Photo of Lana Zimmer, Governing Board Chair of the Jasper Newton Foundation
For Lana Zimmer, “loving where you live” means investing in the future of the place you call home. As Governing Board Chair of the Jasper Newton Foundation, Lana believes community strength comes from people who choose to contribute their time, skills, and passion today so that others can benefit tomorrow.
Lana’s own connection to her community begins at home. When she’s not volunteering with local organizations, she stays busy with a wide range of hands-on pursuits.
“I have plenty of hobbies,” she said. “Following my grandchildren’s activities, raising chickens, growing produce, fermenting and preserving food, reconditioning vintage sewing machines, and construction projects. I work on those activities when I am not volunteering in my community organizations.”
The rewards of working with youth, raising plants & animals, and building something new all carry a personal benefit. However, sharing those rewards with her community enriches Lana’s experience.
“I love Smith’s True Value, because they have most of what I need for my projects,” Lana said. “I also appreciate Strack’s, where I have a great working relationship with the produce department, and have frequently supplied vegetables from my farm, Heritage Acres.”
While those projects are rewarding, Lana knows she can only do so much on her own and seeks collaboration with others. That philosophy has guided her efforts at JNF and other organizations.
“I got involved because I believe deeply in the power of place-based organizations and the vital role they play in strengthening communities, and have witnessed firsthand the tremendous impact the Foundation has made across Jasper & Newton counties,” said Lana. “ I’m also on the Board of Supervisors for Jasper County Soil and Water Conservation District and am now the Chairperson. There, we work with local farmers and citizens on projects to improve soil and water health and protect and preserve natural resources.”
Building stronger communities depends on everyone’s involvement. Lana encourages the people of her community to find ways to contribute where they live.
“The strength of every community is built on the willingness of people to volunteer because they care about their fellow citizens and the quality of life where they live,” Lana said. “Throughout my career as an educator, I have always believed in creating opportunities for people to engage more deeply with their communities.”
The Jasper Newton Foundation’s motto, “Love Where You Live,” reflects a broader belief that communities thrive when residents take an active role in supporting them. No matter their role in it.
“At its heart, it is the belief that the future of any community depends on its residents’ commitment to supporting its overall well-being. From public schools and cultural heritage to the arts, public spaces, local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and social support systems, every part of a community contributes to its vitality. The more people understand their community—its strengths, its history, and its needs—the better life will be for everyone.”
Lana’s dedication reflects that philosophy in action. Through volunteer leadership, local partnerships, and everyday contributions, she continues working to help build a stronger future for Jasper and Newton counties.
YOU can make your own lasting impact on the stories of Jasper and Newton Counties. Your actions, big or small, make a difference!
