The Dell Rapids Citizen of the Year (COTY) award committee recently announced it had chosen Carolyn Drew as 2025 Citizen of the Year. Drew was nominated by Sandra Lamer and Virgil Klein, who cited her leadership and dedication to numerous community service organizations.
"Carolyn leads by example," wrote Lamer. "She mentors others along the way, and is able to see and share hope, even on cloudy days."
Both Lamer and Klein cited Drew's dedication to The Storehouse food pantry — purchasing needed supplies, stocking shelves, overseeing volunteers, and greeting the guests who use this vital community resource. "For many years, Carolyn has been a driving force behind this ministry," wrote Klein. "And it's often not the most glamorous of leadership positions."

In addition to The Storehouse, it was noted that Drew volunteers for numerous other service groups, including Church on the Street, Laundry with Love, Dell Rapids Lions Club, Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids, and the Dell Rapids Community Recreation Committee.
"Carolyn's focus on helping others, her understanding and empathetic energy, and her outgoing personality are inherent in everything she does," wrote Lamer.
"This is the third year for the COTY award," said committee member Sue Hovey. "There are so many worthy nominations, and the final decision is never fast and easy. Carolyn's nominations stood out because of her involvement in multiple avenues of community service."
Dell Rapids Mayor Marsha Symens and the City Council proclaimed June 28th "Carolyn Drew Day" in Dell Rapids. Drew was honored at several events during Quarry Days, June 27-29.

In late 2022, the Dell Rapids Lions Club established the Citizen of the Year award. Members wanted to honor local citizens "who serve the community, contribute to social progress and the creation of happiness, and are an inspiration to others." The Club was joined in the effort by the City and the Chamber of Commerce, and the first award was presented in 2023.

COTY committee members choose a "hometown hero" from nominations received from the public. They look for someone who is generous with their time and talents in helping others; those special people who pitch in, often behind the scenes, to lend help to someone in need or to a project that benefits the whole community. They look at nominees who help the community through their volunteer efforts and personal involvement. A nominee's leadership abilities, significant achievements, community activities, greatest strengths, and special qualities are also considered.

Caption: Lion Carolyn Drew chosen Dell Rapids Citizen of the Year