Cottonwood Chronicle

Jim Rehder attended the Idaho Conference on Alcohol and Drug Dependency (ICADD) on Tuesday, May 20 at Boise State University Student Union Building where he received the 2025 ICADD LIfetime Achievement Award, presented by Norma Jaeger, Chair of Idaho Recovery Organization.
Rehder’s distinguished career exemplifies leadership, dedication, and an unwavering passion for making a difference in the lives of others. With 28 years of impactful service in Idaho prisons as both an educator and warden (1975-2003), Jim has shown a deep commitment to improving systems and fostering positive change within the community. He also served his community for six years (two terms) as the elected Idaho County Commissioner (2005-2011) and contributed significantly to public health and behavioral health initiatives. including membership on the Region 2 Public Health Board from 2005 to 2011.
His dedication continued with 20yrs of service on Public Health, Mental Health and Behavioral Health Boards. Elected as Idaho County Commissioner in 2004 and sworn-in January 2005, Jim joined the Region 2 Mental Health Board later that year, attending all meetings. Following his terms as Commissioner, he became chair of the Mental Health Board in 2011, a position he held until 2014 when Behavioral Health Boards were established by the legislature. Since then, Jim has served as the chair of the Region 2 Behavioral Health Board and anticipates continuing in this role until a successor is found.
As the long-standing chair of the Region 2 Behavioral Health Board, Jim has been a steadfast advocate for substance use disorder and mental health prevention, treatment, and recovery. He recognizes the critical importance of Behavioral Health for individuals with mental illness, substance use disorders, and co-occurring conditions, noting that most inmates in Idaho's prisons face such challenges, and many adults and youth in Idaho are similarly affected. His remarkable ability to bring people together, inspire collaboration, and champion innovative solutions has been instrumental in advancing the well-being of countless individuals and families in North Idaho.
Jim’s career is a testament to his tireless dedication and visionary leadership. He has worked tirelessly to address critical behavioral health issues, build strong partnerships, and ensure that those in need have access to the support and resources they deserve. His legacy of commitment and service makes him a deserving recipient of the 2025 ICADD Lifetime Achievement Award.

Jim Rehder with his ICADD Lifetime Achievement Award. Photo by Bill Farmer.

Jim Rehder talks to the crowd after receiving his award.