Celebrating Community Service & Business Excellence!

Tom Shafer receives Gene Schultz Community Service Award; Gregg Young Automotive Group named Business of the Year

OTTUMWA, Iowa (October 16, 2026) – Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) celebrated outstanding community leadership, volunteerism, and business excellence during its Annual Banquet on Thursday, October 15. Among the evening's highlights were the presentation of two prestigious awards recognizing individuals and organizations making a lasting impact on the Ottumwa community.

Tom Shafer was honored with the Gene Schultz Community Service Award, while Gregg Young Automotive Group received the Business of the Year Award.

Tom Shafer – Gene Schultz Community Service Award

The Gene Schultz Community Service Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their community through volunteerism, civic involvement, and selfless service.

This year's recipient, Tom Shafer, has spent decades giving back to the Ottumwa community. A longtime local businessman and retired insurance agency owner, Shafer has been an active member of Ottumwa Kiwanis for more than 35 years, currently serving as its president. His extensive volunteer work includes supporting local youth programs, mentoring students through iJAG, assisting charitable organizations, and contributing to numerous community initiatives.

Shafer has also been involved with Main Street Ottumwa since 1985 and remains active in his church, helping coordinate outreach efforts that benefit families and individuals in need. His generosity, positive attitude, and willingness to serve wherever needed exemplify the spirit of the Gene Schultz Community Service Award.

Gregg Young Automotive Group – Business of the Year

GOPIP proudly recognized Gregg Young Automotive Group as the recipient of the 2026 Business of the Year Award.

The award recognizes a GOPIP investor business that demonstrates excellence in its industry, strong community involvement, and a commitment to the growth and success of the Greater Ottumwa area.

Gregg Young Automotive Group has established itself as a valued member of the local business community through its dedication to customer service, employment opportunities, and continued investment in the region. Its commitment to business excellence and supporting the local economy makes it a deserving recipient of this year's honor.

Celebrating Those Who Move Ottumwa Forward

The GOPIP Annual Banquet brings together business leaders, community partners, elected officials, and residents to celebrate accomplishments and recognize those who make a difference throughout the Greater Ottumwa area.

"These awards recognize what makes the Greater Ottumwa community special: people who give generously of themselves and businesses that invest in our community's future," said GOPIP Executive Director Marc Roe. "Tom Shafer's decades of volunteer service and Gregg Young Automotive Group's commitment to business excellence are wonderful examples of the leadership and dedication that continue to move Ottumwa forward."

GOPIP congratulates both award recipients and extends its appreciation to the individuals, businesses, sponsors, and community partners who helped make this year's Annual Banquet a success.