KDSN RADIO News
Rebecca Erlemeier of Harlan Named 2025 Iowa Mother of the Year®
American Mothers, Inc.® is proud to share that Rebecca Erlemeier of Harlan, Iowa, was announced as the 2025 Iowa Mother of the Year®. She was chosen for her outstanding contributions as a mother, ministry leader, mentor, and community volunteer who has faithfully served her family and neighbors with compassion, strength, and purpose.
As the mother of five children, Rebecca Erlemeier lives a life rooted in faith, family, and service. Her youngest son, Isaac, who has Down Syndrome and is on the autism spectrum, has further deepened her understanding of love, advocacy, and the beauty of every individual’s unique journey.
Originally from northeast Nebraska, Rebecca was shaped by a childhood grounded in faith, music, and education. Following a call to ministry, she attended Bible college and missions school, and in 1998, married her husband Jeffrey. Together, they have spent 25 years in ministry, currently serving at Faith Family Church in Harlan, where Rebecca is the Assistant Pastor and Worship Director.
In this role, she helps oversee multiple departments and outreach efforts while mentoring women, teens, and children in both formal and informal settings. Rebecca’s ministry extends well beyond the church walls. She has volunteered her time at a local pregnancy resource center, where she supported women facing unplanned pregnancies. Moved by their stories, she now organizes annual community drives to provide diapers, wipes, baby essentials, and financial support to mothers in need.
Rebecca has also served at the local elementary school, helping children with reading—a passion that stems from teaching all five of her own children to read and from her lifelong love of books. A central part of her impact has been mentoring young women and teens through Faith Family Church’s Elevate youth program and other young adult ministries.
From leading group talks on purpose and integrity to mentoring one-on-one through counseling, coffee conversations, music lessons, and small group dinners, Rebecca has been a steady source of encouragement and guidance.
Rebecca Erlemeier was recognized along with other State Mothers of the Year® from across the country during the 90th National Convention of American Mothers, Inc.® in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from April 24th–26th, 2025.
