KDSN RADIO News
Governor's Volunteer Award Presented to Dunlap Man
Donald Thompson is an active 85-year-old in his community. He volunteers his time during the winter months to open and close the Nativity scene in Dunlap and is a prominent figure at his church. He is the Vice President of the Dunlap Senior Center and delivers meals there every day. “I serve meals every noon and I help with dishes when I’m needed. I do repair work, like changing lightbulbs and putting new batteries in the fire alarm. And cleaning up when needed. I’ve been doing that for probably about 15 years now.” Because of his dedication to his community, he was nominated for the Governor’s Volunteer Award. Thompson was nominated along with 300 individuals and 40 groups by Julie Bergeson, who is the RSVP Director for the Iowa Department on Aging. Thompson was presented the Governor’s Volunteer Award on Thursday, June 15th in Ankeny. When asked why he volunteers, Thompson said, “It’s a satisfying deal to help others, especially some of the people that are less fortunate and have a hard time getting around. I give rides to some of the older people in town to get places.” Thompson said volunteering in the community is a major thing someone can do. “I think the small towns need volunteers and that’s one of the things I do, and I’m willing to do that and enjoy doing that.” He added that he can’t take all the credit because his wife volunteers alongside him.
