The eighth annual Nativity Festival, a fundraiser of Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity, raised $7,147, although the books aren’t closed on the event.
Jill Lamoureux and Melody Larson once again organized a display of about two dozen nativity sets from the collections of area residents. The nativity sets ranged from a children’s set crafted from empty toilet paper rolls to a large, hand-carved set purchased in Bethlehem by Sam and Rhonda Harding; from a hand knit set to fine porcelain.
The First United Methodist Church in Jefferson once again hosted the event, which is always held the second Sunday in December. The church was comfortably full for a concert of local talent coordinated by Tori Riley. The youngest performer was 7-year-old Delaney Pedersen. She sang “Oh, Come, Little Children.” The oldest performer was 90-something Marilynn Hoskinson, a longtime member of the Joyful Noise group from First Presbyterian in Jefferson.
Harry Ahrenholtz, Heart of Iowa Habitat board president, was emcee for the concert. Heart of Iowa executive director Jeff Lamoureux spoke briefly, highlighting the work of the local affiliate in the past year. He said Habitat is about being “a do-er of the Word,” putting into action Biblical calls to serve those in need.
According to Lamoureux, the Heart of Iowa affiliate faced two challenges during 2019: a staff transition with the retirement of Erich Kretzinger and his own move into the executive director position, and hiring Lyndsey Lynch as assistant director; and the weather.
Volunteer crews completed one Aging in Place project north of Scranton, building a ramp to provide accessibility for an older resident. A large Helping Hands project north of Bagley created logistical challenges, partly due to it’s rather remote location.
A supper of chicken noodle soup and chili followed the concert. Shirley Haupert organized the supper and members of the Greene County High School Interact Club helped serve.
Auctioneer Kaleb Lentz sold 19 homemade pies for a total of $1,900. Gina Harrington earned bragging rights for an apple pie that brought in $150. A lattice-top cherry pie baked by Marianne Carlson was sold for $140.
The fundraising total includes donations from Home State Bank, Community Bank of Paton, United Bank of Churdan, Rolling Hills Bank and Trust of Rippey and Hamilton Redi-Mix.
“This was our eighth year of hosting the Nativity Festival and it continues to draw a large audience. The festival committee assembled a fabulous line up of local talent once again,” said Jeff Lamoureux. “I am extremely thankful for the support Habitat receives from our community both physically and financially. The dollars generated through the Nativity Festival will assist with funding Helping Hands home repair projects across Greene County in 2020. Thanks to all attending and our banks and businesses who support our mission.”
Those who were unable to attend the Nativity Festival but would like to support the efforts of Habitat for Humanity to provide safe, affordable housing, can mail donations to Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity, 114 S. Chestnut St, Jefferson, IA 50129, or visit www.heartofiowa.org to make a secure donation online.
