Earlier this summer, Touchstone Energy Cooperatives of Iowa sponsored the 3rd annual Shine the Light contest to highlight our cooperative commitment to community. During the month of June, members and employees of Iowa's locally owned electric cooperatives were invited to nominate volunteers in their communities who are working to improve quality of life. 

This contest gives our members and employees an opportunity to show their appreciation for family, friends and neighbors who are making a positive difference in the community. 126 nominations were submitted from across the state, highlighting the work of many incredible Iowans. Three winners were selected, including a local volunteer, Erica Lindaman of Clarion. 

Erica was nominated by several members and employees of Prairie Energy Co-op. Erica was named as a 2023 Shine the Light contest winner for her work with Gift of Giving. A fourth-grade teacher, Erica is well aware of the need for clothes, food, furniture and other vital resources in the community. During the COVID pandemic, Erica was instrumental in collecting items and sponsoring families in need during the holiday season. She has continued to organize resources without judgement for those in Wright County ever since. Gift of Giving will put the $2,500 donation to good use to keep this local program running. Learn more about Gift of Giving on its Facebook community page.