2023 Lifeliner Magazine --- Issue 2

SPECIAL EDITION: IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION

Supporting, strengthening, and complementing the efforts of the Iowa Motor Truck Association.

Issue 2, 2023

SPECIAL EDITION: IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION

Since 1986, the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation has been in existence yet, we have come to realize that many IMTA members are still unfamiliar with the mission and purpose of the Foundation. We have set out to change that with this special edition of the Lifeliner magazine.

FEATURES

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p14 Pillar 1: IMTA / IMCF Building

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p28 Pillar 3: Workforce Development

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Final Thought

OUR STAFF

BRENDA NEVILLE, CAE President & CEO brenda@iowamotortruck.com

JANELLE STEVENS Director of Communications, Education & Events janelle@iowamotortruck.com

SPONSORS

EMILY KRIEGEL Events & Education Manager emily@iowamotortruck.com

GARY HANDLEY Special Projects Coordinator gary@iowamotortruck.com

KEVIN WILLIAMS Special Projects Coordinator kevin@iowamotortruck.com

MP DESIGN Design & Cover Illustration MPDesign.biz

I was first recruited to get involved with the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation in 2013 by Murry Fitzer. Murry had been asked to move into the chairmanship role specifically to take the Foundation to an even higher level of exposure and service. I wasn’t that excited about serving on the Foundation Board. I already had a lot on my plate, and didn’t feel I had the time, but Murry insisted it would be a rewarding role. For background, Murry was a competitor of mine, so we had known each other for many years but through our service together on the IMTA Board of Directors, we had also become good friends. And because of that friendship, it was difficult to turn him down, especially when you saw his enthusiasm and excitement for the Foundation. Murry viewed the Foundation as an important vehicle in not only complimenting the work of the association but also playing a valuable role in providing financial support to some of the key programs and priorities of the association. Murry was also one of the original architects in developing the plan to transfer ownership of the building to the Foundation which resulted in significant savings in property taxes. And like everything Murry ever did, once he got behind something, he was all in. I reluctantly said yes to a Foundation Board position but quickly discovered that we had something special in the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation. And while I was reluctant at first, that soon disappeared as I learned more about the Foundation and its value. As with any change, the road has been full of peaks and valleys. One of the saddest days for the Foundation was when Murry had to step down as the Foundation Chairman after getting a cancer prognosis that ultimately took his life in July of 2020. While we certainly have missed Murry’s wisdom, guidance and enthusiasm for the Foundation, his legacy lives on as we continue to pursue some of the goals and objectives that he so eloquently laid out for us throughout his tenure as a leader for the Foundation.

Since 1986, the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation has been in existence yet, we have come to realize that many IMTA members are still unfamiliar with the mission and purpose of the Foundation. We have set out to change that and in the upcoming months, you will see more information about the Foundation. And to really kick off this awareness campaign, we are dedicating this issue of the Lifeliner to highlighting and showcasing the many different aspects of the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation.

There are a lot of things going on with the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation and we are very proud of our past achievements and equally excited, and optimistic, for what lies ahead for the Foundation too.

We are hopeful that by the time you get to page 42 of this magazine, you will have a new appreciation and understanding of the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation and even more importantly, share our excitement in the future of Foundation and its ability to make a lasting and important mark on the ongoing efforts of the Iowa Motor Truck Association.

Enjoy the reading and be prepared to be inspired.

THERE ARE A LOT OF THINGS GOING ON WITH THE IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION AND WE ARE VERY PROUD OF OUR PAST ACHIEVEMENTS AND EQUALLY EXCITED, AND OPTIMISTIC, FOR WHAT LIES AHEAD FOR THE FOUNDATION TOO.

STEVE SCHUSTER Chairman, Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Schuster Company

THOMPSON TRUCK & TRAILER

Doing whatever it takes to help deliver what matters.

Throughout the course of our history of IMTA, strong and loyal leaders have been the driving force behind our continued success. IMTA leaders have possessed the vision, the passion, and the desire to get things done and this has always been the heart and soul of who we are. When I first started at IMTA, I was amazed and quite frankly, in awe of the commitment members had to our efforts and I saw that from the beginning with the Foundation.

It was around the same time I was starting at IMTA that the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation (IMCF) was formed. Vern Simpson was the brainchild of the Foundation and his kind, compassionate, and generous spirit made it impossible to table the idea. He was not to be deterred when it came to creating a 501 C 3 that would complement the association’s efforts. His enthusiasm for the foundation was equally matched by his steadfast desire to give back to the state of Iowa.

In its early days, the scholarship program was the focus, and it was a relatively easy way to get folks to step up and donate money. The scholarship program also checked the box of giving back to the State of Iowa by investing in the students through the scholarship program.

For almost two decades the scholarship program was synonymous with the Foundation and countless students were given the financial support needed to get them started on their post high school educational journeys. Vern’s vision became reality, and the scholarship program was the springboard for legitimizing the foundation in its infancy.

The Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation has had many different twists and turns in its 37-year history. As with any new organization, the Foundation experienced its share of highs and lows. A plethora of IMTA members have been involved with its leadership and with each new leader, the Foundation took on a different personality. We launched programs that were widely successful while others failed miserably.

One of the Foundation’s success stories was when it took over the ownership of the IMTA building and the foundation quickly moved into a whole different spectrum of oversight and importance.

With each new chapter, new momentum, new objectives, and new challenges were part of the ever-changing landscape of the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation.

The IMTA members who have continued to step up and provide leadership to the foundation are the real heroes in this journey. The counsel, perseverance, and dedication of the volunteer leaders have been the priceless contributions that truly changed the trajectory for the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation.

We have come a long way and we are extremely proud of the important and vital role that IMCF plays in supporting and complementing the efforts of IMTA. Our progress has been tremendous but we still have some important objectives to meet and a motivated group of volunteers that are leading the charge.

You will be hearing a lot about the Foundation and we hope as we step up our communications and marketing efforts, we will also see more folks stepping up and supporting the IMCF.

THE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM ALSO CHECKED THE BOX OF GIVING BACK TO THE STATE OF IOWA BY INVESTING IN THE STUDENTS THROUGH THE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM.

BRENDA NEVILLE IMTA President & CEO Foundation President

IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION

Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Board

The Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Board holds two in-person meetings a year and two virtual meetings. The Board is comprised of motor carriers, allied members, as well as retired IMTA members that are passionate about the Foundation.

LIFELINER

Are you interested in serving on the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Board?

If you are interested in serving on the Foundation board, please reach out to Brenda Neville at brenda@iowmotortruck.com.

The board terms are for 2 years and we are always looking for creative, energetic, and engaged individuals to serve on the board. The board engages in annual strategic planning sessions and development of fundraising initiatives. We promise it will be a rewarding and fulfilling board seat.

ADRIAN DICKEY Dickey Transport

JACK SAWYER DMTC, Inc.

JEFF WANGSNESS JMT Trucking Company

STEVE SCHUSTER Schuster Company 2023 Foundation Board Chairman

JUSTIN PHILIPP Simons Trucking Inc.

JACKIE JOHNSRUD Johnsrud Transport, Inc. Retired

DAVE VAN WYK Van Wyk, Inc. Retired

BRENDA NEVILLE, CAE Foundation President

BRAD KOHLWES Argee Transport

DELWIN VAN WYK Retired

IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION AT A GLANCE

Our Mission:

Support,strengthenandcomplementtheeffortsoftheIowaMotorTruckAssociation.

Our Vision:

Creationofinnovativeprogramsandinitiativesthathighlightandunderscorethemany opportunities that exist in Iowa’s trucking industry while also ensuring that IMTA headquarters buildingisalwaysasourceofprideandunity.

Our Values:

Continued commitment to the collaboration of quality efforts that truly move the needle in supporting and strengthening Iowa’s trucking industry.

PILLARS OF FOCUS:

In the early 2000’s the Foundation Board determined that foundation efforts would be driven by four pillars. The board at the time identified what they believed to be the four pillars and each year the Foundation board reviews the pillars through their strategic planning efforts. Most generally the pillars have remained the same and guide the foundation leaders in their efforts every year.

Supporting and Sustaining IMTA/IMCF Headquarters Building

The IMTA/IMCF headquarters is strategically located at the foot of the Iowa State Capitol. As part of the prestigious Capitol Complex, this building is a visible and poignant symbol of the trucking industry’s stature in the State of Iowa. Ensuring that our headquarters is always a first class statement for the industry is a top priority.

Public Awareness/Public Outreach

Telling the story of Iowa’s trucking industry and educating the public on the value of trucking is at the core of this important pillar.

Workforce Development

Transforming the future of Iowa’s trucking industry by investing in efforts today about the countless job opportunities that exist in the industry is a mission of pillar III.

Sustainable Funding

Ensuring that the Foundation will have an ongoing source of funding through innovative, effective, and long-term financial partnerships and investments by the members.

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HISTORY OF THE IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION

1986

Vern Simpson pitched the idea to the IMTA Board of Directors to launch a 501 C 3 Foundation. He felt that this foundation should focus on public awareness projects and giving back to the State of Iowa. He also offered up seed money for the organization along with Vernon “Pinky” Van Wyk, Van Wyk Freight Lines and George Crouse, Crouse Cartage Company.

1987

The Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation (IMCF) became an official entity. Because of the shortage of qualified diesel mechanics, Ziegler/Caterpillar and Cummins made generous donations to the Foundation to start a scholarship program. Vern Simpson, Mid Seven Transportation, was named Chairman of the Foundation.

1988

A program created by the IMTA Public Relations Committee “Project IMTA” (Investing Money in Tomorrow’s Adults) received an award from the Reagan administration. The Foundation determined that they needed to support and administer the program which provided grants to Iowa high schools for after-prom activities and events that would deter drinking and driving.

1990

More scholarship endowments are created, and the Foundation was now able to offer 15 scholarships. The only stipulations to receive an IMCF scholarship were residency in the State of Iowa and attendance at an Iowa based college or university.

1996

The new IMTA headquarters is finished, and the staff officially moves in on April 1, 1996. The Foundation retained ownership of the building in 2014.

The Foundation investment committee is appointed and the need for more significant fundraising is a top discussion item at the board meetings. Because of the success of the impromptu golf outing trophy auction in 2010, the board determines an annual Foundation auction will be held at the convention.

The Foundation launches additional fundraising efforts to expand its scope of activities and support the association. A telethon was held at the IMTA office and over $5,000 was raised.

The annual convention was held at Lake Okoboji and for the first time in the history of the annual golf outing, it was rained out after everyone played 6 holes of golf. At the welcome reception, on a whim, the golf trophies were auctioned off and over $7,500 was raised.

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2011

IMTA tenant, the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission, moves out of the IMTA building due to new legislation requiring all state agencies to be housed in State owned buildings. A realtor is secured in hopes of finding a new tenant.

2012

The front entrance of the IMTA headquarters gets a facelift including a heated sidewalk system, improved lighting, and an improved ramp system.

2013

A more formal governance structure and reorganization of the Foundation board is launched. Murry Fitzer, Florilli Transportation, is named Chairman of the Foundation Board. The Foundation Steering committee is dissolved and instead replaced by a formal board.

2014

IMCF moves forward with establishing a permanent endowment fund with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines which will enable the Foundation to take advantage of the Endow Iowa Tax Credit Program.

The IMTA executive committee agrees to transfer the ownership of the IMTA building to the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation. The Foundation initiated a 50-year lease to IMTA for $12 per year.

2015

On April 21, 2015, IMCF Chairman Murry Fitzer signs the IMTA lease as a 50-year tenant of the IMCF. The Legacy Campaign is developed and kicked off in hopes of raising $10 million for the Foundation over the next 10 years.

The IMTA/IMCF headquarters installs official lighted lettering on the building.

The Foundation Board holds their first formal strategic planning session.

A new geothermal HVAC system is installed and the IMCF Board invested significant amount of time analyzing the future building priorities. Since the building was constructed in 1996, there are some elements of the building that will naturally need to be replaced due to age.

The IMCF Scholarship Program is suspended due to declining interest and shrinking endowment funds.

2019

The Foundation invests in new windows for the entire IMTA/IMCF building. The original windows are replaced with more energy efficient glass.

The COVID-19 Pandemic forces the IMTA Convention to be held virtually which means that the Silent Auction and Live Auction also were to be held virtually. The live auction, held via zoom with an in-person professional auctioneer, raised over $50,000.

A timely strategic planning session identifies top priorities/objectives for the Foundation.

The IMCF Board determines it is time to move forward with the renovation of the West Wing space, previously occupied by the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission.

PILLAR I

The IMTA/IMCF headquarters is strategically located at the foot of the Iowa State Capitol. As part of the prestigious Capitol Complex, this building is a visible and poignant symbol of the trucking industry’s stature in the State of Iowa.

SUPPORTING & SUSTAINING IMTA/IMCF BUILDING

Historical Perspective

In 2011, the longtime IMTA tenant the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission was forced to move out of the building when legislation was passed that required all state agencies be housed in state owned buildings. With the departure of the Racing & Gaming Commission, IMTA leaders secured a realtor and actively began the search for a new renter. Unfortunately, with the development of East Village and the facelift of the Capitol Complex, East Des Moines was suddenly a very popular place and there was an explosion of rental properties on the market.

For over two years efforts were implemented to attract a new tenant. By 2013, as the Foundation was being restructured with a more formal governance structure including the creation of a board, discussions about alternative action moved to the forefront.

By 2013, the Foundation board made the recommendation to pursue ownership of the building. As a 501C3, the Foundation would not be subjected to the high property taxes that were currently being

paid by IMTA. The Foundation retained legal counsel to help with the effort and by 2014 the IMTA board and Foundation board sealed the deal and the Foundation retained ownership of the building.

On April 21, 2015, Foundation Board Chairman Murry Fitzer and IMTA Board Chairman Jackie Johnsrud sign the necessary paperwork. The Foundation extended a 50-year lease to IMTA for $12/ year.

“The IMTA building is a tremendous source of pride for Iowa’s trucking industry. Given its proximity to the State Capitol and our commitment to advocacy, this building is an important symbol of our unity as an industry. The tremendous vision by IMTA leaders back in the early 1990s to purchase this property and build such a stunning building is something that we must always protect and preserve,” said Foundation Chairman Murry Fitzer in a presentation to the IMTA board as the transition of ownership was being discussed.

A detailed lease agreement was drawn up to specifically identify which entity

would be responsible for expenses related to the building. IMTA would cover the expenses associated with the daily operation of the building whereas the foundation would take care of the major capitol expenditures that inevitably come up as the building ages.

By December of 2015, the Foundation board had established a list of short- and long-term priorities for the aging building. First on the list was the replacement of the HVAC system. A system that had continued to be problematic. After considerable research, it was determined a geothermal system would be installed.

What’s on the Horizon for the Iowa Motor Truck Association/Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Building

The Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation became the proud owners of the IMTA building in 2014. This 10,000 square foot building is an important part of the mission of these two organizations. Upon transferring the ownership of the building to the Foundation, a joint meeting of the two boards was held for the sole purpose of creating a strategic plan for the building.

“IMTA leaders at the time understood the importance of preserving and investing in the building not only because of its prominent location at the foot of the State Capitol but to also to be an ongoing source of pride for the members,” said IMTA/IMCF President Brenda Neville.

As a part of that planning process in 2015, the group identified long and short-term goals for the building and vowed that ensuring that the IMTA/IMCF building was always properly maintained and presenting a positive and professional image was priority number one.

“We are committed to reinvesting in the headquarters building because this building is a very visible symbol of who we are as an industry. When people walk into this building and feel good, they also have a very favorable impression of Iowa’s trucking industry,” said Steve Schuster, Foundation Chairman of the Board.

When an architect was secured to design the IMTA headquarters, the first thing he did was walk around the property and determined that the focal point of the building needed to be the Iowa State Capitol. The front entrance and expansive atrium area lined up with the State Capitol. The stunning view of the State Capitol is still something that impresses people the minute they enter the building.

In 2017, a new geothermal system was installed in hopes of creating an even more energy efficient building.

The next major project identified by the Foundation board was replacement of the windows. Given the large number of windows in the building, this was yet another major renovation project. The original windows were replaced after 23 years. Again, a move towards more energy efficient windows was a top priority of the project which also allowed the Foundation to take advantage of energy credits which had a favorable impact on the overall cost of the project.

The board continued to analyze and review other building priorities while also making enhancements to the outdoor space. To the south of the building there was a grove of trees that lined up to the railroad tracks. In 2020, this grove of trees was thinned out to make it more presentable and more appealing to the eye. Work continues to enhance this green space.

During the strategic planning session in 2020, a walk-through of the space referred to as the “west wing” prompted the Foundation board to begin discussions about a full renovation of that space. While the IMTA was using the space for board meetings and educational sessions, there were limitations as to what could be held in this space due to the configuration of the offices around the perimeter, offices that had been sitting empty since the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission left the building (2011).

After securing a general contractor, serious discussions convened in late 2021 and it was determined that a capital campaign to renovate the west wing while also replacing the original place would be launched in 2023 or 2024.

2023 BUILDING RENOVATION COMMITTEE

Jackie Johnsrud Johnsrud Transport, Inc. Retired

Dave Van Wyk Van Wyk, Inc. Retired

Steve Schuster Schuster Company

Jeff Wangsness JMT Trucking Co.

FUTURE BUILDING PRIORITIES

Renovation of the West Wing

This is the space that was vacated in 2011 with the departure of IMTA tenant, the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission. Estimated timeline for this project – 2024*

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*IMCF Board has been working on this effort for the last 6 months and they have secured a General Contractor and have started implementing the necessary steps for a major renovation of the west wing of the IMCF building. Unfortunately, at the printing of this magazine, things are still in the works but an official campaign will be kicked off in mid-June including the revealing of the design, scope of the project and fundraising efforts to complete this exciting project.

Roof Replacement (2024)

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The original roof is still in place at the IMTA building and while it has held up well, it is about 4 years over its projected life expectancy. The roof will be replaced as part of the west wing renovation effort.

Carpet/Flooring Refresh (2024)

The original carpet is also still in place in the IMTA wing of the building. While it too has held up very well, it is starting to show its age and will be replaced in the next 2 years.

Expansion of the Current IMTA Parking Lot

There is space to expand the current IMTA parking lot by simply expanding it into the current green space. The current parking lot will accommodate 85 vehicles. The renovation of the west wing will accommodate over 100 people so expanding the parking lot may be more of a priority once the west wing renovation is completed.

“IMTA leaders at the time understood the importance of preserving and investing in the building not only because of its prominent location at the foot of the State Capitol but to also as an ongoing source of pride for the members.”

Brenda Neville, IMTA/IMCF President

PILLAR II

PUBLIC AWARENESS AND OUTREACH

Trucking Show Trailer & Driving Simulator

The second pillar of importance to the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation is public awareness and outreach. Telling the story of trucking in Iowa is a very important role of the Foundation. Being able to specifically focus on this important initiative has really enabled positive and important inroads to be made in getting the message out there.

The most important tool that we have for this effort is the IMTA show trailer and the driving simulator that is the focal point of the show trailer. The Foundation shares the cost of operating the show trailer and the number of outreach activities that have featured the show trailer and the team of driving and workforce ambassadors has almost tripled over the last two years.

The pandemic forced the show trailer to be parked for almost two years but since the pandemic is now behind us, the show trailer has been on the road non-stop.

IMTA and IMCF have partnered with the Iowa FFA Foundation as well as the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa Workforce Development. These partnerships have created countless opportunities around the state to get in front of students of

Telling the story of Iowa’s trucking industry and educating the public on the value of trucking is a the core of this important pillar.

MEET THE 2023 IMTA DRIVER AMBASSADORS

These professional truck drivers (active and retired) not only assist by driving the show trailer to the various events across the state, but they also help with the trailer and driver simulator set up and answer questions and provide insight to everyone that enters the trailer.

Workforce Ambassadors – Our workforce ambassadors not only communicate with the schools and finalize all the details relative to each outing but also help with onsite presentations about the industry as a whole and highlight all the other career opportunities in the industry beyond truck driving.

MEET THE 2023 IMTA WORKFORCE AMBASSADORS

After collecting feedback from the school leaders that had worked with the show trailer in outreach activities in 2022, it was suggested that IMTA also consider additional ambassadors that also could offer experience and expertise from the perspective of an educator and other trucking professionals beyond the truck driver. Armed with that feedback, IMTA recruited the following individuals to serve as our IMTA workforce ambassadors. These folks join the driver ambassadors at all the school events.

Kevin Gass Retired Trucking Executive & Former IMTA Board Member

Gary Handley Retired Safety Director

Kevin Williams Retired School Administrator

Joe Neville Retired Teacher/ Guidance Counselor

Patrick Yetter Retired Operations

WHY I PROVIDE FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO THE IMTA SHOW TRAILER

IMTA members have always been extremely generous when it comes to IMTA priorities and initiatives. Because the association and the Foundation are involved in many different campaigns and efforts, IMTA members can pick and choose what they want to financially support. For some IMTA members, providing financial support to the help offset the annual expenses of the show trailer is their sweet spot and for Dave and Jody Neuwohner with All Seasons Trucking in Dubuque, the show trailer is something they are passionate about supporting.

Why do you support the show trailer so much?

It’s educational. If more people were able to take a moment to see what it is like behind the wheel of a semi, maybe they would realize it’s not just about holding a steering wheel and looking out the windshield. The show trailer not only has the simulator to see first hand what its like to drive a “big truck”, it has so many actual facts for everyone to read.

The opportunities that the trailer gives to people of every age is amazing. I wish we had multiple trailers to utilize in the state!

You and Jody have been long time supporters of the efforts of IMTA/ IMCF – what motivates you to be engaged and involved?

When All Seasons was started in 1992 we needed answers to different questions on rules and regulation. Don Egli was very helpful answering our questions and guiding us to other sources within the industry. We needed knowledge of the laws and different expectations of the trucking industry and the IMTA staff was there to help. Dave is on the board of directors and Jody is always at the Management Conference to support the IMTA and to push the silent auction to help support the show trailer. Giving back to the industry helps to keep it moving forward.

What would you tell other IMTA members to get them to consider providing financial support to the Foundation?

This is your industry. You get out of it what you put into it. Your voice can be heard by many if you are willing to engage, speak up, and support your fellow brothers and sisters in trucking.

What would be one item that you haven’t seen on the annual Silent Auction that you think would get people to place a bid?

The opportunity to smash a big old cream pie in the face of Brenda or any other staff member ….or even the chairman of the board. It could end up in a bidding war!!!

FUTURE PUBLIC AWARENESS & OUTREACH PRIORITIES

Committed to continually looking for ways to promote Iowa’s trucking industry

The Foundation board recognizes how important it is to be constantly looking for ways to heighten and increase the awareness and appreciation for Iowa’s trucking industry. Not only do these campaigns shed a positive light on the industry but these campaigns are also a strong foundation for building the workforce for the industry. Building positive awareness of the role of trucking in turn attracts people to consider working in the industry.

Because of the important correlation, the Foundation board has continued to be strategic in its efforts to further build up this important pillar beyond the efforts of the show trailer. Below is a list of other initiatives that will be developed over the next several years.

Development of a maintenance professionals outreach effort – appointment of a task force to determine the most effective way to get high school students interested in this field of expertise.

Exploring other avenues for increasing awareness and appreciation for the industry – advertising/sponsorship opportunities with college football/basketball programs, billboard campaign, more effective social media campaign.

Dave & Jody Neuwohner

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PERSPECTIVES ON THE FOUNDATION

I think we owe a huge debt of appreciation to the early founders of the IMTA for their vision, commitment, and financial involvement. We have built an extremely strong trucking association which could be considered the “Top of the Class”. The strength of our IMTA gives us clout at the state capital that many organizations just don’t have. Through the Foundation, we need to continue that excellence by building on the 4 pillars of importance that are highlighted in this magazine. It is extremely enjoyable to see the education and development of so many of the younger members at the different events provided by the IMTA. Our commitment to education and development really stand out when you see so many new faces and makes me very proud and confident that the foundation and the association will continue to flourish far into the future.

The focus of the foundation has circled over the years (education being the main focus, to public image, etc.…) and I believe this evolvement has been a good thing and shows the importance of being responsive and nimble. Those are traits that the Foundation must continue to have to be effective. In the upcoming year, our focus will shift to the building as we kick off a major renovation of the west wing, and this is an important and valuable effort. This final step in renovating our headquarters will be a lasting memory to so many and will redefine the value of the foundation and will propel it to be more important, and more meaningful, in the future!

I believe in the mission of the Foundation and I am excited to see it continue to come into its own. I believe it is very much on the path of making an even bigger difference and impact through the pillars that have been identified. The Foundation is the long game and it truly has the power to shape the future.

I believe the strength of the foundation is the working together and continuing to look for ways to support and strengthen the association. Workforce and education is what resonates the most with me and I am happy the Foundation is making this a priority. I believe the future is bright for the foundation and we are going to continue to be very impactful.

The Foundation is the future of Iowa’s trucking industry. If you love and appreciate the industry this is the very best place to show your support and love of the industry. The Foundation is the vehicle that will sustain IMTA’s future. IMTA members are the core of its identity and the Foundation is the avenue in which we can support the association in a very impactful way!

If you could say one thing about the Foundation that would help people remember the value of the Foundation …what would that be?

DAVE VAN WYK Van Wyk, Inc. Retired

JACKIE JOHNSRUD Johnsrud Transport Retired

ADRIAN DICKEY Dickey Transport

JUSTIN PHILLIP Simon’s Trucking

STEVE SCHUSTER Schuster Trucking

The Foundation was created to complement and support the efforts of the IMTA as a 501 C 3 (contributions are totally tax deductible) where do you see the Foundation in 5 years? 10 years?

My hope for the foundation in the future is that we reach our fundraising goals for special projects as they arise but also create a program for long-term sustainable funding. I think it is important that we create a program of this nature to ensure that IMTA will be here for our kids, and our grandkids. The support provided by the foundation to IMTA has continued to enable IMTA to be one of the most effective trucking advocates in the country and we all need IMTA to continue to have our back.

Even though we have been working on the transformation of the foundation for a while now, I think its imperative that we do a better job of promoting the foundation and all it does for the IMTA. As part of our strategic planning, developing avenues with sustainable funding in mind is part of that plan. Another reason that we have to really step up the communication with the membership regarding the value of the Foundation and this special edition of the Lifeliner is a valuable and important first step. I know one thing we are exploring is estate planning and reminding member that the Foundation is a viable option as they go down that road. I believe with more education and communication, more members will include the foundation as part of their long term planning and the foundation will continue to be financially strong well into the future. I think there are a lot of good things yet to come in the future for the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation.

What do you find the most gratifying about your service on the board for the Foundation?

The foundation has grown so much since its early beginnings. The scope is much larger which means the foundation’s ability to support and complement the association is much larger too. I think Vern would be very proud to see how his dream has grown and made a positive impact.

JACK SAWYER DMTC

The most gratifying part of serving on the board is the passion that all the board members have for the foundation, the industry, and the association. There is a sense of pride among the board members and we all take this role very seriously because we truly believe the impact of the foundation has been and will continue to be very powerful and effective. The future is exciting for the foundation in my opinion.

JEFF WANGSNESS JMT Trucking

DELWIN VAN WYK Retired

BRAD KOHLWES Argee Transport

CONTINUED WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

III 1 2 3

for Iowa’s Trucking Industry

Over the years the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation has continued to evolve. From the earliest days as the Foundation was finding its legs, founder Vern Simpson urged Foundation leaders to “always stay on top of what’s going on in the industry and figure out a way to be relevant and valuable in finding solutions to what is impacting the industry, that is the only way we can truly compliment the efforts of the association.”

Those sage words of wisdom have continued to be the hallmark of the Foundation’s efforts. Foundation leaders have always been committed to getting behind initiatives that will have a positive impact on the trucking industry. Every other year, the Foundation Board evaluates their four pillars and creates strategies in these important areas.

While the driver shortages and maintenance professional shortages are always in the forefront, there is also a desire by the Foundation board to have an even broader scope of outreach when it comes to workforce development. When IMTA was asked by Governor Reynolds to host a workforce summit in November of 2021, the response and attendance was a testament to the importance of this initiative. While the summit focused solely on attracting more professional truck drivers to the industry, the roundtable discussions with over 100 participants clearly underscored the need for an even broader effort for attracting people to the trucking industry.

“There was almost a sense of amazement from people at the summit when we talked about all the employment opportunities in the industry. Plus, trucking is viewed as a very exciting and dynamic industry with a lot of exciting and dynamic jobs. It was a wakeup call that we needed to do more to attract people the industry,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

After the summit, the Foundation board gathered all the feedback and went to work on creating a strategic plan that expanded the workforce development initiatives with several innovative priorities in the works.

Creation of a workforce executive committee through the Foundation with numerous stakeholders from within the industry, and from outside the industry, represented on this committee. This committee will identify key areas of focus and determine what is needed (legislation, funding, etc.) to move the needle in these areas.

Development of a “Trucking U” program involving partnerships with Iowa State, University of Northern Iowa, and the University of Iowa to offer up webinars, educational sessions and possibly a conference where students from these state universities can be introduced to the many different employment opportunities in the trucking industry.

Development of internship programs for IMTA members. Internships are the most popular and effective way to get college students introduced to the industry. The IMCF will assist IMTA members in setting up internship programs and promoting the internship programs to the colleges and universities around the state.

Transforming the future of Iowa’s trucking industry by investing in efforts today about the countless job opportunities that exist in the industry is a mission of pillar III.

WORKFORCE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS

We believe that getting all the stakeholders around the table to engage in meaningful discussions on moving the needle with workforce challenges in the trucking industry will result in some valuable initiatives. I am excited to move forward with this committee’s effort and see what we can to make drive some positive change.

I am very committed to this effort because I believe we must continue to lead the charge in showing high school students the many alternatives to a four-year college experience. The trucking industry has so many different avenues of employment opportunities and allowing high school students the opportunity to see all the different jobs that exist within a trucking operation can and will be pivotal.

2023 LEADERSHIP CLASS

INITIATIVE

If you are interested in serving on the workforce committee, please reach out to Brenda Neville at the IMTA office. The goal is to convene the first workforce committee meeting in late August with an in-person meeting at the IMTA headquarters.

Internships and Getting the Word Out About Trucking at College Campuses

While a big focus is going to continue to be at the high school level, there is still a need to remind college graduates about the opportunities that exist in the trucking industry as well. Every year, leadership class participants are encouraged to devote time to developing an ongoing effort that will have an impact on their company or community. Every year, the leadership class develops some outstanding initiatives and this year’s class was no exception. One of the final discussions with the class was focused on workforce and the following group of individuals suggested their thoughts on the presence of the trucking industry on college campuses. Through that discussion a task force has been developed to explore ways in which the trucking industry can gain more exposure on college campuses.

“As a recent graduate from the University of Iowa, I am really committed to this effort because it was purely by chance that I ended up in the trucking industry. I now know how many great jobs exist in the management level and I am certain that if folks knew about what rewarding jobs were available, there would be a lot of interest in trucking,” said Abby Ryan, Crawford Trucking

TASK FORCE MEMBERS

Adrian Dickey Dickey Transport

Justin Phillip Simon’s Trucking

KALY ETTEN, CRST the Transportation Solution, Inc.

BRETT DUFFY, TrueNorth Insurance

ABBY RYAN, Crawford Trucking

BEN STEINES, Ruan Transportation

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SUSTAINABLE FUNDING for the Foundation PILLAR IV

When the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation was established in 1986, founder Vern Simpson provided the seed money for the Foundation and then approached fellow board members Vernon Van Wyk and George Crouse to provide financial support as well. With some money in the bank, the Foundation was established and shortly thereafter, Ziegler/Caterpillar and Cummins made $20,000 contributions to start a scholarship program for diesel mechanics.

From its earliest days, developing programs to offer sustainable funding for the Foundation has been constantly discussed. Unlike the association, there are no regular or constant streams of revenue coming into the Foundation. So, anyone getting involved with the Foundation had to have an affinity for fundraising.

However, unlike the association, any contribution made to the Foundation is 100% tax deductible, an important caveat that has continued to attract contributions throughout the history of the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation.

The Foundation has typically tied fundraising efforts to specific projects or initiatives and while this has been successful, in recent years, Foundation leaders believed a different approach may be more valuable. As these conversations unfolded, the need for sustainable and ongoing fundraising programs continued to be explored.

“We have been very blessed by some outstanding contributions from members most often times tied to a specific project, but in order for the foundation to be a viable organization far into the future, we believe we need to develop some funding mechanisms that will be in place for the long haul,” said Murry Fitzer at a foundation update during the IMTA annual meeting in September of 2014.

The Foundation board then developed an aggressive plan of action with the first step being a partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines which would enable the Iowa Motor Carrier Foundation to take advantage of the Endow Iowa tax credit program. This has been a great partnership and

IMCF is still proud to be able to offer Endow Iowa tax credits to folks that are interested in the program. Further information about Endow Iowa can be found on page 34.

Endow Iowa is a tax credit program that allows donors to receive a 25% Iowa tax credit in addition to the normal federal charitable income tax deductions for charitable gifts. A variety of gifts qualify for the Endow Iowa tax credit including cash, real estate, appreciated securities and outright gifts to retirement assets. All qualified donors have five years to use their Endow Iowa tax credits.

The Foundation board then approached several different members to consider a legacy contribution and this fundraising effort was successful in securing some significant contributions from John and Dyan Smith from CRST the Transportation Solution, Inc., The Ruan family, Steve Schuster from Schuster Company, and Don Decker with Decker Truck Line.

Additionally, the annual live auction coupled with the silent auction provides annual contributions to the Foundation as well. While these two fundraisers are successful and are held in conjunction with IMTA’s annual convention, the board continues to focus on developing a strategic and easily accessible fundraising program for all the members to consider.

“We continue to have members of all sizes inquire about the possibility of financially supporting the foundation and based on these ongoing requests, we believe it is incumbent that we create a program that will allow everyone who is interested to make a contribution to the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation,” said Foundation Board Chairman Steve Schuster, Schuster Company.

Steve Schuster Schuster Company

Ensuring that the Foundation will have an ongoing source of funding through innovative and effective fundraising efforts.

ENDOW IOWA

The Endow Iowa Tax Credit program was created to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Iowa e through increased philanthropic activity by encouraging new investments to existing community foundations across Iowa.

Those who give to a permanently endowed fund at a qualified community foundation or affiliate organization are eligible to receive a 25% state of Iowa tax credit for their gift. Community members who give are also able to take advantage of the tax credits in conjunction with federal tax deductions.

The Endow Iowa Tax Credit is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis for gifts made to a permanent endowment fund, established for the benefit of Iowa charitable causes, at a qualified community foundation in Iowa. The tax credits can be claimed by individuals, businesses, or financial institutions. The program is administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

How Does Endow Iowa Work?

State legislators passed innovative legislation to create the Endow Iowa Tax Credit program in order to promote gifts to qualified permanent endowments and provide sustainable support to Iowa nonprofits.

Endow Iowa Tax Credits are only available to qualified gifts made through a qualified Iowa community foundation, like the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines and our affiliates.

A variety of gifts qualify for Endow Iowa Tax Credits including cash, real estate, farmland, appreciated securities and outright gifts of retirement assets.

Tax credits of 25% of the gifted amount are limited to $100,000 in tax credits per individual for a gift of $400,000 or $200,000 in tax credits per couple for a gift of $800,000 if both are Iowa taxpayers. No minimum gift amount is required to qualify for Endow Iowa Tax Credits.

Endow Iowa Tax Credits are available on a first-come/first-serve basis until the yearly appropriated limit is reached. If the current year’s tax credits have been exhausted, qualified donors are eligible for the next year’s Endow Iowa Tax Credits.

All qualified donors have five years to use their Endow Iowa Tax Credits.

Effective August 28, 2018, taxpayers who receive Endow Iowa Tax Credits and itemize on their federal tax returns will be required to reduce their federal charitable deductions by the value of any state tax credit received. There is an opportunity to deduct the full value of the gift if you have not reached the $10,000 state and local taxes (SALT) Cap. We recommend consulting with your tax professionals.

• For example, a taxpayer that makes a $1,000 charitable donation to Endow Iowa would receive a $250 (25%) state tax credit. When filing federal taxes, the taxpayer cannot deduct the entire $1,000 charitable donation like in the past, but only the difference between the donation and the state tax credit, or $750 in this example.

CREDITS

ENDOW IOWA TAX CREDIT ILLUSTRATION

NO MINIMUM TAX

GIFT AMOUNT IS REQUIRED TO QUALIFY FOR ENDOW IOWA

Iowans are highly motivated to help future generations build upon the success we enjoy in our state today.

The Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation partnered with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines to be able to offer the Endow Iowa tax credits to donors.

FOUNDATION FUNDRAISING

Unique Circumstance Created Springboard for Amazing Results

In 2010, the annual management conference was held in the Lake Okoboji area and the traditional golf outing was kicked off under sunshine but within 30 minutes of the shotgun start the heavy rain moved in and continued for several hours. Eventually the golf outing was called off and over 100 golfers either went back to the headquarters hotel to dry out or made their way to the hotel bar.

That evening, as the welcome reception got underway, there was a jovial mood despite the rainy conditions and a stage full of golf tournament trophies that would not be handed out since the golf outing had been rained out. A few creative IMTA leaders decided to insert some fun into the evening and after recruiting Dave Riggan with TanTara to try his hand at auctioneering, a spontaneous auction began and by the time the last trophy was auctioned off, over $5000 had been raised for the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation. And even more importantly, a new tradition had been started and that is where the annual live auction got its start!

Since that spontaneous and creative auction in 2010, the live auction has been a featured event at the welcome reception for the annual Management Conference raising over $600,000 for the Foundation since 2011.

The record total raised at the live auction was in 2016 when 12 mystery boxes raked in $71,000 and a virtual auction was held in 2020 when IMTA had to cancel its in-person conference due to the pandemic, but supporters still jumped on the online auction and over $50,000 was raised as auctioneer Joe Bair was televised from a studio to a live online audience.

In 2016, the LEAD IMTA Council hosted a silent auction that was also held at the Management Conference to support the Foundation and since its inception, over $64,000 has been raised to benefit the Foundation.

These two annual fundraisers have raised $672,000 for the Foundation and continue to be a great way for the IMTA membership to show their support for the foundation while also having a lot of fun.

TWO ANNUAL FUNDRAISERS FOR THE FOUNDATION HAVE RAISED $672,000

AUCTION SUPPORTERS

Once again the generosity and support of the IMTA members is in full display as the annual auctions get underway in conjunction with IMTA’s management conference. Year after year many of the same companies get involved with these unique fundraising events and their support has continued to help the Foundation establish some valuable revenue streams that are extremely important as the Foundation works to fulfill its mission.

The Foundation Board is extremely grateful for the support of the following companies that have truly demonstrated their ongoing commitment to advancing the mission of the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation.

Companies Who Have Supported the Foundation Auction Through the Years

• All Seasons Trucking, Inc.

• Amhof Trucking, Inc.

• Barr-Nunn Transportation, Inc.

• BMO Transportation Finance

• Boyer Petroleum Co.

• BTI Special Commodities, Inc.

• Central Trailer Service, Ltd.

• CJM Financial, Inc.

• Cornhusker International

• Cottingham & Butler

• Craftsmen Trailer, LLC

• CRST

• Cummins Central Power, LLC

• Decker Truck Line, Inc.

• Des Moines Transportation Co.

• Dickey Transport

• Don Hummer Trucking

• Donaghy-Kempton Insurors

• Eldon C. Stutsman, Inc.

• Ennis Corp.

• Foodliner

• Freightliner of Des Moines

• Great West Casualty Company

• GSTC

• Harrison Truck Centers

• Hawkeye International Trucks

• Heartland Express

• Heyl Truck Lines, Inc.

• Interstate PowerSystems

• J im Hawk Truck-Trailers, Inc.

• JMT Trucking Co.

• Joe Morten and Son, Inc. dba MotorWays, Inc.

• Johnsrud Transport, Inc.

• JT Logistics

• Keane Thummel Trucking

• Mid Seven Transportation

• Mid States Utility Trailer Sales

• Midwest Wheel Companies

• Niece Trucking

• O’Halloran International a TriVista Company

• Olson Explosives, Inc.

• Panama Transfer, Inc.

• PrePass Safety Alliance

• Pyle Transportation

• Quality Services Corp.

• Quality Trailer Sales

• Relion Insurance Solutions

• Ruan Transportation

• Schuster Company

• Simons Trucking

• Solar Transport

• TanTara Transportation Corp.

• Ten D, Inc.

• Thermo King Sales & Service

• Thompson Truck & Trailer

• Triple-G Express, Inc.

• Truck Center Companies

• Truck Country

• Van Wyk, Inc.

• Weinrich Truck Line, Inc.

• West Side Transport, Inc.

• WestWind Logistics, LLC

• Wilson Trailer Company

IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Get a good understanding and appreciation for the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation

WearehopefulthatthisspecialeditionoftheLifelinerhasgivenyousomeaddedinformation and more importantly added appreciation for the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation. We want everyIMTAmembertohaveagoodunderstandingoftheFoundationanditsmission,goals, and objectives. We are committed to more ongoing communication to the membership to help every member feel connected to the Foundation and it continued efforts to support and complement IMTA and the entire trucking industry.

On the horizon -

Creation of an Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Website complete with online contribution capabilities

Annual communication calendar for regular updates to the IMTA membership on Foundation highlights and activities

Get Involved with the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation

The Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation will continue to focus on the four pillars outlined in this publication and within each pillar there will be opportunities for member involvement.

IMTA Building

IMTA members are welcome to use the IMTA Building at any time for company events, private meetings, or special receptions. This is your building, and we encourage and invite every member to use the building or please stop in when you are in Des Moines.

Public Awareness/Outreach

IMTA members are invited and encouraged to use the IMTA show trailer at company and community events. Simply call the IMTA office today and get your date on the calendar.

Workforce Development

Volunteer opportunities for committee work and/or involvement with outreach at high schools and colleges. Will continue to be available for IMTA members to get involved with.

Sustainable Funding

Please consider a contribution to the Foundation, any amount is welcomed and appreciated, and all contributions are 100% tax deductible. Better yet, consider making an annual contribution to the foundation

Consider becoming part of the sustainable funding plan for the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation.

Moreinformationwillbecomingoutintheupcomingweeksbuttherewillbeseveralwaysto providefinancialsupportthatwillbeextremelyvaluableinourongoingefforts.

More information will be coming out on the following efforts.

West Wing Renovation Capital Campaign–

Within the next 6 weeks the plans will be finalized for the west wing renovation project that will be kicked off in January of 2024. This will be the final phase of renovation for the IMTA/IMCF headquarters, and we know you will be very impressed and pleased with the outcome. The West Wing Capital campaign will feature many different levels of sponsorships for IMTA members including coveted naming rights for the west wing, conference rooms and rose garden.

Titan Program – Become a Foundation

TITAN (titan (Ti-tan) noun – a person or thing of enormous strength, power, influence, etc.) Details of this program will also be shared with the membership in the upcoming months. This program will be designed for annual contributions by companies or individuals. Through the Titan program, you will make a powerful impact on both the short- and long-term goals of the Foundation.

Alternative Options for Giving –

estate planning/life insurance options – Volunteer leaders of the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation have partnered with experts in the insurance industry to create a portfolio of options for creative and meaningful contributions by IMTA members to the Foundation. The goal for the

FINAL THOUGHTS

“I am so proud to see the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation become a reality. This is very important to me personally but also important to Iowa’s trucking industry. I believe the Foundation will be one of the most lasting things we can do as an association to show our support of our great state while also providing the leadership that the trucking industry is known for.”

1987

Vern Simpson, Mid Seven Transportation, making a presentation to the board in 1987.

1992

“I think 20 years from now we will look back at the decision to form the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation and realize it was probably one of the smartest things we have done as an organization. I think the sky is the limit for the things we can do through the Foundation.”

George Crouse, Crouse Transportation, at a scholarship presentation in 1992.

2010

“Let’s have some fun tonight and see what kind of money we can raise for the Foundation. Rather than boxing up these trophies and taking them back to Des Moines to collect dust, we are going to auction them off and my son David is going to show us his auctioneer skills. Get your money out boys!”

Mike Riggan (incoming chair), TanTara Transportation Corp, at the welcome reception at Arnolds Park in September 2010.

2015

“I like the plan; I like the way the Foundation is moving forward, and I am proud to be a supporter. I think there is great potential for the Foundation, especially with this endowment program which is an important start to ongoing sustainable funding.”

John Smith, CRST the Transportation Solution, after he agreed to provide financial support to the Foundation in 2015.

2017

Decker Truck Line is proud to announce our support to the Iowa Motor Carrier’s Foundation. Tonight, at this special celebration for our 75th Anniversary, I’m pleased to announce that we will be giving $250,000 to the foundation.”

Don Decker, Decker Truck Line, 2017 IMTA Chairman of the Board announcing contribution at 75th Anniversary Gala.