Community leaders gather to address polarization, trust, and civil discourse in the Wood River Valley.
The Wood River Women’s Foundation (WRWF) will host its annual State of the Valley event on February 5, 2026 convening together community leaders, advocates, educators, and residents for a timely public conversation titled “Solving the Civility Crisis.”
As communities nationwide grapple with increasing polarization and breakdowns in civil discourse, this year’s event will explore how these dynamics are showing up locally — and what individuals, institutions, and organizations can do to foster respectful, constructive engagement.
The event is designed not only as a conversation, but as a launch point for a year-long series of community dialogues hosted by partner organizations throughout the Valley, including libraries, faith communities, as well as civic and recreation groups.
“This year’s State of the Valley reflects what we’re hearing from so many in our community — a desire to reconnect, to listen more deeply, and to remember what we share,” said Karissa Price Rico, WRWF Education Committee Chair. “Civility isn’t about agreement. It’s about learning how to stay in relationship, even when we differ.”
The program will include an interactive audience component intended to encourage connection among attendees and highlight shared values rooted in life in the Wood River Valley.
Event Details:
Date: February 5, 2026
Time: 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Wood River High School and via Zoom
Admission: Free
Media are invited to attend and cover the event. Advance registration is
encouraged.
For more information about the Wood River Women’s Foundation and the State of the Valley event, visit https://woodriverwomensfoundation.org/state-of-the-valley/.
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