05/30/24: Area Happenings & Accomplishments

Disaster Recovery Fund activated in Clay County

Following the severe weather events on May 21, the Clay County Community Foundation (CCCF) has activated the Disaster Recovery Fund (DRF) on behalf of Clay County.

Established in 2020 to support vulnerable populations, the DRF provides an opportunity for the public to give charitably, with the reassurance that donations will be quickly moved to resources where they are needed most to adapt to evolving priorities in Clay County. The flexible nature of the fund ensures that the county can quickly move to supplement resources provided by existing nonprofit, local, state and federal programs.

“The collective and compassionate reaction of Clay County residents who have donated to the DRF to support those affected by the severe weather events this month proves that we are better together,” said CCCF Director Terri Batschelet in a news release. “Our collaborative spirit will once again prevail as we support our neighbors in need.”

Funds received will be prioritized to support disproportionately affected communities by addressing economic barriers and health impacts of populations negatively impacted by disaster. Since much of the damage in Clay County was a result of hail, many of those affected are burdened with home repairs. The Clay County Community Foundation DRF will work with local nonprofits that aid with this purpose.

The long-term application of the fund will focus on additional needs that are not already being met and may arise. Grants will be provided to community-based organizations and service providers active in current response — they will not be made available for individual application. A team of community leaders and grant makers will work together with Clay County Emergency Management, local governmental officials and nonprofit leaders to identify the organizations that deliver support and services to vulnerable populations in moments of crisis.

For more information on how you can give to the DRF to support your friends and neighbors affected by the severe weather events in Clay County, please visit claycofoundation.com.

H-M-S students participate in NCC ‘Scrubs Camp’

Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon hosted its annual “Scrubs Camp” on May 13, welcoming over 80 enthusiastic middle and high school students from 13 area schools, including homeschool students, eager to explore various healthcare career paths.

The event, spearheaded by NCC’s Health Science programs and Sanford Health, offered students in grades 7-12 an immersive experience designed to introduce them to diverse healthcare professions. Participants delved into fields such as EMS, nursing, CNA, radiologic technology, pharmacy technology, medical lab technology, health information technology and medical coding.

Students were engaged in seven mini-sessions led by NCC program instructors, featuring hands-on activities tailored to each healthcare career. A highlight of the event was an emergency care live action simulation conducted in collaboration with the Sheldon Community Ambulance Team (SCAT). This simulation showcased the real-time collaboration among healthcare professionals in managing emergency trauma scenarios, emphasizing the critical importance of teamwork in healthcare.

“The collaborative nature of healthcare professions is crucial,” said Associate Dean of Health Kevin Miller, in a news release. “Each career contributes uniquely to positive patient outcomes and effective management. Allowing students to explore the true nature of a healthcare team is a valuable experience when they are choosing a career field.”

Students from 12 schools, including Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn, and homeschooled students participated in the camp.

Graduates with High Honor at MTC

A total of 504 students were honored at Mitchell Technical College’s 56th graduation commencement ceremonies May 10 at the Corn Palace.

Among the graduates was Jackson Albert, of Hartley, Diesel Power Technology. He graduated with High Honor distinction (3.75-3.9 GPA).

Spring Honor List announced at NCC

Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon has announced the Honor List for the spring semester. Students on the Honor List are full-time and have achieved an average grade point of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

The following area students were named to the Honor List.

Hartley: Kirsten Vander Stoep, Web & Graphic Design.

Ocheyedan: Bradley Zamudio, Associate of Arts; Laura Barrie, Web & Graphic Design.

Primghar: Jaela Anliker, Associate of Arts; Brock Riedemann, Diesel Technology.

Sanborn: Alan Abonce, Business; Taylan Elwood, Agriculture Science Technology; Rianne Van Meeteren, Radiologic Technology; Lynette Mattiesen, Web & Graphic Design.

NCC program gives car to immigrant couple

Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon continued its tradition of community service with the donation of a 2008 Chrysler Sebring through its “Charitable Chariots” program. This initiative aims to provide transportation solutions to families in need while offering valuable hands-on experience to students.

The recent recipients are Bohdan and Sasha Panasovych, Ukrainian immigrants newly settled in the United States. They expressed gratitude for the gift.

“We came to the U.S. with nothing,” Bohdan said. “This gift provides us with a good opportunity for our new lives here because there is very little public transit in Northwest Iowa. We are very thankful.”

The ceremony marking the transition of ownership from NCC to the Panasovychs was attended by members of the community, faculty and students, who witnessed the impact of their collective effort.

Gabriel Campbell, an Automotive & Light Duty Diesel student from Everly, reflected on his involvement: “This is a very cool project. It makes me feel really good that we can help someone.”

The Charitable Chariots Program, an integral part of NCC’s Automotive & Light Duty Diesel and Diesel Technology programs, has now donated 27 vehicles to families in need across northwest Iowa.