As a member of your community, Guthrie County REC supports the work of our local volunteers and the selfless work they do on behalf of worthy causes. With October being National Co-op Month, we’re shining a light on three individuals who have made a positive impact on their communities. Each has received a $500 donation from Guthrie County REC and our power supplier, Central Iowa Power Cooperative, to benefit their favorite organization.
Karen Sparks, Guthrie Center
For Karen Sparks, volunteer work is more than rolling up her sleeves and lending a helping hand.
“The feelings from within the heart when you know you are helping others is a driving force to continue to do for others,” Karen says. “Seeing the lights in their eyes or the smiles on their faces, or at times the tears in their eyes makes all we do worth the time spent.”
Karen has been the heart and soul behind the Royal Neighbors of America® chapter in Guthrie Center. Royal Neighbors is an insurance provider focused on insuring lives, supporting women and serving communities. In her selfless work, she has organized filling backpacks for elementary students, fiddle blankets for nursing homes, and welcome bags for new residents filled with items from local businesses, among many other things.
“Sparks is a perfect last name for Karen,” says friend Vanessa Branson. “She sparks energy in everything she does. She is a staple in our community. I admire her so much!”
Amber Wetzel, Linden
As teachers continue to face tightening school budgets, outside help is needed now more than ever. Amber Wetzel goes above and beyond her teaching job at Guthrie Center Elementary School to ensure a safe, relaxing and cheerful environment for students and parents alike.
But her volunteer drive doesn’t end within school walls. She has also organized donated supplies to send to Greenfield to aid tornado victims. She has spent time at the public library helping with the children’s programs, cleaning and organizing supplies after it flooded. She has been actively involved in Relay for Life, Cub Scouts and other organizations.
“She wouldn’t be able to achieve this by only working contract hours,” says her friend and fellow teacher Amy Hoover. “She goes above and beyond her job description by giving up time at home to make our lives better and nurture our relationships.”
“I have a hard time saying no,” Amber says. “But more than that, if someone has a need I can help with, why not say yes? Whether it is an individual or group at work or in the community, and whether they ask for support or I can see that they need it, I am happy to help.”
Lou Hoger, Perry
Since 2018, Lou Hoger has managed the Perry Area Food Pantry, donating about 20 hours per week to this endeavor. In his role, he provides outreach, publicity and fundraising, as well as oversees the expenditures for the purchase of food and personal hygiene products through the Food Bank of Iowa and local retailers.
He is also a volunteer for the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), in which he counsels senior citizens on health insurance information. He is treasurer and flag project coordinator for the local Lions Club of Perry and has provided his services as a chaplain at the local Tyson Fresh Meats plant.
“He is known, trusted, and admired by a wide and varied range of people in the Perry area,” says friend Sue Kimpston.