A non-profit organization that’s been in Jefferson for a few years is celebrating its expansion to a new facility with an event.

Midwest Missions recently moved into the former Aueron building at 219 North Chestnut Street. Iowa Coordinator Danille Curtis says the organization focuses on four areas to help less fortunate individuals and families with disaster relief, health, education and micro business. Curtis tells Raccoon Valley Radio Midwest Missions is based around the Springfield, Illinois area and when she got involved with the group following a mission trip with her church in 2019, that’s when Jefferson became a permanent collection site for donations as she explains what was happening with the Springfield location.

“And that’s actually one of the reasons why we became the first off site location for Midwest Mission is they are so booked up in their calendar in Springfield, they’re booking out to 2025 right now for volunteers. So we are hoping to absorb some of that off of their calendar to bring those volunteers here instead of all going to Springfield. So it’s just an amazing experience. People once they come and experience it, they want more.” 

Curtis says they were using a trailer to collect items and would hold “Volunteer Days” where volunteers would help prepare the donated items for distribution across Iowa, the country and the world. However, she notes they discovered they needed more space and now they have it. Curtis points out at the new location they will have volunteers prepare personal dignity kits with hygiene items, student kits with school supplies and sleeping mats made out of recycled plastic grocery bags that are woven on looms. 

The building is leased through Greene County Development Corporation. The grand opening will be from 10am-2pm on Saturday, with a ribbon cutting at 10am. Attendees can help pack rice meals and weave sleeping mats, along with enjoying tours and refreshments.