2025 Citizen of the Year: Carolyn Drew
The Dell Rapids Citizen of the Year (COTY) award committee is pleased to announce it has chosen Carolyn Drew as 2025 Citizen of the Year. Drew was nominated by Sandra Lamer and Virgil Klein, who cited her leadership and dedication to numerous community service organizations.
“Carolyn leads by example,” wrote Lamer. “She mentors others along the way, and is able to see and share hope, even on cloudy days.”
Both Lamer and Klein cited Drew’s dedication to The Storehouse food pantry — purchasing needed supplies, stocking shelves, overseeing volunteers, and greeting the guests who use this vital community resource. “For many years, Carolyn has been a driving force behind this ministry,” wrote Klein. “And it’s often not the most glamorous of leadership positions.”
In addition to The Storehouse, it was noted that Drew volunteers for numerous other service groups, including Church on the Street, Laundry with Love, Dell Rapids Lions Club, Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids, and the Dell Rapids Community Recreation Committee.
“Carolyn’s focus on helping others, her understanding and empathetic energy, and her outgoing personality are inherent in everything she does,” wrote Lamer.
“This is the third year for the COTY award,” said committee member Sue Hovey. “There are so many worthy nominations, and the final decision is never fast and easy. Carolyn’s nominations stood out because of her involvement in multiple avenues of community service.”
Dell Rapids Mayor Marsha Symens will present a certificate to Drew at 7 p.m., Monday, June 16, at City Hall, proclaiming June 28th “Carolyn Drew Day” in Dell Rapids.
Drew will be honored at several events during Quarry Days, June 27-29:
— Toss out the first pitch at “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” 8 p.m., Friday, June 27, Rickeman Field
— Parade Marshall, 10 a.m., Saturday, June 28
— Introduction at the street dance 9 p.m., Saturday, June 28, Main Street
— Award presentation 6 p.m., Sunday, June 29, City Park Band Shell
In addition, Drew will light the City’s Christmas tree lights ahead of the “Christmas in the Dells” parade on Main Street Saturday, Dec. 6th.
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