Photo of Jacob Shufflebarger of JNF’s Governing Board and Scholarship Committee
Why wait for someone else to do it? That’s the question JNF board member, Jacob Shufflebarger, asks right before diving in to help.
Between his eagerness and love for the people of Jasper and Newton Counties, Jacob is likely a friendly face you’ve seen around. Whether he’s performing with his cover band, Holley Drive, at the Newton County Pun’kin Vine Fair or supporting local businesses, Jacob stays active in his community—especially when he needs a morning boost for his busy schedule ahead.
Jacob on guitar with Holley Drive
“I’m a big coffee drinker. My go-to spot when I am in Goodland is The Harvest Hangout for an iced coffee. I am also wishing the best for my favorite breakfast spot, the Good Table in Kentland, as they recover from their recent fire,” he said. “You can’t go wrong with their ham and cheese omelet with the gravy on the omelet, not the hashbrowns. When I need flowers or something unique locally, Market 48 is a great store. For repairs around the home, Hopkins Electric basically has almost every part a house may need without having to drive 30 minutes or more to get it. The crew there also takes care of me with my electrical business when I need a part in a pinch.”
With errands out of the way and energy to spare, Jacob then dives into his community service across a variety of initiatives and programs. Some, including his family.
Team photo of the softball team Jacob coaches
“I enjoy coaching youth softball for my daughter’s team. It has been a great experience, and watching her and her teammates improve every year is always great to see,” he said. “I also help manage our local American Legion Post 23, started helping with Aubrey’s Angels out of Brook in 2025, sit on a Veteran’s Memorial Monument Committee in Kentland, and lastly, I sit on the Kentland Airport Board.”
With such a full plate, it’s a wonder that Jacob has time for JNF’s Governing Board and Scholarship Committee. But for him, if it’s something his community needs, he’ll be the one to do it.
“I like to help out when and where I can,” said Jacob. “I would rather be a person who contributes to something, potentially making it better, than sit back and watch or complain about how things are being done. By being proactive, we all can help move something forward.”
Fortunately, Jacob is joined by many others to serve their community, but more hands are always better, and he encourages everyone to take advantage of the many opportunities that help get things done and build a better future for everyone.
Jacob and his daughter at a local Memorial Day ceremony
“We have a lot of people who are willing to help out in just about any way people can think of. Look at all of our local organizations, for example. People come together to make something happen. From organizing a youth sports league to running a county fair. All volunteers from all walks of life work towards one goal that they achieve every year. Our small-town feel has big opportunities awaiting.”
Thank you for jumping in and getting things done in our community, Jacob. We’re lucky to have people like you driving change.
YOU can make your own lasting impact on the stories of Jasper and Newton Counties, as well. Your actions, big or small, make a difference!
