On a chilly Iowa evening not long ago, neighbors gathered to share a simple pasta dish—steam rising from the bowls, laughter filling the room. What began as a warm meal soon became something even more meaningful: a reminder of how food, conversation, and kindness can bring people together across cultures and experiences. It’s in moments like these, where community is built one shared story at a time, that the true heart of volunteerism shines.
This spirit of connection is exactly what inspires Tara Brown of Iowa State Bank in her work with Community and Culture Connections.
Tara’s journey began through relationships in her church, where she saw firsthand the challenges faced by new residents in rural Iowa. Motivated by a desire to make a difference, she began volunteering to help individuals develop English language skills, living skills, and life skills—tools that empower people to thrive in their new home.
What does Tara enjoy most?
“I’ve had the opportunity to develop great friendships, learn new things about our world, and even improve my own foreign language skills,” she shares. For Tara, this work isn’t just about teaching—it’s about creating an inclusive community where everyone can achieve more.
Her efforts strengthen our community by fostering valuable relationships and breaking down barriers. And here’s something you might not realize: you don’t need to be a professional teacher to make an impact. As Tara says, “A giving heart, some time, and simple lessons about things many of us take for granted can help others immensely.”
Community and Culture Connections began as a grassroots effort—neighbors recognizing a need and choosing to meet it with open hands and open hearts. Tara’s story is a reminder that the simplest acts of kindness can ripple outward in meaningful ways. Just like a shared bowl of pasta on a winter evening can spark conversation and connection, Tara’s volunteer work continues to bring people together, one relationship at a time.
We’re proud to support employees like Tara who help build a community where everyone feels welcome at the table. If you’d like to learn more or get involved, reach out to Community and Culture Connections at 786-367-8607 or candcconnections2023@gmail.com and discover how you, too, can help create moments of warmth, understanding, and shared humanity in our community.
Tara Brown is Assistant Vice President, Network Administrator & Information Systems Security Officer at Iowa State Bank, Algona. At Iowa State Bank, we’re committed to excellence in customer and community service. We’re proud to spotlight employees who generously share their time and talents to strengthen the communities where we live and work.
This spirit of connection is exactly what inspires Tara Brown of Iowa State Bank in her work with Community and Culture Connections.
Tara’s journey began through relationships in her church, where she saw firsthand the challenges faced by new residents in rural Iowa. Motivated by a desire to make a difference, she began volunteering to help individuals develop English language skills, living skills, and life skills—tools that empower people to thrive in their new home.
What does Tara enjoy most?
“I’ve had the opportunity to develop great friendships, learn new things about our world, and even improve my own foreign language skills,” she shares. For Tara, this work isn’t just about teaching—it’s about creating an inclusive community where everyone can achieve more.
Her efforts strengthen our community by fostering valuable relationships and breaking down barriers. And here’s something you might not realize: you don’t need to be a professional teacher to make an impact. As Tara says, “A giving heart, some time, and simple lessons about things many of us take for granted can help others immensely.”
Community and Culture Connections began as a grassroots effort—neighbors recognizing a need and choosing to meet it with open hands and open hearts. Tara’s story is a reminder that the simplest acts of kindness can ripple outward in meaningful ways. Just like a shared bowl of pasta on a winter evening can spark conversation and connection, Tara’s volunteer work continues to bring people together, one relationship at a time.
We’re proud to support employees like Tara who help build a community where everyone feels welcome at the table. If you’d like to learn more or get involved, reach out to Community and Culture Connections at 786-367-8607 or candcconnections2023@gmail.com and discover how you, too, can help create moments of warmth, understanding, and shared humanity in our community.
Tara Brown is Assistant Vice President, Network Administrator & Information Systems Security Officer at Iowa State Bank, Algona. At Iowa State Bank, we’re committed to excellence in customer and community service. We’re proud to spotlight employees who generously share their time and talents to strengthen the communities where we live and work.
