Chrystal James, Iowan of the Day, talks about how rewarding volunteering is and what her day will look like at the Iowa State Fair.
James was nominated by 90-year-old Beverly Michael. James was selected among nine other Iowans who exemplify volunteerism. James says she was pleased that her lifelong friend nominated her.
“She (Michael) is an example of volunteering being ageless.” Chrystal James, Iowan of the Day
James will be honored on Tuesday at noon on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage. James talks about a quote she saw on a poster in a hotel lobby by Mahatma Gandhi and how it is what volunteering looks like.
“‘To find yourself is to lose yourself in other people lives’, that is such an impacting statement.” Chrystal James, Iowan of the Day
James says she thanks all of the sponsors and staff at the Fair. James mentions what her day will look like after the presentation and an interview.
“We are given the tickets to come into the fair. We are also guests at the Thomas Rhett show at the grand stand. Following that, we are given a night in the Marriot Hotel. All of this is all over the top and very generous.” Chrystal James, Iowan of the Day
James talks about how she started volunteering.
“I got thrown into volunteering by my parents, Matthew and Harriet Karr. They are deceased but in spirit here today. They demonstrated to our family using outreach.” Chrystal James, Iowan of the Day
James continues with how her family has had an impact on her life.
“A retired teacher in our family and wonderful family member, Edith Reid. She encouraged my sister Connie and me to be a teacher and helped us with positive words and ideas and a true love of teaching. I taught for 35 years, 32 with Ottumwa Schools and 3 with Fairfield Schools. When I retired, I said I’d love to volunteer. So I volunteered at Seton Catholic.” Chrystal James, Iowan of the Day
James says she loves volunteering at the schools but has a heart for patients at the care centers.
“One of my favorite volunteering activities is to work with the nursing homes and care centers. Sometimes I’m there to volunteer in their chapel. I go to the hospice house with all these care centers with music as a vocal program. I sing with them and to them, and also one-on-one with patients.” Chrystal James, Iowan of the Day
James says volunteering is very rewarding and it’s the spark of other peoples’ enthusiasm that keeps her going. She’s looking forward to her time at the Fair.
“There is something for everyone at the Iowa State Fair.” Chrystal James, Iowan of the Day
James says everyone is invited to come to the Iowa State Fair and share this honorable moment with her.
