Jamestown College raises funds for Awender family

The Jamestown College “Look Outward” mission of service was on full display at a benefit for a former college employee and Iraq veteran.

Just over $12,000 was raised for the John and Angie Awender family at a spaghetti dinner and silent auction in December.

John Awender worked at the Jamestown College physical plant for several years prior to serving a tour of duty in Iraq in 2007-08 with the North Dakota National Guard.

Upon returning, he was unable to continue working due to injuries. Medical bills piled up in the midst of difficulties obtaining veteran’s benefits.

Benefit co-chairs were Cathy Lutz, assistant to the dean of students, and Roger Parsons, physical plant employee.

The event brought together student organizations, Jimmie athletic teams, college faculty and staff, as well as businesses and community groups. More than 500 people attended the benefit.

“We heard a lot of great comments from the community about how many college students were involved,” Lutz said. “It was a real team effort.”

Tags: in the area, look outward, community, clubs, jamestown, college, jc, jimmies, awender, veteran