Perleberg is April Employee of the Month

The organized and cheerful person who facilitates activities at First Lutheran Church in New Rockford is the April Employee of the Month sponsored by the New Rockford Area Chamber of Commerce. Office administrator Amy Perleberg received her award on Tuesday afternoon in the presence of Pastor Doug Nemitz. Church Council President Bruce Hirchert stopped by shortly thereafter to congratulate her.

Pastor Doug said, "As Amy goes about her tasks, and they are many, one can soon see that she has a servant's heart. The people of First Lutheran are certainly blessed by Amy's presence in the office and through all of congregational life. I have heard a good number of people at First Lutheran say something on the order of, 'We are sure blessed to have Amy. Without her this place would fall apart!' I think there is a lot of truth in that."

Hirchert added, "We are very lucky to have her as an employee. She has several great qualities...and keeps everyone informed of all things going on."Perleberg, who was nominated by parishioners Verle Marsaa and Barb Perleberg, began her tenure 11 years ago. She recalls that she was encouraged to apply by Cheryl Christianson, wife of former Pastor Russ Christianson. Since accepting the position in the summer of 2007, Perleberg has served under three pastors, maintained a sense of order to the congregation's daily work and helped coordinate some exciting new programs.

The first new program was the Hunger Free Food Pantry, which the church council decided to open in July 2010. Council members were looking for ways to engage the congregation and community, and the food pantry seemed like a good or outreach project. The Kiwanis Club, who had operated the local food pantry for many years prior, handed over full responsibility for the program to the church after the organization dissolved.

Perleberg was quick to note that although she does get quite busy sometimes working with people in need through the food pantry, she would not be able to do it without help from many capable volunteers. She certainly isn't one to take credit or allow herself to be thrust into the limelight!

The Hunger Free Food Pantry at First Lutheran Church is here for the community. The goal is for a "hunger free" New Rockford and surrounding areas. Hours for the Food Pantry are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-4. After hours contacts are Sheri at 947-2201 or 652-5223 or Luann at 947-5156. Anyone is welcome to visit anytime they have a need!

Another outreach program Perleberg has had the privilege to see grow is the SMASH youth program. SMASH stands for Students Ministering And Serving Him. For many years youth came to Sunday School each week to learn about God. Now, they come Wednesday afternoons after school and spend an hour together in fellowship, song, prayer and learning. Perleberg said that during the winter months there are an average of 60 children who attend the program, which is a huge increase from the numbers they had attending the Sunday morning program in the past.

Prior to working at the church, Perleberg was a hairdresser, school lunch lady and even operated a daycare out of her home for a period of time.

She said her favorite part about the job is helping people. Well, that and Monday Bible study, which is quite the learning experience, she added with a chuckle!

Do you know someone who goes above and beyond in his or her job to take care of customers, patrons or patients here in Eddy County? Nominate that person for Employee of the Month. Nomination forms and cards are available at local businesses and online at cityofnewrockford.com/chamber. You can also email a nomination to [email protected]. One person is chosen each month.