Lifelong Learning
Starts Here
The Eureka Institute exists to cultivate, inspire and encourage people who endeavor to make the world better.
The Eureka Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization committed to
life-long learning and leadership through education, experiential and recreational programming.
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Our office is located in downtown Sandpoint, Idaho. The Eureka Center, our retreat center and event space, is located in nearby Sagle, Idaho. If you need directions to either location, click here.
We Bridge The Gap.
Our nonprofit organization is deeply committed to identifying and addressing critical needs within our community, striving to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. Through careful observation and engagement with community members, we identify community issues and create multifaceted programs aimed at bridging these gaps. From advocating for and establishing new bus stops in underserved areas to implementing comprehensive educational initiatives that empower youth with valuable construction skills, we actively work towards enhancing community resilience and self-sufficiency. Additionally, through partnerships with local organizations and volunteers, we operate food distribution initiatives that provide nourishment to individuals and families facing hunger. By addressing these fundamental needs, we strive to foster a more equitable and thriving community.
Our Guiding Principles
​Team Work
We are committed to bringing out the best in everyone by cooperatively working in a collaborative and coordinated manner through positive energy and intention.
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​Integrity
Adhering to ethical and moral standards with honesty and consideration for the entire organization, we focus on making the world a better place and treating others with dignity and respect.
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​Community Service
In consideration of our place in the greater community, we strive to enhance and expand the common good, acknowledging that service teaches us respect for ourselves and others.
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​Sustainability
We acknowledge the impact our actions have on the environment and are committed to improving our relationship with the planet and supporting long-term ecological balance.
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​Accountability
We strive to perform at our highest potential by meeting commitments and deadlines with the expectation others do the same.
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​Safety
We are dedicated to offering a safe and supportive environment that encourages exploration and cultivates growth.
Our Board of Directors
John Edwards
​President
​John has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Idaho's College of Forestry with a Major in Wild Land Recreation Management and a minor in Outdoor Recreation Leadership. He is a board member of the Rock Creek Alliance, a local environmental organization, and is founder and Vice President of Misty Mountain Furniture in Sandpoint, Idaho as well as Founder and Principal Organizer of Sandpoint SummerFest, a local music festival, now in its 18th year. He is an avid outdoor enthusiast, musician and community supporter and has been a North Idaho resident for 27 years.
Robb Tallbot
​Board Member
​Since receiving a B.S. in Social Sciences from Radford University, Robb has found his passion working in the education and outdoor industries, often combining the two. He has been a wilderness instructor in West Virginia, a summer adventure camp director for the City of Roanoke, public high school teacher, and he taught Social Studies at Northwest Academy right here in North Idaho. Currently, Robb is a full time Ski Patroller for Schweitzer Mountain and an instructor for Longleaf Wilderness Medicine in addition to being the owner/operator of Mattox Farm Productions based in Sandpoint. Robb currently serves on the Performing Arts Committee for the Pend Oreille Arts Council. In his free time he can be found searching for fresh snow to ski, mountain biking, or hiking with his wife and two dogs.
Brietta Leader
​Board Member
​Brietta is a teacher of dance in its many forms of healing, prayer, play and conditioning. She grew up as a dancer and discovered her path as a healing artist 16 years ago, while traveling in Asia. The combination of Brietta’s devotion to the dance, family roots & passion has birthed her own trademarked movement form called WildCore. Her years of study as a student of Soul Motion™ began to blend with 15 years as a Nia teacher, Massage Therapist, energy enthusiast & performer, all of which contributed to WildCore’s development. Brietta loves to inspire healing through movement and offers classes, workshops & co-creative retreats and performances for both kids and adults in her hometown of Sandpoint, Idaho.
Staff
Steve Holt
​Executive Director
Steve has been the owner of a Design/Build firm for 30 years and is passionate about architecture, building and community development. He has owned the Eureka Center for over 20 years and has transformed bare land into what it is today. Steve is also an environmental activist and was instrumental in the creation of the Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting water quality, and is currently President of the Board. As an outdoor enthusiast, he enjoys running, skiing, and fly-fishing!
Sandpoint, Idaho
Rand McNally's and USA Today's 'Most Beautiful Small Town in America' in 2011, Sandpoint's beauty extends far beyond the majestic landscape and recreational activities of its mountains and lakes. Many gifted artists, musicians, celebrities, and restaurateurs make their homes in this little paradise. The Rand McNally 'McNavigators' said the unofficial motto is "enjoy the great outdoors, connect with friends, and keep life simple." Explore Sandpoint and the surrounding area by visiting some of our partners and local organizations.
Directions
The Eureka Center is conveniently situated in the northwest and accessible. Technology can be helpful, but it's not foolproof. Some GPS systems and maps might not accurately locate The Center, and there's no cell service on-site. Therefore, it's important to follow the directions provided below and/or screenshot or bring a printed copy for your journey to avoid getting lost.
The Eureka Center
(Mountain Retreat/Event Space)
6162 Eureka Road
Sagle, Idaho 83860
From either the north or south, take Highway 95 to Sagle Road, which is around 6 miles south of Sandpoint. Look for signs directing you to Garfield Bay. Then, head east on Sagle Road for 11 miles, ensuring to bear left at the two Y intersections along the way. Once you reach Eureka Road on the left, continue straight (as Sagle Road veers right). After just 50 yards on Eureka Road, you'll find our driveway on the left, marked with the address 6162 on the mailbox.
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If you have any questions, feel free to call us anytime for clarification. If you get lost, you can find cell service at Garfield or Bottle Bay. Once you're there, give us a call at 208-263-2217.
We want to thank Stan Petersen, Patrick Orton, Lance Ross, and Kirk Miller for the photos that they contributed to our website. Thank you!