Looking for a way to give back to public servants across the county? Check out Hamilton County’s newest group, SOS – Serving Our Servants.

SOS–Serving Our Servants started in 2014. It was formed by Pastor Al Henderson, Chaplain for the Fort Dodge Police Department, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa State Patrol and the Fort Dodge Fire Department.

Individuals in the region had attended a Citizen’s Academy in Webster County and showed interest in organizing a group. The primary function of SOS is to acknowledge local public servants by serving them through encouraging words, meals and friendly visits.

Ruppel saw an article on Facebook about the group and began making calls to local clergy to see if a Hamilton County SOS group could be formed.

“Honestly, God just put this on my heart,” said Ruppel. “I called Pastor Al Henderson and asked if anyone in Hamilton County showed an interest. He gave me some names and I called those people.”

Many of these public servants serve at all hours, are in dangerous situations and in life-threatening situations. According to Ruppel, the group wants to show their appreciation in various ways.

In the past, the SOS group in Webster County has provided cold water bottles, insect repellent and snacks to officers, firefighters, and other personnel who could not leave the scene. “It makes for a good morale booster,” said Ruppel.

“Their calling is to serve the public. We want to reverse the rolls and show them our support,” Ruppel said. “Overall, we want them to know that people around here care about them.”

The first meeting will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Webster City, on October 12, 2017 at 7 p.m. Anyone interested in helping the faith-based group with donations should contact it through calling Pastor Mark Eichler, St. Paul Lutheran Church or email Kristen Ruppel at kruppel16@gmail.com.

Ruppel said the first fundraiser the group does may be collecting teddy bears for youths.