Wilson Elementary principal, Jeff Hendred, received the 2020 Gene Schultz Community Service Award Thursday from Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) representatives. Wilson students and staff, community leaders, school officials, and Hendred's children were able to attend as well.
Since 1993, Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (formerly the Ottumwa Chamber) has presented the Gene Schultz Community Service Award to a person demonstrating exemplary commitment to the community in a voluntary capacity. According to GOPIP, Hendred has a long list of accomplishments but his nomination summarized him in two words: Passion and Spirit.
One nomination said of Hendred “In everything he has done or does in our community, Jeff gives his best and is a face of positive encouragement and hope for the future.” Another nomination added “He’s a pastor, a fundraiser, a small-business owner, and serves on countless boards and committees. His smile lights up every room he enters and he never shies away from the challenges of our community.”