Fairwinds event to help family with ill child

The idea started when Fairwinds-Coeur d’Alene Manager Julie Tastad wanted to thank the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department for their years of outstanding service to Fairwinds residents and staff.

“The consideration they have shown residents over the years has been phenomenal,” says Tastad.

“In addition to responding to various health-related calls at our location many times over the years last spring the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department was first on the scene to locate and shut off the water when nearby construction breached a water main.”

According to Tastad, the Fire Department proceeded to evaluate building systems, provide assistance to residents, and oversee the removal of nearly four feet of water, and it was just another way that firefighters continue to “go above and beyond.”

Fairwinds is hosting a benefit/raffle and free family barbecue on Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. The community is invited to attend.

Tastad says she originally thought the proceeds of a benefit/raffle and barbecue would raise funds for a piece of equipment, but department officials had a better suggestion.

“As always, their nature is to put people first,” says Tastad. “They suggested that the proceeds of a benefit/raffle go toward a Fire Department family that needs assistance with medical bills for their critically ill child.”

Fairwinds, at 2340 W. Seltice Way, just west of the Northwest Boulevard interchange and the Holiday Inn Express, is owned by Leisure Care Retirement Communities, and has 131 independent and assisted-living apartments.

Fairwinds’ residents and staff are hoping that the community will support the cause by purchasing raffle tickets for a chance to win a trip for two to the Palm Springs Spa Resort Casino.

Tickets are $10 each and the prize includes airfare, three hotel nights, round-trip transfers between the airport and hotel, two buffet breakfasts and two buffet dinners.

The raffle winners will be announced at the barbecue, and ticket holders need not be present to win. Fairwinds is covering the cost of the barbecue and the trip.

Other events at the barbecue will include tours of the firetrucks and emergency vehicles, and attendees will be able to dance to the country western tunes of the Kootenai County Kickers.

“It is not just the responders, but also the staff and families behind the scenes who deserve our thanks,” says Tastad. “They are amazing people.”