As a longtime resident of Mount Vernon, Fred Burke is committed to supporting local organizations.
“There are a lot of worthy, caring organizations that help people in Iowa, and in the nation,” said Burke. “But by contributing to Southeast Linn Community Center, I know the donation is going to local people.”
In March, Burke donated $22,425 to the Southeast Linn Community Center, with the bulk of the donation to support SELCC’s food pantry.
“We are very grateful for Mr. Burke’s support,” said Nicole McAlexander, executive director of Southeast Linn Community Center. “We are honored to be the recipients of such a generous gift, which will help us continue to provide for the essential needs of our neighbors.”
A 1970 graduate of Cornell College, Burke designated $2,000 for Natalia’s Food Pantry, a collaboration between his alma mater and SELCC. Located in Cornell’s Ebersole Health and Wellbeing Center, the Southeast Linn Community Center satellite site offers food, personal care items, and clothing to Cornell students and staff.
SELCC’s school supply program and holiday food boxes program each received $1,000. Burke also designated $500 for the Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation scholarship program.
“Southeast Linn Community Center does a wonderful job of serving people in our area,” Burke said. “There seems to be a need.”