Editor’s note: Following is a resolution approved unanimously on Nov. 23 by the Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry board of directors in recognition of executive director Eloise Thwings many years of service.

Whereas, twenty years ago, Eloise Thwing founded Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry and created a legacy of compassion and dedication to serving the needy within Polk County;&bsp; and

Whereas, Eloise Thwing has served as executive director of Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry since its inception; and

Whereas, the vision of Eloise Thwing for a viable community wide organization providing food and comfort to people within Polk County who are lacking in the basic necessities of life has come to past with the creation of Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry; and

Whereas, as a result of Eloise Thwings efforts, churches, individuals and organizations within Polk County now give hundreds of thousands of dollars and thousands of volunteer hours to support&bsp; the Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry mission; and

Whereas, Eloise Thwing has expressed a desire to retire by December 31, 2010 and work cooperatively with the transition of a new executive director;

Now therefore be it resolved that the board of directors of Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry grant Eloise Thwing her retirement request, extend heartfelt appreciation and admiration for the many contributions Eloise Thwing made in creating and growing Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry, and develop a lasting public recognition that honors Eloise Thwing for her unselfish service and compassionate legacy of ministry to those in need.