FAST FIVE Fostering civic pride with Jim Koester

Meet Jim Koester, P1FCU Business Services Relationship Officer and Manager of the Post Falls Lending Center.

1) When and why did you get involved with the River City Leadership Academy?

I was encouraged to apply for RCLA by several Chamber members who were alumni of the program. I’m so glad I did! Being from Southern Idaho and living in Moscow after attending the University of Idaho, RCLA allowed me to make connections with professionals in the area that I otherwise wouldn’t have after I moved to Kootenai County. I’ve volunteered on the RCLA Committee since graduation in 2020. It’s rewarding to help improve the experience of the current participants.

2) What purpose does the academy serve, and how does it benefit the Post Falls community?

Over the course of 10 months, RCLA offers a themed “Discovery Day” where participants tour local businesses and organizations. For instance, this year on Manufacturing Day the RCLA class toured DOMA Coffee, Ground Force, StanCraft and many more businesses. A key component to RCLA is what it means to be a leader - for the past several years we have included eight hours of instruction on developing leadership skills. We encourage each RCLA Class to get engaged in the Post Falls community after graduation.

3) What are a few of the best aspects of working in Post Falls?

This Fall marks my fifth year working in Post Falls. I help businesses all over Idaho, Washington and Oregon, but it’s great to visit local businesses over lunch or an in-person meeting at their office. On any given summer weekend you can catch me floating the Spokane River, playing disc golf at Corbin Park or wine tasting. The recreational activities in Post Falls are stellar.

4) What's something people would be surprised to learn about you?

Most people don’t know about my country roots. My background in community service was ignited as a kid in 4-H. Raising cows and chickens taught me responsibility and the Know Your Government conference was my first glimpse of public service.

5) Why should people have civic pride, and why should they contribute their awesomeness to our community the way you do?

5) I think civic pride takes many forms. Do you donate your time, talent or dollars to a local non-profit or organization? I can bet they would appreciate your efforts. There are so many opportunities to give back to our community, whose missions benefit people in need. Sometimes you might encounter a situation where you think “I might not be the most skilled person to volunteer for this board position, but I’ll throw my name in the ring and do my best.” My challenge to anyone reading this is to give it your best shot.