It was a treat to have Lee & Lisa Pool travel from Elkader, IA, to visit Camp Courageous and present a check from the Joanne Kothenbeutel Trust.

Don Kothenbeutel and his wife, Joanne “Jo” Kothenbeutel of Garner, IA, were highly dedicated, lifelong members of the Lions Clubs of Iowa. Don served as a Lions Club member for 41 years and held the office of District Governor twice. In September 2024, the organization honored their tremendous impact by presenting them with the 2024 Scott Distinguished Legacy Award through the Iowa KidSight program.

Following their passing, a trust was established to benefit Lions projects, including Camp Courageous, Iowa KidSight, and Camp Hertko Hollow. Don & Jo had visited Camp Courageous on numerous occasions and had fallen in love with the Camp’s mission.

Lee & Lisa were given a tour of Camp Courageous, where they could truly sense what Jo and Don saw in the Camp and why they were so passionate about supporting it.

It is especially fascinating that Lee has spent his life’s career as an educator with the Keystone AEA (Northeast Iowa Area Education Agency), working in the area of special needs. Through this generous trust, Lee continues to help thousands more—carrying forward the legacy of Don & Jo.

What a beautiful example of a life of service continuing to make a difference, even beyond one’s lifetime. ❤️

—cwb