Soup supper to benefit Jim McDonnell Scholarship

A special fundraising supper is planned next weekend to honor the legacy of a well-known outdoorsman from Royal.

The late Jim McDonnell was a respected educator, coach, fishing guide and outdoors advocate in northwest Iowa. To honor his legacy, his family is hosting a "Harvest Soup Supper" at the Great Hall of Royal, Saturday, Nov. 2. It's a free will donation, and there will also be raffle prizes and silent auction. Doors open at 5 p.m., and soup will be served served from 6-8 p.m.

All proceeds benefit the Jim McDonnell Scholarship, which is given to Iowa high school students planning to study wildlife, conservation, environment or teaching in college. To date, the Jim McDonnell Scholarship has given away over $27,000 worth of scholarships to students, investing in Iowa's outdoor future.

"My dad knew the future of the outdoors was in the hands of the next generation" said Kelly Jo McDonnell, youngest daughter of the McDonnell family and president of the scholarship. "He always used to say that he was 'a teacher first'. He knew education was key. And we are honored to carry that on through his scholarship."

McDonnell's Iowa Great Lakes Fishing Club, which he founded over 50 years ago, is still active in the area and doing events to help introduce kids to the outdoors.

"It's all about making a difference," Kelly said. "Dad's ability to kickstart action was legendary."

To find out more information or to donate to the cause, visit http://www.JimMcDonnellScholarship.com. For additional pictures, interviews or more information on the event, please contact [email protected] or cell (651) 353-7523.