This past summer Wright County’s own Duane Asbe was recognized in the first ever batch of “rural heroes” at the 5th Annual Iowa Rural Summit held at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids.
According to the Iowa Rural Development Council (IRDC), “The Rural Summit brings together leaders from small towns across Iowa each year, and this year’s event included a Rural Recognition ceremony that paid tribute to a group of individuals who have made a difference in their rural community or region.”
Asbe was one of 13 individuals honored at the summit in August. “Duane was selected for his impact in Clarion and throughout Wright County over many years,” said Mark Reinig, board chairman of the IRDC which hosts the annual Rural Summit. “His work shows how small communities can thrive through great leadership and innovative projects.”
The award was presented to Asbe by Rand Fisher, IRDC Vice Chair and Iowa Area Development Group President, who was also the individual who nominated Asbe. Fisher discussed Asbe’s many laudable accomplishments in the presentation. He brought up Asbe’s work with the Wright County Charitable Foundation which Asbe has worked with since it was founded in 2004 and was the first president.
Fisher noted, “The Wright County Charitable Foundation is one of the most progressive and impactful in the state.” Asbe added that he is proud of the impact that the foundation has had helping revitalize the county and towns in the last several years.
Fisher also brought up Asbe’s work with planned giving on behalf of Iowa Specialty Hospitals and Clinics as well as his work chairing a number of capital campaigns through the years. “He has led by example as a giver and someone who inspires others,” Fisher emphasized.
For his part, Asbe was proud to receive the honor. He says that service to his county and community has always been an important part of his life. Whether it was his past involvement in non-profits like 4-H, his service to Clarion as a former councilmember and now mayor, or on a larger county capacity, Asbe has been committed to the well-being of rural people and groups for decades and isn’t slowing up any time soon.
