Shine the Light — Angie Kritzer
Angie Kritzer has played a central role in advancing Gilmore City’s Hometown Pride initiatives for more than a decade, helping transform Sunset Park into a more accessible and welcoming community space.
Angie Kritzer has played a central role in advancing Gilmore City’s Hometown Pride initiatives for more than a decade, helping transform Sunset Park into a more accessible and welcoming community space.
Sue Lund has devoted countless hours to supporting The Lord’s Cupboard food pantry, a critical resource for individuals and families in Jewell facing food insecurity.
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.
Sue Ballard’s dedication to Camp Fire Heart of Iowa is evident in every corner of the organization’s programming. Over the past year alone, she has contributed more than 700 volunteer hours, serving as a constant and reliable presence at camp program sites.
Haley Admire is recognized for her compassionate volunteer service with No Foot Too Small, an organization that supports families who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss.
A familiar face in the area, Marilyn Jurgena of Hampton has committed more than six decades to community service and has given her time, leadership, and energy to numerous local organizations and initiatives.
What began as a simple desire to help neighbors has grown into a 45-year commitment to community care for Judy Whitney, long-time leader of the Slater/Sheldahl Food Pantry.

Karl Jungbluth has played a pivotal role in strengthening conservation efforts at Ledges State Park near Boone. His work to remove more than 40 acres of invasive species has significantly improved the park’s forest health, and his leadership was critical in securing grants that funded equipment and specialized restoration crews.
