Jim and Karen North were honored with a Governor’s Volunteer Award from Gov Kim Reynolds and Lt Gov Adam Gregg at an awards ceremony Sept.27 at Southeast Polk High School.
The Norths were nominated by Pastor Julie Poulsen of First United Methodist Church in Jefferson for their steadfast volunteerism at the Webb House, a teen center owned by the church, operated with assistance from several Jefferson churches and organizations, and open to all middle school students.
Pastor Julie noted that the Norths have volunteered 22 years to build, maintain and operate the Webb House, ” a huge contribution of mentoring, caring, loving the youth of the county. ”
Jim North was honored with the Greene County Impact Award in 2018 for his efforts with the Webb House.
More than 540 awards are being presented this year during ceremonies at several locations around the state. It is estimated that more than 27,000 hours of service, with an economic impact of more than $693,000, were contributed by this year’s honorees during the past 12 months.
“Neighbor helping neighbor is as Iowan as a pork tenderloin at the county fair – we’ve seen it time and time again,” said Gov Reynolds in prepared press release. “Volunteerism is who we are as Iowans. I’m honored to recognized those who continue to give back and help their fellow Iowans.”
Lt Gov Adam Gregg attended the Southeast Polk ceremony. “Volunteering of your time and talents has a positive impact on our communities and the people being helped,” Gregg said. “The dedication of volunteers often encourages others to get involved, which is why Iowa continues to be a top state in volunteerism.”
Coordinated by Volunteer Iowa, the Governor’s Volunteer Award program – now in its 36th year – provides an easy way for Iowa nonprofits, charitable organizations, and government entities to honor their volunteers with a prestigious, state-level award. More information is available at volunteeriowa.org.
