HCREC Member Shines the Light on Dunlap StoryWalk

Since 2021, the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives of Iowa and Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives has hosted the Shine the Light contest. This contest celebrates the everyday heroes in our communities. Volunteers who give their time, energy and heart to make a difference.

Co-op members throughout the state can nominate an individual who is making a difference in their community. If that individual is one of three selected winners, their nonprofit organization of choice receives a $3,000 donation.

This year, Harrison County REC was pleased that our member Jill Schaben, took the time to shine a light on Jake Schaben with the Dunlap Betterment Group and the Dunlap StoryWalk. While only three nominees out of 83 entries could be selected as winners, Harrison County REC believes that every story shared deserves recognition. To honor their efforts and the incredible work being done, Harrison County REC is making a $100 donation to the Dunlap Betterment Group in support of the Dunlap StoryWalk. Below is the nomination and story behind Jake and his contributions to his community.

“Jake Schaben has spent decades quietly making Dunlap, Iowa, a stronger community

through selfless volunteer service. While he has never sought recognition, his leadership and willingness to serve have left a lasting impact on local organizations, families, and future generations.

For more than a decade, Jake has served on the Dunlap Community Development Corporation and Dunlap Betterment Group Board, helping lead housing and economic development initiatives, fundraising efforts, membership drives, and community improvement projects. His steady leadership has helped strengthen the foundation for Dunlap’s continued growth. Jake is also a familiar face at many of Dunlap’s signature events.

 He has volunteered for the Fourth of July celebration, Art at the Park, the Jason Hofman Memorial Tractor Pull, and the St. John Lutheran Barbecue Contest. Whether he’s supervising inflatables, setting up events, fundraising, or simply filling whatever role needs to be done, Jake approaches every opportunity with humility and a servant’s heart.

His commitment extends to his church and to the next generation. Jake has served on the St. John Lutheran Church Council, including as council president, where he has helped organize fundraisers, community dinners, auctions, and Worship in the Park. He also volunteers as a youth sports coach, helping children build confidence, teamwork, and character through athletics.

Jake has devoted countless hours to agricultural education and youth leadership as well. He serves on the Boyer Valley Ag Foundation Board, has volunteered at 4-H fundraisers, and has mentored Boyer Valley FFA students in agricultural finance competitions, sharing his professional expertise to prepare young people for future success. What sets Jake apart is not one project or one leadership position—it’s his consistency. If there is a need in Dunlap, chances are Jake is already helping. He gives his time generously, encourages others to volunteer, and leads by example without ever seeking the spotlight. His quiet leadership has inspired countless others to become involved in making our community a better place.

 If selected, Jake would direct the $3,000 donation to the Dunlap StoryWalk. His family has invested significant volunteer time into this community literacy project, which encourages children and families to read together while enjoying the outdoors. The funds would help purchase new books, replace damaged plexiglass panels, maintain the display structures, and ensure the StoryWalk continues serving local families for years to come. Jake Schaben embodies the spirit of Iowa’s Shine the Light program. His unwavering commitment to service, his humble leadership, and his dedication to strengthening his hometown have made a lasting difference in the lives of those around him.”

Interested in sharing your support for the Dunlap StoryWalk?  Financial contributions can be sent to United Bank of Iowa in Dunlap marked to the care of the Dunlap StoryWalk/Ashley Schaben, you can also contribute through the Venmo (@Ashley-Schaben-2). The Dunlap StoryWalk can be found on Facebook where they post updates and the current books on display for participants to enjoy!