Lamoni Hosts Fifth Volunteers Fair
September 25, 2025
(Pictured: Jan Gray waiting for burgers while Leroy Kennedy tends to the grill.
(Pictured: Michael Edwards being served by Sheryl Harrison and Linda Fisher.
(Pictured: Jim and Gwen Simpson explain all about Food Pantry to Rose Waldier.
(Pictured: Jennifer McBroom and Tracey Dale ready to welcome participants and answer questions about AmeriCorps Seniors.
Lamoni's fifth annual Volunteer Fair drew community members together Monday evening, September 22, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., to explore volunteer opportunities throughout the city.
The event stretched from City Hall past the Community Center and into the parking lot where the Decatur County Cattlemen flipped burgers. Representatives from more than 45 local volunteer organizations hosted tables sharing their missions and opportunities with participants throughout the evening.
City Council member Tony Crandell, who attended representing the city airport, noted the sense of community that the fair fostered. “I enjoyed the fellowship with participants and other volunteer organizers,” Crandell said. “It was wonderful to see everyone engaging with each other – this is the kind of event that brings Lamoni neighbors together.”
The Lamoni City Council provided funding for the fair through while RSVP volunteers served the meal to participants who visited at least five organizations. Those participants became eligible for a prize drawing. This year's winners included Melissa Leonard, David Shaw, Karin Finks, Kyra Stevenson, Marian Killpack, Sheryl Harrison, Curt Shields, Mark Hensley, Oliver Smith, Linda Fisher, and Deb Silver.
"The fair went well, and I want to thank everyone who attended," said Lamoni City Administrator/Clerk Barb Stuck. "It was encouraging to see so many people sign up to participate." Both Stuck and Deputy Clerk Tami Shaw, who co-organized the event, expressed enthusiasm for next year's sixth annual fair while welcoming a brief respite after the busy days leading up to this year’s event.