At BigIron, community support is more than a business initiative—it’s a value we live by. Recently, one of our own, BigIron Territory Manager, Russ Radloff from Cascade, Iowa, exemplified this by donating 80 yellow BigIron buckets to Camp Courageous, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities. This act of kindness highlights the strong connection between BigIron, its employees, and the communities we serve.
What Is Camp Courageous?
Located southeast of Monticello, Iowa, Camp Courageous is a year-round facility that provides recreational, respite, and travel opportunities for individuals with disabilities. For decades, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit has been a beacon of hope for campers and their families, offering experiences that inspire confidence, encourage exploration, and provide a safe space for growth. The camp operates solely on donations, ensuring every dollar, hour of volunteer time, or material contribution goes directly to supporting its programs.
The mission of Camp Courageous is simple but powerful: to create a world where individuals with disabilities are empowered to look beyond their current capabilities and explore the world with courage and confidence. Whether through weeklong camp sessions, outdoor adventures, or family camp programs, the camp serves thousands of individuals, offering them the chance to experience life-changing opportunities in a supportive environment.
A Special Donation from BigIron
Russ Radloff’s involvement with Camp Courageous is not new; he has supported the organization for years and has fond memories of working on tree-cutting projects at the camp decades ago. So, when Phil and Jan Short, Camp Courageous board members, attended the Farm Progress Show and saw BigIron handing out its iconic 5-gallon yellow buckets, they knew exactly how those buckets could be put to good use.
Tree planting, daily camp activities, and maintenance efforts often require tools and supplies, and the need for durable buckets is always high. When the Shorts shared this need with Russ, he responded immediately, offering to deliver 80 BigIron buckets to the camp. Somehow, Russ managed to fit all 80 buckets into his car, making the journey to deliver them personally to Camp Courageous. His generosity is just one example of how BigIron employees go above and beyond to support their local communities.
The Impact of Russ’ Donation
For Camp Courageous, donations like these are essential. The camp does not receive government funding or formal sponsorships, so every donation, no matter the size, plays a critical role in keeping the camp’s programs running smoothly. The 80 buckets donated by Russ and BigIron will support various camp activities, from outdoor work to recreational projects, making a tangible impact on the campers’ experiences.
Camp Courageous is a special place where individuals of all abilities can come together to experience the joys of camp life, explore nature, and take part in activities that challenge them to grow. For their caregivers, it’s a respite—a time to rest, knowing their loved ones are being cared for in a compassionate and safe environment.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Russ Radloff’s dedication to supporting Camp Courageous is a reflection of the values we hold dear at BigIron. We are proud to have employees like Russ who take the initiative to support their communities and build relationships that span decades.
Thank you, Russ, for your generosity and your ongoing commitment to Camp Courageous. Your efforts, along with the support of Phil and Jan Short and everyone involved, demonstrate the power of community and the impact of giving back.
If you’re interested in learning more about Camp Courageous or how you can support their mission, visit their website. Let’s continue to uplift the communities we serve and empower those who need it most!
