2024 Volunteer Hall of Fame and Inductees with Governor Kim Reynolds and Iowa HHS Director Kelly Garcia
Nominations are CLOSED for the 2025 Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame Awards.
The Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame is the most prestigious state-level honor volunteers can receive; the people selected have freely given their precious time and talent in countless ways to benefit others and have forever changed their community, the state, the nation, or the world. Inductees are recognized during a special ceremony held in the State Capitol Building and their names are engraved on the Volunteer Hall of Fame plaque on permanent display in the State Historical Museum. Since the award’s inception in 1989, nearly 200 Iowans have been honored.
Nominations may be submitted by anyone familiar with the nominee's volunteer commitment and impact. Nominees must live or operate in Iowa: individuals, national service members, families, groups, organizations, nonprofits, businesses, or corporations may be nominated.
If you have any questions, please email info@volunteeriowa.org or call 800.308.5987.
For information on the Excellence in Mentoring Awards, visit the Iowa MENTOR website.
View all Volunteer Hall of Fame Members
The 2025 Volunteer Hall of Fame Inductees:
Linda Wilson Anderson, Newton
Linda Wilson Anderson, a retired Heartland AEA Physical Therapist from Newton, serves as the volunteer director of two nonprofit organizations, Project HELP of Marion County and Kid Assist of Jasper County. With her expertise and dedication, she has supported children, families, educators, and communities for over 30 years by enabling individuals with disabilities to participate in activities otherwise inaccessible to them. Her resourcefulness makes her a trusted go-to person for addressing the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.
These two nonprofits address critical gaps in access to essential equipment for children with disabilities. Families and schools often cannot afford adaptive items such as standers, walkers, and adaptive toys, especially as children quickly outgrow equipment. Linda acquires, loans, and delivers specialized equipment free of charge, tailoring it to meet the needs of recipients in their homes, schools, and public spaces like playgrounds, bowling alleys, and swimming pools. Additionally, she spearheaded a ramp-building project to improve home accessibility and has organized the donation of used equipment to communities in El Salvador.
Through strong partnerships, Linda has installed adaptive swings in playgrounds, adult-sized changing tables in recreational facilities, and ball-launching ramps in bowling alleys. She collaborates with organizations like DMACC’s building trades program, churches, and Progress Industries to provide accessible resources and recreational activities. Linda’s work fosters greater awareness and acceptance of people with disabilities within the community.
Her impact extends to improving educational experiences by equipping schools with appropriate tools, enabling students with disabilities to engage with their peers. Families now participate in shared activities like biking, swimming, and bowling, strengthening bonds and creating accessible opportunities. Linda’s outreach has enriched the lives of countless individuals, promoting visibility and equality for people with disabilities.
As the sole unpaid staff, Linda single-handedly manages all aspects of her nonprofits, including grant writing, equipment procurement, and responding to referrals. She consults directly with families, educators, and community organizations to evaluate needs and provide solutions. Linda also leads a small board of directors for each nonprofit, oversees budgets with the treasurer, and conducts educational programs to raise awareness about disability issues.
Her efforts go beyond meeting immediate needs; they promote long-term involvement and improved quality of life. Linda dedicates an estimated 15 to 20 hours weekly to her work, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Her advocacy and actions have immeasurable influence in these communities, making activities and services accessible to individuals with disabilities. Linda Anderson’s unwavering devotion exemplifies the transformative power of volunteerism, creating opportunities and inspiring acceptance for people with differing abilities.
Des Moines Refugee Support, Norwalk
Des Moines Refugee Support (DMRS), established in 2016, exemplifies the transformative power of volunteerism in addressing critical needs for refugee families in central Iowa. Operating with about 40 weekly volunteers, 100 monthly volunteers, and more than 300 special event volunteers, DMRS fills essential gaps not met by traditional resettlement services, providing long-term support to help refugee families thrive. Its unique approach has earned widespread recognition, demonstrating its profound impact on individuals and the community.
DMRS tackles pressing community challenges, such as transportation for preschoolers. In Des Moines, access to preschool is free, yet transportation barriers prevent many refugee children from attending. DMRS launched a volunteer-driven program to transport children to and from school, enabling access to vital early childhood education. Volunteer drivers reinforce classroom lessons during rides, creating bonds with families and ensuring students’ educational growth. After the 2023-2024 school year, teachers reported that 100% of students in the program improved English skills and successfully integrated into their classrooms.
Beyond transportation, DMRS addresses diverse needs through innovative programs. The “Women of the World” initiative combats social isolation for refugee women while fostering economic empowerment. Participants engage in farmers’ markets, selling goods like baked items and offering henna, which boosts their income and sense of belonging. Additionally, DMRS orchestrates after-school soccer programs for youth, decreasing emotional trauma and promoting higher education aspirations. Starting with three soccer players in 2017, DMRS now supports over 120 boys and girls ages 9 to 19, who play on recreational and select soccer teams. The level of talent has led to DMRS traveling with players to tournaments in Omaha, Kansas City, Minneapolis, Chicago, Memphis and Phoenix.
DMRS’s commitment to connection building is exemplified in its culturally sensitive responses. For instance, when a family lost a child, DMRS arranged culturally appropriate funeral services and provided ongoing support, ensuring the family felt supported in their grief. Collaborative initiatives like the Spring Free Store, Grant's Back to School Free Store, and Santa's Ride, which served over 3,300 individuals in 2024, further highlight the organization’s ability to unite community members and donors to meet vital needs.
The organization’s impact is far-reaching, promoting education, and social inclusion. Programs for healthcare advocacy, transportation to medical appointments, and interpretation helped participants access healthcare they otherwise wouldn’t. One hundred percent of the participants in “Women of the World” reported increased connections in the community and an increased sense of worth as they were able to contribute to their family's finances. The soccer initiatives significantly reduced truancy rates, increased grades, improved attitudes toward school, and supported mental well-being.
Led by founder Alison Hoeman, DMRS exemplifies a “why not” mentality, overcoming barriers to address refugee families’ needs. With over 40 volunteers contributing between 15 and 40 hours weekly, DMRS creates innovative programs, builds meaningful partnerships, and ensures that Iowa’s newest neighbors can thrive. DMRS is a testament to the power of grassroots efforts, driven by love and dedication, to create lasting social change and uplift refugee communities.
Terrance J. Hollingsworth, Waterloo
Terrance Hollingsworth has made significant contributions to community health and youth opportunities in eastern Iowa. He collaborates with various organizations including world-class healthcare companies including Medtronic, Lilly, Novo Nordisk and Delta Dental to bring them to the Cedar Valley. He is helping to train the next generation of career professionals and community leaders, one of which created an accelerated nursing program and Empower Me, a youth development and leadership program, aligning service-learning to careers. Terrance recently led Iowa’s only youth team in a national transportation and distracted driving initiative with General Motors, Honda and the National Youth Leadership Council.
Healthcare is central to Terrance’s volunteerism. Iowa has the second highest and fastest growing cancer rate in the nation and diabetes is the cornerstone of the affordable healthcare debate. Terrance has served with Focus on Diabetes to host the Cedar Valley Focus on Diabetes, the largest patient education community outreach health fair in the region. His work with Focus on Diabetes has led to partnerships with the University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Iowa Cancer Consortium, which have improved access to health screenings, early detection, and empowerment for diabetic and cancer patients and their families. Additionally, through the Focus on Diabetes youth program, graduates from institutions like Hawkeye Community College and Allen College have pursued healthcare careers.
As Vice President of the We Care Neighborhood Association, Terrance has organized events like National Night Out, fostering relationships between neighbors, city officials, and law enforcement. His advocacy has secured financial support for these efforts citywide. In 2020, he advocated for high-speed internet funding, resulting in broadband upgrades for Waterloo. These initiatives were later expanded through the Inflation Reduction Act and the Reconnecting Neighborhoods pilot program.
With over 20 years of executive experience in the financial industry, he leads an immersive youth financial education program that prioritizes teaching the principles of finance, prioritizing wealth creation and the long-term benefits of compounding interest and avoiding the pitfalls of poor credit.
Terrance's ability to connect resources with local needs has facilitated transformative changes in health, youth empowerment and education, and infrastructure in the Cedar Valley. His service embodies selflessness, innovation, and a commitment to creating long-term community impacts. Terrance’s vision and efforts demonstrate the lasting influence of dedicated volunteerism.
Doris Lemker, Marshalltown
Doris Lemker has been a devoted volunteer at the Iowa Veterans Home (IVH) since 1991, where she has dedicated herself to enhancing the lives of veterans. Her steadfast commitment and remarkable energy have earned her admiration both at IVH and throughout her community. Beyond her work at IVH, Doris actively supports the Emergency Food Box, her church's Women’s Group, and serves as a member of the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) and Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary (VFWA).
Doris has spent her life addressing critical community needs. At IVH, she fosters a vibrant environment for veterans by managing the Gift Shop, welcoming visitors, and organizing events such as Christmas gift drives and the Foreign Food Fair. These initiatives provide social interaction, celebrate traditions, and improve veterans’ quality of life. Her work at the Emergency Food Box tackles food insecurity, where she ensures families have access to essential resources. In times of grief, Doris provides compassionate support through the Women’s Fellowship Committee, organizing funeral receptions that offer comfort and dignity to grieving families.
Through her involvement with ALA and VFWA, Doris sustains meaningful traditions that strengthen community bonds. She coordinates impactful programs such as scholarship initiatives, Poppy Distribution, and celebrations that honor veterans. Her leadership ensures the continuation and success of these traditions.
Doris is a pillar of her community, recognized for her ability to inspire volunteerism and foster connections. She has contributed over 40,415 hours of service at IVH—more than any other volunteer in its history. Additionally, she devotes countless hours to other community services, embodying the true spirit of leadership and compassion.
Her contributions extend beyond time spent; she has spearheaded fundraisers that resulted in new quality-of-life programs for veterans. Whether stocking shelves at the food pantry, coordinating with organizations, or meticulously managing finances for ALA and VFWA, her organizational skills ensure no detail is overlooked. Her empathy shines in her support for grieving families, reflecting her respect for others.
In every effort, Doris inspires a sense of belonging and unity, proving that one individual's hard work can address community needs and foster a lasting positive impact. Her extraordinary selflessness serves as a testament to the power of compassionate service, making her an exceptional leader and cherished member of her community.
Sally S. Reck, Marion
Sally Reck, a retired elementary school librarian and educator, dedicated 36 years to volunteering at the Marion Public Library (MPL), including 35 years on its Board of Trustees, where she served as president during critical moments. Sally led MPL through significant challenges, including leadership changes, the 2020 pandemic, the August 2020 derecho that destroyed the library, and a $3 million capital campaign to rebuild it. With unwavering grace and perseverance, she remained committed to serving the citizens of Marion.
Appointed in 1989, Sally was instrumental in transitioning library services from the original 1905 Carnegie Library to a new facility in 1996. Her leadership continued with the opening of the current state-of-the-art library in 2022. As a trustee with library science expertise, Sally provided invaluable insights to guide decisions benefiting employees and patrons. Her steady leadership during crises ensured uninterrupted library services, including relocating operations to a temporary space after the derecho and saving the collection. She also led the board through leadership transitions, interim directorships, and hiring a new library director.
Despite personal loss, including the passing of her husband in 2021, Sally’s leadership never wavered. Her advocacy extended to accessibility, such as championing the library’s adult changing station and advocating for Marion’s first bookmobile. Launched in December 2024, the bookmobile addressed barriers like mobility and transportation challenges, ensuring increased access to resources for all.
Sally’s loyalty to Marion spans far beyond MPL. A retired educator from Iowa’s public schools, she fostered a love of learning among students. Outside of work and the MPL board, she has organized fundraisers for PEO scholarships for women and supported initiatives like the Kiwanis Miracle League. Sally also reviewed student essays as part of the Letters about Literature program, a Library of Congress initiative. She has volunteered for over 40 years at her church, most recently helping prepare meals for Mission of Hope in Cedar Rapids. Her involvement in community projects reflects her compassion and dedication to connecting and uplifting others.
As MPL trustee president during the derecho and pandemic, Sally’s empathetic yet decisive leadership helped rebuild the library’s vision and infrastructure. Her contributions supported fundraising, staff morale, and operational continuity—culminating in the grand opening celebration of the new library in 2023. Her tireless advocacy for Marion’s residents and officials has left a lasting impact on her community.
Today, Sally continues to serve Marion through the Library Foundation Board of Directors, contributing her expertise and generosity. Her 35-year legacy exemplifies selfless dedication, effective leadership, and a devotion to education, accessibility, and service. Sally Reck is a true cornerstone of her community, inspiring generations to come.
Mary Kay Suckow, West Des Moines
Mary Kay exemplifies dedicated service and compassion through her extensive volunteer work, positively impacting her community across various domains. Over 15 years as a hospice volunteer, she has brought comfort and companionship to patients and their families during vulnerable times, providing emotional support, alleviating loneliness, and fostering moments of reflection. Her empathetic presence has reassured families, offering peace of mind that their loved ones are cared for by a kind and safe visitor.
Her commitment extends to Mary’s Helping Hands, where she has volunteered since the nonprofit’s inception nearly four years ago. Mary Kay coordinates donations to provide essential clothing and supplies for children from birth to age two. Her efforts ensure families in need can clothe their children in seasonally and size-appropriate attire, adhering to strict budgets through donations and consignment sales. Her total dedicated 1,860 hours of service at Mary’s Helping Hands, including 45 to 50 hours monthly, have enabled countless families to focus on other necessities, knowing their children’s basic needs are met.
At Connections Café, Mary Kay combats food insecurity by serving meals to those who are homeless or struggling financially. This program offers complete meals six days a week, supported by partnerships with local churches to ensure sustainability. Mary Kay’s warm interactions while serving meals help foster a sense of dignity and hope among patrons.
Mary Kay also supports senior citizens, driving them to medical appointments and church services. Her reliable transportation service mitigates barriers to essential care and social engagement, enabling seniors to maintain critical aspects of their quality of life without financial burden. Her role has helped prevent isolation and ensured seniors can access the care and community connections they need.
In her work with St. Vincent de Paul, Mary Kay visits individuals in need, assisting them with rent support and connecting them to vital resources. Her steadfastness ensures that struggling families receive the help they require.
Across all her volunteer roles, Mary Kay builds meaningful connections, meeting individuals where they are with compassion and a nonjudgmental attitude. Whether supporting hospice patients, providing meals, or aiding families, her actions have transformed lives by reducing loneliness, ensuring access to resources, and fostering hope.
In total, Mary Kay averages nearly 80 volunteer hours per month, giving herself wholeheartedly to serving her community. Her extensive service has not only improved social conditions but also set an inspiring example of selflessness and human kindness, embodying the highest ideals of compassionate volunteerism. In addition to the Volunteer Hall of Fame, Mary Kay was designated as an Honored Volunteer by the Hospice & Palliative Care Association of Iowa.
Photos from the 2024 Volunteer Iowa Awards ceremony can be viewed on our Flickr page. Special thanks to DJ Christensen and Ana Kirkpatrick for serving as photographers for the event.