10/06/2025
Press Release:
Pella Corporation recently awarded a $1,500 grant to Western Iowa EMS K9 Association through the Rolscreen Foundation.
Western Iowa EMS K-9 is a non-profit that was started in early 2025 and provides services to an eight-country region, including Ida, Woodbury, Cherokee, Buena Vista, Sac, Crawford, Carroll, and Monona. Western Iowa EMS K9 Association provides a trained K-9, named Ivy, who is trained in search and rescue techniques. Stephanie Renze of Auburn and Larry Folk of Battle Creek started this non-profit as they saw a need while serving as first responders in their communities. Search and rescue dogs provide tremendous value during devastating situations that can be anything from natural disasters, devastated homes, and missing people to name a few. During the flooding of 2025, K-9s assisted with locating victims who needed to be rescued and were often in need of medical attention. The fund raising for this program helps to support the training needed for the K-9 and other needs of the program that is run by volunteers.
Danielle Leonard, Pella Corporation, Carroll Operations Plant Manager shared, “We’re proud to support the Western Iowa EMS K-9 Association and their commitment to our communities. Ivy’s search and rescue work, backed by dedicated volunteers, fills a critical need during times of crisis. We’re honored to contribute to such an impactful program.”
Pictured from left to right: Danielle Leonard, Pella Corporation Plant Manager; Larry Folk, Western Iowa EMS K-9 volunteer; and Ivy, trained K-9
