Who we are

The Inland Northwest Journalism Foundation (INJF) is committed to preserving local journalism's essential role as the backbone of informed and engaged communities. In an era where news deserts threaten democracy, vital stories go untold, and the voices of many remain unheard, we stand as champions for the First Amendment, defenders of ethical reporting, and advocates for the next generation of journalists. Our mission is rooted in the belief that a well-informed public is the cornerstone of a thriving democracy.

Through impactful grants, transformative scholarships, and strategic partnerships, INJF empowers privately-owned local newsrooms to serve as watchdogs, amplifies community voices, and safeguards the archives that preserve our shared history. By supporting investigative reporting, promoting journalistic excellence, and fostering civic dialogue, we ensure that journalism remains a force for truth, accountability, and connection throughout the Inland Northwest. Together, we’re building a future where independent local journalism continues to inspire, inform, and protect the communities it serves.

Logo of Inland Northwest Journalism Foundation featuring a quill pen and mountain silhouette.
A group of journalists collaborates in a newsroom using computers and paperwork.

Our Vision.

Our Mission.

MISSION
To protect the integrity of community-focused journalism, prevent news deserts, and inspire impactful reporting that strengthens democracy and preserves the public record.

VISION
A thriving Inland Northwest with independent local journalism at its core—informing, connecting, and empowering communities for generations to come.

The Work of Our Journalists

Local Issues That Matter

Zoning Reform & The Housing Crunch

Local Issues That Matter

"Early voting" sign on a sidewalk next to a parked car and a tree.

Small Races - Big Stakes

Local Politics

A woman sitting at a desk in an office with plants on the windowsill and a framed picture on the wall.

The Defense Rests

Local Safety

Three men assisting a person on the floor, surrounded by onlookers indoors.

Borrenpohl Hires Legal Representation

Accountability

Entrance to North Idaho College building with ivy-covered walls.

The Fight to Save North Idaho College

Protecting the Future

Two people hugging emotionally in a room with others in the background.

Jury Awards $1.1M to Performer

Human Rights

Two people in a cozy room with a TV and candles, one facing away, the other seated in the distance.

Kids in Crisis

Mental Health

A man giving a speech at a podium in a government setting, with officials seated behind him and an American flag visible. Microphones and papers are on the podium.

Governor Signs HB93

Education

People participating in a rally, with one person holding a sign that says "Life Matters."

The Humanity of Homelessness

Finding Solutions

Woman hugging young girl on a porch while a boy plays with a water hose in the yard.

Barriers to Permanent Housing

Local Economy

Group of protesters holding signs demanding sheriff's resignation on a roadside.

Protesters Call for Sheriff’s Resignation

Community Watchdog

A collection of firearms and accessories displayed on a table and couch in a room. Several rifles and pistols are visible along with ammunition magazines and other gun-related equipment. The setting appears to be indoors with a couch in the background.

Raid Yields Guns and Drugs

Public Security

Military funeral ceremony with honor guard carrying a flag-draped casket in a cemetery. Uniformed soldiers and American flags are present, and spectators pay their respects. Created as local news by local journalists.

A hero’s requiem, 81 years late

Honoring Local Veterans

Group of fish swimming underwater, showing lake and fish health. Created as local news by local journalists.

Shifting currents in salmon situation

Environment

Outdoor farmer's market with pumpkins, tents, and vendors illustrating the importance of community. Created as local news by local journalists.

The Fruit of the Season

Local Arts & Entertainment

Two men pose in front of a sign for a martial arts academy, wearing fight gear shirts, illustrating the importance of local sports. Created as local news by local journalists.

Drake Randall fights for family, a shot at the UFC

Local Sports

A man in a blue shirt and cap is pointing at the rubble in a burnt area, surrounded by debris and charred building remnants and illustrating the importance of fire awareness and safety in a community. Created as local news by local journalists.

Mixed Emotions

Living in Fire Country

A group of six people gathered around a hospital bed where a woman was lying under a blanket. The group looks happy and relaxed, posing for the photo in a hospital room with medical equipment. Created as local news by local journalists.

Miracle on the Snake River

Local Heros

Audience watching a film in a theater with a person speaking on screen.

The tail behind the Whale

Local Features

Group of young adults posing playfully, one person sitting on another's shoulders, wearing casual clothing and smiling.

Moscow murders: Still not settled

Critical Coverage

A football game between players in white uniforms and players in green and yellow uniforms on the field.

Witnessing Super Bowl History

Local Interest

Our Board of Trustees

  • Clint Schroeder

    Clinton J. Schroeder

    Board Chair & Founding Member

    President, Hagadone Communications, Hagadone Newspaper & Media Groups

  • Nathan Alford

    Nathan Alford

    Board Vice Chair & Founding Member

    CEO, Editor & Publisher, TPC Holdings, Inc.

  • Sheri Jones is smiling with long blonde hair, wearing a black sleeveless top and necklace

    Sheri Jones

    Board Secretary

    Regional Director of Finance & Operations, Hagadone Media Group - Idaho & Washington

  • Justin Ralston is pictured with glasses and a goatee, wearing a blue shirt, smiling, and looking at the camera against a neutral background.

    Justin Ralston

    Board Treasurer

    Chief Financial Officer, TPC Holdings, Inc.

  • A.L. Alford, Jr. is pictured in a striped tie and collared shirt indoors

    A.L. Alford, Jr.

    Trustee / Director

    Editor Emeritus, TPC Holdings, Inc.

  • Anton Kaufer is pictured with glasses in a sweater, sitting in front of framed newspapers on a wall.

    Anton Kaufer

    Trustee / Director

    Regional Publisher, Hagadone Media Group - Montana

  • Matthew Baney is pictured with glasses and gray hair smiling, wearing a red plaid shirt.

    Matthew Baney

    Trustee / Director

    Managing Editor, Lewiston Tribune & Moscow-Pullman Daily News

  • Robert Monteith is pictured wearing glasses, flannel shirt in an office setting

    Robert Monteith

    Trustee / Director

    Managing Editor, Coeur d’Alene/Post Falls Press

  • Inland Northwest Journalism Foundation logo with a feather pen and mountain graphic.

Supporting the Future of Independent Journalism

The Inland Northwest Journalism Foundation (INJF) ensures that high-quality, fact-based journalism thrives for generations. In an era where local news faces unprecedented challenges, your support can make a direct and lasting impact. Through our various funds and giving options, donors can contribute in ways that align with their passions, whether strengthening community newsrooms, supporting investigative reporting, or investing in the next generation of journalists.

We offer several funding options to give you the flexibility to direct your support where it matters most:

  • General Fund – The most versatile way to give, allowing our board to allocate resources to the areas of greatest need, from investigative journalism to newsroom sustainability.

  • Community-Specific Fund – Focus your gift on a particular county, state, or media organization, ensuring that your contribution strengthens journalism in the community that matters most to you.

  • Project-Specific Fund – Support in-depth investigative journalism, statehouse coverage, or another specialized reporting initiative that aligns with your interests.

  • Scholarship Fund – Invest in the future of journalism by helping students and emerging reporters gain the education and training they need to uphold the highest reporting standards.

  • Bequest & Estate Giving – Leave a lasting legacy by including INJF in your will or estate plan, ensuring that independent journalism continues to serve the public for generations.

Ways to Give

Your contribution to INJF can take many forms, allowing you to support journalism in a way that best fits your philanthropic goals. You can make a one-time donation, establish a recurring gift, or create a named scholarship or fund in honor of someone special. For those looking to leave a legacy, our Bequest & Estate Giving Program provides an opportunity to make a transformational impact through wills, trusts, and planned giving.

For major gifts, endowments, or customized giving options, our team is happy to work with you to ensure that your support aligns with your vision. Whether you choose to fund investigative journalism that holds power accountable, support local newsrooms serving your community, or invest in the education of future journalists, every gift plays a critical role in sustaining a free and informed society.

Why It Matters

Independent journalism is the backbone of democracy, ensuring that citizens have access to accurate, unbiased information. As newsrooms across the country face declining revenues and increasing challenges, philanthropic support is more vital than ever. Your gift helps preserve the essential role of journalism in our communities—keeping people informed, uncovering the truth, and holding those in power accountable.

By supporting the Inland Northwest Journalism Foundation, you are making an investment in the future of trustworthy reporting, civic engagement, and an informed public. Together, we can ensure that independent journalism continues to thrive, serving as a pillar of democracy for generations to come.

Your Support Fuels Truth and Trust.

Inland Northwest Journalism Foundation logo with a quill and mountain design.

Join the Mission

Newspapers like the Daily Inter Lake and Lewiston Tribune have been pillars of their communities for decades. With your help, they and other local news outlets can continue to provide the trusted journalism our region deserves. Together, we can ensure a thriving future for the Inland Northwest.