Maquoketa Community Services was established in 1968 to fill the void left by the Salvation Army when they moved from Maquoketa. In the beginning, Maquoketa Community Services' primary goal was to provide a brighter Christmas for children in need through an annual toy drive. Over the years, the goals have expanded to assist individuals and families in need and contribute to "Quality of Life" projects throughout Jackson County. The major means of raising money is accomplished through donations of clothing and household items from community members to the Maquoketa Community Services Resale Store located at 107 South Jones Avenue. The store is entirely run by volunteers and is open to the public six days a week. Maquoketa Community Services also acts as a distributor for United Way funds from area residents who work outside of Jackson County and designate their United Way contributions to Maquoketa Community Services. In 1987, Maquoketa Community Services started the Christmas Star Program to help brighten the holidays for children, senior citizens and handicapped individuals. Each year, with the participation of the entire community, hundreds of Jackson County residents are given gifts through the Reach for a Star trees. In 2018, the Star Program shifted the focus of the Star Program to providing for only senior citizens, as Toys for Tots does a wonderful job focusing on the children in our communities. Maquoketa Community Services is under the direction of a 12 member board of volunteers who donate hours of their time throughout the year to give a helping hand to those in need. Current Board Members:
Mary Bartels
Katie Bopes
Mary Pat Burns
Jenna Harms
Beth Hillebrand
Emily Johnson
Joann Latham
MaryAnn McLaughlin
Heath Munson
Susie Ruchotzke
Wendy Zaruba
