FAST FIVE Lindsay Patterson creates spaces for belonging (and spectacular soups!)

Meet Lindsay Patterson, the executive director of Specialized Needs Recreation, where she has led the organization for the past six years.

With a passion for creating spaces of belonging, Lindsay oversees programs that serve hundreds of individuals with disabilities and their families throughout North Idaho. Known as a connector and community builder, she is equally at home planning fundraisers as she is entertaining friends, enjoying lake time or perfecting her soup recipes. Lindsay and her husband, David, are raising their two boys in Coeur d’Alene, where family and community remain at the heart of everything she does. Under her leadership, SNR continues its 41-year legacy of ensuring that every individual has the chance to thrive, connect and belong. Info: snridaho.org

1) What is your role with Specialized Needs Recreation?

I serve as the executive director of Specialized Needs Recreation, a nonprofit that has been serving our community for 41 years. For the past six years, I’ve had the privilege of leading this incredible organization — overseeing programs, building partnerships and ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to meaningful opportunities for recreation, friendship and belonging.

2) What drew you to working with the disability community and what do you love about it?

I have always believed that everyone deserves a place where they feel valued, included and celebrated for exactly who they are. The disability community embodies joy and resilience in such a beautiful way. What I love most is seeing participants thrive independently — whether it’s a child enjoying summer camp or an adult who attends our programs five days a week and finds purpose, connection and routine. Those moments remind me every day why this work matters so deeply.

3) What big events and activities does SNR have coming up?

This fall we’re excited for our annual Gems & Jeans Auction on Sept. 25, our biggest fundraiser of the year. We also have some favorite traditions returning, including our Halloween dance and trunk or treat Oct. 24, our Christmas party in December and our prom in April. These events bring together participants of all ages and abilities and are made possible by the incredible volunteers who support them. In addition, our Adult Life Group, Evening Group, Youth Camp All-Stars and SNR Sports keep participants engaged and connected year-round.

4) What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

Outside of SNR, I’m a bit of a homebody who loves lake time, puzzles and cooking. I enjoy planning gatherings that bring people together and have always been a people connector. One of my favorite ways to show that is through food — and I'm excited that soup season is upon us, because soup is one of my favorite things to cook. 

5) Why is an organization like SNR so important for participants, their families and for our community as a whole?

SNR is so much more than activities — it’s about connection, confidence and belonging. For participants, it’s a safe place where friendships are built and joy is found. For families, it provides peace of mind knowing their loved ones are not just included but celebrated. And for our community, SNR is a reminder that when we create inclusive spaces, we all grow stronger together. As we like to say: You are enough. You are strong. You matter. You belong.

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Do you know someone in Kootenai County who makes our community awesome? Send Fast Five suggestions to Devin Weeks, [email protected], to highlight locals who contribute their time and talents to make North Idaho such a special place.