Mailing Mamas Honored with Governor’s Volunteer Award for Decades of Service

For more than 37 years, a remarkable group of women known as the Mailing Mamas has been quietly but powerfully shaping central Iowa’s nonprofit landscape through their time, dedication, and deep-rooted spirit of service. This year, the Mailing Mamas were formally recognized with a Governor’s Volunteer Award, a well-deserved honor celebrating the group’s unwavering commitment to the community.

Formed in the late 1980s through United Way of Iowa’s RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program), the Mailing Mamas got their start supporting organizations with large-scale mailings. Since then, they’ve donated over 40,000 hours to nonprofit and government organizations throughout central Iowa. And while they’ve been at it for decades, the nature and complexity of their work has grown and adapted over time. 

Today, the group continues to make a significant impact by supporting a wide variety of administrative needs, such as preparing Literacy Kits, collating and labelling materials, organizing fundraising campaigns, and even helping with quality control and special projects. One of their most meaningful efforts involves Book Buddy, United Way of Central Iowa’s preschool reading program. Before each school year begins, the Mailing Mamas prep the books and supplies for hundreds of volunteer mentors and young students.

Their work has touched nearly every corner of the community—assisting nonprofits like Children & Families of Iowa, EveryStep, Goodwill, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, as well as supporting state entities including the Governor’s Office, Department of Public Health, and Department of Transportation.

Beyond the volunteer hours, the story of the Mailing Mamas is also a story of friendship and legacy. Founding members Delores Aswegan and Joyann Benoit inspired their daughters to carry the torch, creating a multi-generational ripple effect of community service.

“My mother’s volunteerism has helped create a legacy of volunteerism in my family, especially for me and my brother,” said Diane Benoit, now a Mailing Mama herself. “She’s inspired me to stay active and give back in my retirement years, just like she did.”

Current members include Lilah Ness, Paulet Lame, Ann LaFontaine, Jane Pike, and Diane Benoit. They gather regularly at United Way of Central Iowa’s office, often laughing and chatting as they sort, count, and assemble whatever project needs an extra set of hands.
For the nonprofits and organizations who benefit from their work, one sentiment is echoed again and again: “They’re amazing.” Or, as one nonprofit partner put it: “All volunteers do a good job, but the Mailing Mamas do a REALLY good job.”

Their work may take place behind the scenes, but the impact of the Mailing Mamas is front and center across central Iowa. The Governor’s Volunteer Award is a fitting tribute to this team of dedicated women who’ve proven that time, talent, and teamwork can make a lasting difference—year after year, decade after decade.

Inspired by the Mailing Mamas? There’s a place for everyone to give back. Whether you have a few hours a week or a few hours a month, your time can help strengthen our community. Visit unitedwaydm.org/get-involved/volunteer to find opportunities that match your interests and join the tradition of service that makes central Iowa thrive.