Dinner Helps First Responder Monument Move Closer To Reality

Heather Nelson and her son Elliot Nelson teamed up to help serve food for the first responder monument.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – It may have been Mothers Day, but many came out to have some pasta, and help raise some money for a future first responders memorial to be placed at Forest Cemetery.

16-year-old Gareth Stefanc of Boy Scouts of America Troop 71 is continuing to work on earning his Eagle Scout rank, while also honoring first responders who have played an important role in his life.

WanderLunch’s Heather Nelson helped to prepare all of the food that was served and was assisted by Oskaloosa Knights of Columbus Council 4108 and BSA Troop 71 & 219.

Oskaloosa Fareway and Hy-Vee donated food for the meal.

St. Mary’s Catholic Church donated the space to hold the event.

Gareth said that he should be able to order the monument soon, and the hope is that it will be delivered by the end of summer, with an installation planned at some point this fall.

Gareth’s father Scott Stefanc said that September is the target month, and there will need to be a work day for landscaping and laying of the brick before that can happen. “It would be great if we could do it on 9/11.”

Stefanc says that additional funds to help make the project are still welcome, as well as materials such as mulch, landscaping stone, paving, sand and more.

Stefanc added that they are now taking orders for bricks and would like to add one in memory of someone, or just to support the project.

If you have any additional questions, you can email Stefanc at gman0206@icloud.com or visit them on the project Facebook Page here – https://www.facebook.com/Mahaska-County-First-Responders-Monument-2265493410374268/