A lifetime of craftsmanship in the community
Nominee: Pete Nelson • Nominator: Nancy Sloan
Organization: Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity • Website: HeartOfIowaHabitat.com
Each year, Touchstone Energy Cooperatives of Iowa highlights outstanding volunteers across the state through their Shine the Light contest. In 2025, Midland Power Cooperative members nominated eight individuals whose service strengthens communities across our service areas. We are proud to recognize each of these nominees with a $625 donation to their respective organizations. We appreciate the partnership of our wholesale power providers — Central Iowa Power Cooperative and Corn Belt Power Cooperative — for helping make this support possible.
For three decades, Pete Nelson has been a cornerstone of Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity, contributing his professional expertise and time to help families achieve safe, affordable homeownership.
A former industrial arts teacher at Boone High School, Nelson began volunteering with Habitat for Humanity in 1995. Since then, he has played a role in nearly every phase of Habitat home construction, offering hands-on support and guidance drawn from his background in the building trades.
Pete is also a dedicated member of the Wednesday Carpenters Club, where he consistently volunteers week after week. His ongoing commitment supports Habitat’s mission to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing for families across Boone, Greene, and Guthrie counties.
In addition to new home construction, he has contributed to Habitat’s Helping Hands program, which assists homeowners with critical repair services that may otherwise be financially out of reach. Through this work, he helps ensure existing homes remain safe and livable for local families.
Pete’s 30 years of service reflect a deep commitment to community and craftsmanship. His efforts have helped provide not only homes, but also stability and hope for families throughout central Iowa.