanthropic gap"—government funding supports nearly $400 million a year in nonprofit-delivered services in Idaho. As public funding is less predictable, philanthropy is a critical source of support, but current giving alone is unlikely to replace funding losses.

The ICF helps Idahoans invest in people, places and causes they care about.  The report is at idahocf.org/state-of-the-sector.

For information, email info@idahocf.org or visit idahocf.org.