1015 Transit is inviting residents throughout the Ottumwa area to help light up the community this holiday season while supporting local veterans through its “Lighting Up the Community for Our Veterans” Christmas Light and Decoration Contest and Fundraiser.
The holiday event encourages homeowners to decorate their properties, spread Christmas cheer and help raise awareness and financial support for D.R.I.V.E. (Driving Regional Iowa Veterans Everyday), a program providing transportation assistance to veterans throughout Southeast Iowa.
Any residential household located within Ottumwa city limits or within two miles of the city is eligible to enter. There is no entry fee, and homeowners may enter only one property.
Entries must be submitted by December 14. Participants can complete the online entry form, pick up a printed copy at the 1015 Transit office on East Main Street, or email their information to secretary@1015transit.com.
A map featuring participating homes will be published December 15, giving community members an opportunity to tour the decorated properties and enjoy the holiday displays.
Voting also begins December 15 and will remain open through December 27 at 11:59 p.m. Community members can vote for their favorite homes through the 1015 Transit website under the D.R.I.V.E. tab. Only one vote per person is permitted. Votes should consider overall creativity, presentation and holiday spirit, with decorations visible from the street.
Three winning households will be selected based on the number of votes received. The grand prize winner will receive a Christmas gift basket filled with donated gifts and surprises from local businesses and community members. Second- and third-place winners will also receive prize baskets.
Winners will be announced December 28 at 10:15 a.m.
Community members and local businesses are also encouraged to support the fundraiser by donating gifts, gift cards, products, services, experiences or monetary contributions. Donations will help provide prizes for the winning households, while monetary donations will support the D.R.I.V.E. veteran transportation program.
According to 1015 Transit, the organization has invested an average of $150,000 annually over the past five-plus years in providing free transportation to veterans in Southeast Iowa.
D.R.I.V.E. was established to help fund and sustain the growing transportation program. Organizers say the holiday fundraiser is an opportunity for the community to come together and give back to those who have served.
To enter the contest, make a donation or cast a vote, visit 1015transit.com and select the D.R.I.V.E. tab. Additional updates will also be shared on the 10-15 Transit Facebook page.
Source: 1015 Transit / D.R.I.V.E.
