For more than three decades, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel has been more than a destination—it’s been a storyteller, a teacher, and a neighbor. From the intricate beadwork and artwork displayed throughout its resort to the heartfelt cultural programs offered throughout the year, every corner of the property reflects a deep respect for heritage and a commitment to community. As the Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s flagship enterprise, the casino’s success has always been measured by more than financial gain—it’s measured by the strength and well-being of the people it serves.
Sharing the Story Through Cultural Tourism
The Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s Cultural Tourism Program was born nearly a decade ago with a simple yet powerful goal: to share their story, in their own words. “Even today, there are still so many misconceptions about Native Americans and our tribe,” said Yvette Matt, Director of Marketing for Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel. “We realized early on that if anyone was going to tell our story, it should be us.”
Bobbie White, who works in the Cultural Tourism department, has helped lead the way with a blend of education and hands-on experiences. From moccasin-making and beaded jewelry workshops to guided hikes and eagle aviary tours, guests are invited to connect with the land and the people who have called it home for generations.
“When we host our classes, we don’t just talk about crafts or traditions—we talk about who we are,” said White. “By the end, people come up and say, ‘Wow, I didn’t know that about your tribe.’ Those are the moments that matter most.”
Majestic Encounters: The Eagle Aviary
Among the most moving experiences offered through Coeur d’Alene Casino’s Cultural Tourism program is the Eagle Aviary—a sanctuary for eagles that can never return to the wild. Opened in partnership with Birds of Prey Northwest, the aviary allows visitors a rare, up-close look at one of the most sacred animals in Native culture.
Guests learn about the eagle’s spiritual importance and how the tribe honors the birds that live there. “We don’t keep them for show,” explained Matt. “They’re family. They’re teachers.”
Through guided tours and storytelling, guests gain a deeper appreciation for how the Coeur d’Alene Tribe balances conservation with cultural preservation—a living example of reverence and responsibility.
Honoring Community Through Winter Blessing
Each November, as part of Native American Heritage Month, the casino hosts its annual Winter Blessing celebration—a season-long tradition that captures the true spirit of giving. Now in its 15th year, the event brings together tribal members, employees, and guests to honor the community and celebrate the power of generosity.
Through a partnership with Steven’s Media Group, a local radio station, the casino donates $20,000 each year to individuals and nonprofit organizations in need. Twenty people are nominated by community members to receive $500 Visa gift cards, while ten nonprofit organizations each receive $1,000 to continue their local work. “It’s not about who’s the most well known,” Matt said. “It’s about recognizing kindness and spreading love throughout the community.”
During the Winter Blessing kickoff, guests gather to enjoy traditional dances, stories, and—of course—fry bread with huckleberry jam. Local artisans, all of whom are enrolled tribal members, also display and sell their handmade works during the casino’s Native American art markets, held in November and December.
A Legacy of Support Year-Round
Giving doesn’t stop when the holidays are over. Through programs like Coeur Connections, the casino donates an average of $50,000 each year to small local nonprofits. Funds come from guests who drop spare change tickets into collection boxes across the property, which are then redistributed to support causes including education, veterans, homelessness, domestic violence prevention, first responders, the arts, healthcare, mental care, and elder care.
The casino also partners annually with Tom’s Turkey Drive and Tools 2 Schools, providing thousands of dollars in food and school supplies for families in need across North Idaho and Eastern Washington.
Educating and Empowering
For the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, education—both within and beyond the reservation—is a vital form of empowerment. Every new employee at the casino receives cultural orientation to understand the tribe’s history, mission, and impact. “Even some of our employees don’t realize they work for a tribe,” said White. “When they learn that everything we do supports healthcare, education, and elder programs, they’re proud to be part of it.”
That sense of shared purpose extends to programs like One Sky, One Earth—a community garden initiative that provides fresh produce and canning classes for local families.
Supporting Their Own Team
The spirit of generosity runs through every level of Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel—including the way they care for their own. Each Thanksgiving season, every employee receives a turkey, hand-delivered by the executive and management team. Those who don’t need theirs can donate it through the casino’s internal Family Fund, ensuring no one goes without.
Leadership and Legacy
Under the leadership of CEO Laura Penney, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel has continued to thrive—even through challenging times. Just five months into her role, Penney faced the global pandemic head-on, guiding the casino through uncertainty with a steady hand and a strong heart. Today, the property continues to post record financial results, ensuring that the tribe’s future remains bright.
“Everything we do comes back to who we are as a tribe,” Matt said. “We honor the past, celebrate the present, and give back for the future.”