As many of you know, I have been serving on the grant committee for the Wood River Women’s Foundation for close to 10 years. The Foundation analyzes around 50 grants per ‘season’ and awards 15-20 grants per cycle. The work happening behind the scenes to support our Valley’s nonprofits is a thoughtful and thorough process.
One of this year’s grant recipients I am especially excited to highlight is: The SPACE.
A Hub for Learning in the Wood River Valley
Founded six years ago, The Space was created as a community hub where skilled educators provide personalized tutoring and innovative after-school and summer programming for middle and high school students.
Over time, it has become the place students go when they need:
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Focused tutoring
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A quiet, supportive study environment
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Encouragement and accountability
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Connection
What began as a strong idea has grown into a trusted educational anchor in the Wood River Valley.
Filling a Critical Gap
The Space has already made a significant impact locally. An early grant helped launch the Forward Learning Scholar program, which has grown to support more than 30 students.
But they didn’t stop there.
They identified a growing and often overlooked group of students:
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Those enrolled in online high school programs
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Homeschool students
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Students pursuing their GED independently
As virtual education continues to expand across Idaho, many of these students are navigating their academic journey largely alone without structure, oversight, or meaningful support.
The SPACE is stepping in to change that.
Alternative Educational Pathways
Through their new Alternative Educational Pathways initiative, The SPACE will provide structured, in-person support for students pursuing non-traditional education tracks.
This includes:
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GED test preparation
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Academic tutoring
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Counseling and mentorship
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Dedicated space for focused study
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Additional resources and supplies
Most importantly, it offers something many online learners lack: community and accountability.
All students served through this program are located right here in the Wood River Valley, and the initiative is designed to expand support to an additional 15 - 20 high school students who might otherwise fall through the cracks.
Collaboration, Not Competition
Another reason this organization stands out is its commitment to collaboration. The SPACE works alongside local partners including:
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Blaine County Education Foundation
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Blaine County Probation Office
They also participate in a monthly Youth Collaborative to ensure educational nonprofits in our Valley are working together, not duplicating efforts.
It’s thoughtful, strategic, and deeply aligned with the spirit of our community.
Why This Matters
In real estate, I often talk about investing in the long-term vitality of the Wood River Valley. Education is a cornerstone of that vitality. Organizations like The SPACE are not just helping individual students succeed, they are strengthening the future of our entire community. I am honored to support their work through my role with the Wood River Women’s Foundation and even more proud to share their story here. If you have a student who could benefit, or if you simply want to better understand the incredible work happening quietly in our Valley, I encourage you to learn more and get involved. Explore The SPACE here.
- Corey
