Building Belonging in Postville

In Postville, a resident-led process sparked meaningful improvements, strengthened connections among neighbors, and empowered people to shape the future of the place they love.

Community Heart & Soul®, an initiative facilitated by the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque and its affiliates like the Allamakee Community Foundation, has provided Postville residents with a powerful framework helping people think about why they love their town. As in other participating communities, Heart & Soul has helped the diverse small town not just embrace its positive, unique qualities but also build on them.

One of the most immediate impacts has been a stronger support system for new residents who come to Postville from many parts of the world.

“We’ve created a welcoming group that helps people get connected sooner,” says Postville Heart & Soul leader Crystal Duffy. “That way, they’re not on their own when they arrive.” This grassroots group helps families, many of them immigrants, meet basic needs and access resources.

Community input has also led to physical improvements. After residents identified a safety concern along a busy road, the town installed a new sidewalk, turning feedback into action.

Access to services has expanded, as well. In-person ESL classes have returned, and the local library now hosts clothing and supply giveaways. These efforts have engaged a broad cross-section of the community and increased use of resources like Spanish-language books.

“We’re seeing so many more people come in, access services, and feel like they belong,” Crystal says.

Just as important as projects is a shift in mindset. Residents increasingly see themselves as change-makers rather than bystanders.

“People used to think they had to wait for the city,” Crystal says. “Now they come with ideas and we tell them, ‘That’s a great idea. You can do it.’”

Today, when needs arise, residents are more likely to know who to call or where to turn for help.

“I really feel like we’ve built a network of people helping people,” Crystal says. “More needs are getting met because we’re connected.”