In conjunction with this year’s Shine the Light contest, Guthrie County REC recognized nominee Kristi Sutherland with a $500 donation to her charity of choice.

Kristi, of Adel, was nominated by Thomas Burkgren of Perry for her numerous volunteer and community activities, including her church, Panther Creek Church of the Brethren in Adel.

“I am continually impressed with Kristi’s action-oriented empathy for the members of a wide community that is well beyond the walls of Panther Creek Church,” Thomas wrote in the nomination.

Through trial and error and about a year of learning how to weave, Kristi began making mats out of plastic bags for unhoused people in central Iowa. A team of church members now assists her in this endeavor. Some of the many other activities Kristi spearheads include repurposing medicine bottles for overseas missions and organizing food donations for her community.

“It gives me great joy to volunteer and serve others,” Kristi said. “My grandparents and parents helped those in need, so it has always been part of my life.”

Blessing box makes a positive impact

At the corner of Highway 44 and Dallas Co. P58, also known as Panther Corner, you might see a “Blessing Box” filled with food items.

The food insecurity rate in Dallas County sits at approximately 8.4% to 9.2%, meaning roughly 8,000 to 9,000 residents lack consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. Because Perry has a significantly higher poverty rate (11.9%) compared to the rest of wealthy Dallas County (4.9%), the localized hunger and food assistance needs within the city of Perry are disproportionately higher than county-wide averages.

“The box provides food to anyone in need with no questions asked,” Thomas wrote. “It has become a vital way for people to supplement their daily food needs.”

The $500 donation will support and expand the offerings in the blessing box.

“I have a Costco membership so it is easy for me to buy in bulk the items with nutritive value,” Kristi said. “And we have a fund set up to reimburse members for their support. It is a constant need!”

"Kristi is always a willing volunteer when called upon,” Thomas wrote. “She has a committed spirit that generates action to help where help is needed. She is a bright light in our community.” Guthrie County REC is proud to shine the light on Kristi and the work she is doing to better her community.

Pictured above: Kristi Sutherland (center) is pictured with Thomas Burkgren (left), who nominated her, and Cozy Nelsen, Guthrie County REC.

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The Shine the Light contest is held each year with nominations open throughout the month of June. For more information, visit www.iowashinethelight.com.