In rural Iowa, communities like Ackley are built on something enduring: neighbors caring for neighbors. Few places reflect that spirit more than The Village of Ackley.

This month, we are excited to announce the relaunch of our Village Foundation! Today, we invite you to join Giving From the Heart — a campaign rooted in stewardship, trust, and a shared commitment to ensuring our elders can continue to receive quality care close to home.

Across Iowa, rural nursing homes are disappearing at an alarming rate. Over the past three years, many facilities have closed, forcing residents to move far from their families, churches, and lifelong communities.

For Ackley, the stakes are especially high.

The Village of Ackley is not only home to our elders — it is also the second-largest employer in our community. It supports local families, provides stable jobs, and strengthens our town's economic fabric. When we invest in The Village, we invest in compassionate care, a strong local workforce, and a vibrant community.

In 2025, The Village proudly returned to its original name, reaffirming its deep roots and renewed commitment to the community. That trust was reflected when neighbors came together to raise $56,000 for a new resident bus, ensuring safe transportation for appointments, activities, and meaningful connections. This leadership and board have worked diligently to stabilize our finances and be fiscally responsible. We certainly are back on the right path.

Now, Giving from the Heart allows us to build up our foundation to focus on critical facility needs that directly impact resident comfort, safety, and long-term sustainability — including a new boiler, air conditioning unit, roofing, lighting, and more.