July 28, 2026
January 9, 2026
New Hope hosted its 2025 Annual Appreciation and Recognition Dinner on December 2, 2025, at The Carrollton, recognizing community members, supporters, and staff who contributed to the organization’s work serving adults with disabilities across west-central Iowa. Frank Hermsen served as New Hope Executive Director for more than 30 years. This year, an award was established using memorial gifts received in his honor following his passing in June 2025. As described by former co-workers, he was not just a leader; he was a mentor, a believer in the dignity of every person, and a true friend with a tireless commitment to New Hope. Each recipient received a commemorative plaque and a $500 award. The nomination committee could not choose just one winner, so this year, the award was presented to two exceptional Direct Support Professionals.
Tina Allen, Community, for extraordinary dedication in community living support
Her nomination read, “One individual in the home Tina works in, lives with brittle diabetes and uses a catheter. Last year, he faced a frightening decline in health, spending time in the hospital and nursing home. His future was uncertain. However, Tina created notebooks tracking his blood sugars, prepared his meals, helped him with personal care, and ensured his basic needs were always met. He had lost more than 30 pounds before moving to the home Tina works in. Recently, she asked his family to buy larger jeans because he had finally gained weight. That kind of turnaround doesn’t happen by accident; it happens because someone is paying attention. Someone is committed and cares.
Tina also ensures clients stay engaged in the community, from rides through Swan Lake to attending Band Day and New Hope activities. And she doesn’t just drive the bus to events; she manages everything. At Regional Special Olympics bowling, she monitored his blood sugars, assisted with his catheter, and still managed to support nine other bowlers. She repeated this entire effort again at State Special Olympics Bowling.
At their house, when a new individual moved in, she reconfigured the space to meet everyone’s needs. She anticipates problems before they start. When something in the home breaks, Tina uses every resource available: New Hope maintenance, her own ingenuity, even her husband to ensure the home stays safe and welcoming. She also volunteered to stay overnight for an individual’s sleep study because she understands that familiarity and comfort matter.”
Rachel Wieland, Campus, for exemplary leadership and creativity in campus services
Her nomination read, “Working in our ICF on campus, Rachel is known for creating the highest-quality experiences for those she supports. On any given day, you might find her in costume, volunteering on her day off, helping at an offsite event, or stepping into a completely new role, always with a smile. On the day of a recent Family Association meeting, she created a backdrop, gathered families, and took photos so those moments could be remembered forever. As a Hab Tech, and far beyond that role, she invests countless extra hours into creating opportunities that make life fuller and more fun for individuals.
When complimented, Rachel seems genuinely puzzled, as though she cannot understand why anyone would praise her for doing what feels right. She plans large events months in advance and never overlooks the small details. She brightens coworkers’ days by leaving thoughtful notes or small tokens in their mailboxes. She encourages and uplifts others. She doesn’t want the spotlight; she wants the individuals to shine.
She does things the right way, even when no one is watching. Rachel advocates fiercely for individuals, ensures opportunities and choices are honored, and treats every person: coworker, family member, or individual served with dignity and respect. She follows procedures meticulously, educates others, and upholds the standards that keep people safe and supported. She is a seasoned mentor to both new staff and managers, grounding them in not only the “how”, also the “why.”
Rachel is often the sounding board others rely on when trying something new, offering insight, creativity, and encouragement. She is regularly sought out for committees and work groups because of her professionalism, her depth of knowledge, and her unshakably positive attitude. She teaches, models excellence, and embodies every value this award represents.”
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