Recognizing Outstanding Iowans

As the deadline to submit Iowan of the Day applications quickly approaches on July 1, I’ve had more time to look over the accomplishments of our past winners.

2015 winner Elaine Bohling from Greenfield, Iowa is an outstanding role model for the youth in her community.

Elaine spearheads the youth action committee in Fontanelle, Iowa and led a team of local youth to apply for and receive three grants to renovate the “Fontanelle slab.” The slab, which once served as a hang-out to play basketball and roller-skate, had turned into an eye sore before Elaine and her youth committee restored the local favorite. Along with this project, Elaine and the youth plant flowers around Fontanelle each year for residents to enjoy.

As a 4H leader for over 15 years, Elaine helps to organize volunteers for the popstand at the local fair as well as workshops for her club. Elaine is a co-founder and volunteer of Pride of Iowa and has served as both a State and Area 4H Awards interviewer and 4H judge.  

Elaine also takes ten days off of work each year to volunteer at the Iowa State Fair! As if this wasn’t enough, Elaine helps with her church’s bible school, is a member of Friends of the Library, ushers for the Des Moines Playhouse and serves Thanksgiving dinner at the Machine Shed.

It’s easy to see why Elaine was named an Iowan of the Day. If you know of anyone who gives their time to serve others and their community, nominate them today! Applications have been coming in more slowly and I would love to read more about all the wonderful things Iowans do for this great state.

Thanks for reading and I can't wait for all those Iowan of the Day applications!

-Audra