Red Oak Area Partnership Named Fund Advisor for Revitalize Southwest Iowa Initiative

Red Oak Area Partnership Named Fund Advisor for Revitalize Southwest Iowa Initiative

The Red Oak Area Partnership (ROAP) has received official confirmation that it will serve as the Fund Advisor for the Charles E. Lakin Foundation’s Revitalize Southwest Iowa Initiative, marking a significant milestone for the community.

During a recent interview, ROAP Board President Tim Werges shared details about the announcement and what it means moving forward. The designation comes after approximately 18 months of work by local leaders and represents a major step in connecting Red Oak with funding opportunities and long-term development planning.

ROAP was formed in early 2025 as a 501(c)(3) organization with the purpose of serving as a bridge between the Lakin Foundation and the Red Oak community. With this new role, the organization will help guide funding decisions and communication tied to regional revitalization efforts.

Werges said the group was notified in early March that it had been officially selected as the fund advisor. While the designation is now confirmed, additional details about how the initiative will operate locally are expected from the Lakin Foundation by the end of April.

He emphasized that the announcement reflects the hard work and dedication of community members who have been involved in planning and collaboration efforts over the past year and a half.

The ROAP board currently consists of eight members, with the potential for expansion in the future as the initiative develops.

Key takeaways from the interview with Tim Werges:

• ROAP has officially been designated as the Fund Advisor for Red Oak through the Lakin Foundation initiative
• The organization was formed in early 2025 as a nonprofit to support communication and funding efforts
• The designation follows approximately 18 months of work and collaboration
• ROAP will help guide funding and act as a liaison between the foundation and the community
• Additional details on implementation are expected by the end of April
• The board currently has eight members, with possible expansion ahead

Below is the full press release from the Red Oak Area Partnership: