Greenfield family honored for volunteerism

DES MOINES – The Lynn Bohling family of Greenfield received a Governor’s Volunteer Award from Governor Kim Reynolds and Lt. Governor Adam Gregg during a special recognition ceremony held Sept. 27 in Pleasant Hill.

The Bohling Family, including Lynn and Elaine Bohling of Greenfield, DeEtta (Bohling) Lee of Ottawa, Kansas, Dylan and Natalie (Bohling) Reed of Norwalk and Hank Bohling and Shelby Brewer of Greenfield was honored with a group award, nominated by The Living History Farms. Bohlings have been volunteering with the farms for 20 years, starting with the Family Halloween event when their girls were in middle school. They continue to volunteer for many of the special events that take place at the Living History Farms throughout the year.

“Neighbor helping neighbor is as Iowan as a pork tenderloin at the county fair — we’ve seen it time and time again,” said Governor Kim Reynolds. “Volunteerism is who we are as Iowans. I’m honored to recognize those who continue to give back and help their fellow Iowans.”

More than 540 awards are being presented this year during ceremonies held at several locations around the state. It is estimated that more than 27,000 hours of service, with an economic impact of more than $693,000, were contributed by this year’s honorees during the past twelve months.

“Volunteering of your time and talents has a positive impact on our communities and the people being helped,” said Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg. “The dedication of volunteers often encourages others to get involved, which is why Iowa continues to be a top state in volunteerism.”

Coordinated by Volunteer Iowa, the Governor's Volunteer Award program — now in its 36th year — provides an easy way for Iowa nonprofits, charitable organizations, and government entities to honor their volunteers with a prestigious, state-level award. More information is available at volunteeriowa.org.