WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) offered remarks recognizing Polk County’s Michael Rojas for his dedicated service to Iowa communities. Mr. Rojas received AmeriCorps’ 2023 “Excellence in Disaster Services Leadership” award in honor of his work to address damage from extreme weather and other disaster events that have affected the state.
Iowans recall the derecho that tore through parts of our state in 2020. The storm hit alongside the COVID-19 pandemic, when communities faced unprecedented challenges, including stalled school meal programs. Such unforeseen events can disrupt communities. Individuals like Michael Rojas of Polk County step up – often on a moment’s notice and without pause – to keep that from happening.
Mr. Rojas helped lead FEMA’s response to the 2020 derecho, putting to work his expertise from a prior post with Iowa’s Habitat for Humanity, where he dealt with tornado and flood damage. During the pandemic, he spearheaded critical plans to address food insecurity in our state. Today, he’s a Disaster Program Officer with Volunteer Iowa, which facilitates opportunities for local nonprofits and nearby residents to engage in projects with impacts close to home.
Iowans who cross paths with Mr. Rojas undoubtedly know his selflessness, ingenuity and efficacy. By honoring Mr. Rojas on a national scale with its “Excellence in Disaster Services Leadership” award, AmeriCorps seems to have hit the nail on the head. I congratulate Mr. Rojas on this well-earned recognition and thank him for his continued, exemplary service to Iowa.
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