2026 STATE OF THE VALLEY

Solving the Civility Crisis and launching “The Year of Civility and Connection.”

Blaine County Charitable Fund

The 7th Annual State of the Valley Community Forum: Solving the Civility Crisis

was held on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

7th annual State of the Valley

Solving the Civility Crisis

Across the Wood River Valley — and the country — many of us are feeling the strain of rising polarization, diminished trust, and a growing inability to engage across differences. This year’s State of the Valley is designed to be a thoughtful, community-centered conversation about how we got here — and how we move forward together.

We are honored to welcome a diverse panel of local leaders, educators, advocates, and journalists who are deeply engaged in this work, including many of our past grantees:

Ryan Redman, Founder, Flourish Foundation
Michelle Stennett, (D) Former State Senator for Blaine County
Chenele Dixon, (R) Former State Representative for Southern Idaho; Founder, Idaho Solutions
Pam Morris, Mountain Express Editor
Mark Davidson, Executive Director, Blaine County Recreation District
Elle Davis, Junior, Wood River High School
Santiago Rico, Senior, Wood River High School
Karissa Price Rico, Wood River Women’s Foundation Board Member (Moderator)

This event is intentionally framed as a kickoff to a year-long series of community conversations across the Valley — in partnership with organizations such as The Community Library, local faith communities, and recreation and civic groups — all focused on rebuilding connection, respect, and shared responsibility.
In addition to panel dialogue, the evening will include a short interactive experience designed to help attendees connect with one another around what we love about living here — and what’s worth protecting.
We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful conversation and help set the tone for a more connected year ahead.

WRWF is proud to support continued improvements in Blaine County and beyond!

5th annual State of the Valley

Panel Moderator

Wendy Jaquet – Former Idaho State Representative

Panelists

Aaron Bronson – The Space, Executive Director

Jim Foudy – Blaine County Schools, Superintendent

Kathryn Ivers – Wood River Early Learning Collaborative, Project Director

Laura Rose Lewis – Far + Wise, Executive Director

WRWF is proud to support continued improvements in Blaine County!