An occasional series about people working for the betterment of Greene County
by Lora Koch, The Scranton Journal
If you think about the expression, “Want something done? Ask a busy person,” you could be picturing Jefferson resident Hollie Roberts. Not only is she the director of foundation development and Ever Greene Ridge for the Greene County Medical Center, but was she named exalted ruler for Jefferson Elks lodge #2306. Exalted ruler is the highest level of officer, and Roberts is the first woman to hold this position for the local lodge. She also remains actively involved in many other service organizations.
Roberts has a strong career and volunteer background that has prepared her well for these roles. She held a variety of management positions with Brenton Banks in Jefferson for 26 years, and made a career change to Iowa Central Community College as foundation director for three years.
When she accepted the director of foundation development position with Greene County Medical Center nearly four years ago, she described it as, “A dream come true!” In addition, she is now also responsible for Ever Greene Ridge, an independent living community in Jefferson for those age 55 and older.
Her current project with the medical center is the “Investing in Tomorrow’s Care” capital campaign. As of November, it had surpassed the $3 million mark, and was at 77 percent of the $4 million goal.
“Our donors, steering committee, volunteers, and employees are helping us reach our goal,” said Roberts. “Having a medical center in Greene County is something we can all embrace and take pride in. When that type of commitment occurs, great things happen.”
Her involvement in Elks began through her husband Jerry. “He was exalted ruler in Jefferson and then held state offices. As his spouse, I attended conventions and meetings with him,” explained Roberts. She then became active in her own right, with four years spent in progressively more responsible chair positions to achieve the level of exalted ruler in 2014. “There is a very systematic way to progress within the Elks organization.”
One thing that attracted her to Elks was the commitment to the precepts of charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity. The theme of, “Elks Care – Elks Share,” by serving youth, veterans and community is very applicable to Roberts’ personal involvement in other community endeavors.
She has served on the state board for Odyssey of the Mind and volunteers one week every summer at the World Finals. She is bequest treasurer at First Baptist Church and is part of the Nativity Festival committee for Habitat for Humanity.
Another of Roberts’ favorite philanthropies is Kiwanis, and she was one of the first women invited to join. “I was invited to attend a meeting and really liked it. They do lots of good things. I am most proud of AKTION, which is a Kiwanis club for adults with physical and mental disabilities. It’s one of the most rewarding things I have done,” she said.
“AKTION works with Genesis Development and they hold twice monthly meetings. They have their own board of directors, vote on items, and is a very benevolent group,” added Roberts. “It’s not designed to make money, but if they do have extra, they are eager to give it back to the community.”
Even with her jam-packed schedule, Roberts enjoys spending free time with her husband, who is now retired. She explores bike trails, loves to read, and cherishes time with grandchildren: Hayden, 10, Lila, 7, and Maya, 2.
Whether it’s her career or volunteer endeavors, Roberts summed it up best: “I love the service aspect of what I do. Youth, community, veterans…this is what I am all about. It might be corny, but it’s mission work and service to others. It’s what I want to do. It’s what drives me.”
