Clarke Electric Cooperative recently recognized four local individuals for their volunteer contributions to their communities. Each of the four were nominated for the 2023 Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives of Iowa Shine the Light contest held in June. Although they were not selected as contest winners, CEC wanted to thank and acknowledge them for their service by donating $250 each to the charity of their choice.
Dianne Riley, Osceola
Nominated by Joan Peterson
For more than 20 years, Dianne has been at the helm of the Clarke County Toys for Christmas program. Each year, Dianne applies for grants, gathers sponsorships and organizes volunteers to make sure those local families in need can have a merry Christmas. In 2022, Dianne coordinated 27 adult volunteers and 17 high school student volunteers as they purchased, wrapped, and delivered toys and needed clothing to a total of 144 area families (388 children).
Sandy and Mike Ralya, Afton
Nominated by Laura Tallmon
Relatively new to Afton, Sandy and Mike Ralya moved in 2016 from Omaha, and immediately jumped in with both feet to make a positive impact on their community. On the south side of the town square is a pocket park Mike and Sandy spent countless hours planting flowers and plants and tending to them all season long. They also decorate the square with Christmas decorations each year. They have raised money and planted flowers along the walking paths. They are excellent examples of taking pride in their community and it shows.
Jena Wiley, Chariton
Nominated by Tami Adams
The Lucas County Animal Shelter unexpectedly closed several years ago leaving the building that housed it needing much improvement. Taking the reins, Jena created a non-profit, got more volunteers to serve as board members and over many months has been raising money to improve the facility enough to open the doors once again. She and her crew have spent many long days cleaning, painting, nailing and screwing things together to bring the building back to its original glory. The new name is Almost Home Animal Rescue.
Randy Dunfee, Murray
Nominated by Venita Escher
Randy has spent hundreds of hours volunteering his time to grill burgers and dogs at local town celebrations, cook at fundraisers for community projects, build the Freedom Rock shelter, and volunteer at the annual Hopeville Music Reunion among his activities. Recently, Randy was part of the crew to build a new fellowship hall for the Murray Church of Christ. You name the community project or neighbor that may need a helping hand, it’s likely Randy who’ll be helping out one way or another.