The Frank J. Harwood Initiative

By Like Media Team

The Frank J. Harwood Initiative centers on prevention, mentorship, and the belief that no young person should feel alone. Meghan Harwood founded the Coeur d'Alene nonprofit in honor of her husband, Frank, a battalion chief with Kootenai County Fire & Rescue and an Army National Guard veteran. Frank was killed while responding to the Canfield Mountain fire in June 2025.

“I refused to let Frank's life be defined by a headline,” Meghan says.

Beginning in 2027, the Initiative will launch a yearlong youth cohort that pairs participants with vetted first responder mentors and licensed mental health professionals. Running summer to summer, the program will use outdoor experiences to help young people build confidence, connection, and tools for lasting mental wellness. The Initiative will also support first responder families, who often carry the weight of service at home.

The framework mirrors how Frank lived. Service. Mentorship. Showing up.

Opportunities to donate, volunteer, or sponsor are open ahead of the Initiative's 2027 launch. Learn more at FJHInitiative.com.

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