FAST FIVE: Lisa Schaff: 'Our vote is our power'

Meet Lisa Schaff, a Coeur d’Alene resident of 12 years who has been a member of the League of Women Voters of Kootenai County since 2016. Lisa would tell you that compassion and empathy are the core emotions that drive her to work for the League. Fairness, truth and civil democracy are at the forefront of her values. As a retiree, she finds purpose in living here in Kootenai County making a difference by volunteering with local civic organizations.

Humble beginnings with parents who struggled with low-paying jobs influenced Lisa's independent nature starting in early childhood. Born in Tacoma, first raised near the Asarco copper smelter in Ruston, Wash., she recalls adventures tromping all about Point Defiance Park from capturing pollywogs in the Japanese garden to beachcombing for shells under the once abundant seaweed bull kelp that covered the sands of Owen Beach. This is where her fascination with gardens, forests and aquatic animals bloomed. Lisa always appreciated kindness of others, from good public education to being fostered by a family still held dearly. These experiences developed her self-sufficiency from age 18 that opened her heart to others who were doing their best to make their way, too.