Jodi Rife was born in Marion. After graduating from Harding High School in 1985, she moved to Dublin but came back here to raise her family. Rife’s career and volunteer efforts are focused on helping children in Marion, especially at the holidays. For 25 years, Rife has served as the director of the Christmas Clearinghouse, which helps about 450 local families put toys, coats and other gifts under the tree each year.
“I work for Marion City Schools and I see the need. I don’t want any child to go without at the holidays. I want them to feel happy on Christmas morning,” Rife said.
This effort by the Junior Service Guild, sponsors, and volunteers, serves between 1,200 and 1,500 children each year.
“We see a lot of grandparents and great-grandparents raising their grandkids. These people are angels to me,” Rife said.
Key to Success: Relationships
Jeff Ruth has worked alongside Jodi for 25 years and helped nominate her for the Women’s Business Council Athena Award, along with Veronica Reinhart, Kelly McKay, Jennifer Lawson and Bev Young.
“She’s just got a passion for kids and families that need help. She is so organized. On distribution days, she knows every person who comes through the door. She treats everyone like family,” Ruth said.
“I’ve built relationships with the families. I want people to be comfortable and to know that we want to help. I have that passion for people and want to make them feel good and smile make them smile,” Rife said.
Donations Make a Difference
While there are more families in need, there are also generous local partners.
“The need in Marion has grown over the years. Almost 25 years ago when I took on the role, the need was always there. But as times went by, the poverty level has grown so much,” Rife said.
“But I look at the donations that come in and I am so fortunate that I have so many community partners that give to clearinghouse – companies, schools and individuals.”
Athena Award From Women’s Business Council
Rife was honored to be chosen for the Athena Award for her volunteer work as well as her professional excellence.
“I was extremely humbled. Ten other women were nominated as well. They all have such great stories and have given so much back to the community. I was in awe of being nominated with them. I was very surprised,” Rife said.
For someone who works behind the scenes, the public accolades are especially meaningful.
“Every time I’m out, someone says, ‘Jodi! Congratulations!’ I’m so humbled. I can’t even begin to tell people how much it means to me,” Rife said. “I’m so fortunate that I have such a great organization that supports me and my and a community that supports us and donates. We appreciate Marion County Children’s Services for donating space to us each year.”
Rife appreciates the Women’s Business Council for presenting the Athena Award each year.
“I’m so awed about all of this. I don’t think leadership is defined by titles or accolades. It’s the impact on the people we have around us,” Rife said.
The Women’s Business Council and the Modern Woodmen are donating $5,000 to the Christmas Clearinghouse which will provide new toys, hats, gloves, blankets and mittens for many local families this year.
Jodi Rife Excited for Marion’s Bright Future
Rife is proud of being a Marionite. She is excited about Marion’s direction.
“I’m so proud to be a part of Marion and to see the positive direction we are going in. Our downtown is just – Wow! They are doing great things,” Rife said. “We need to work together. We need to share that vision of uplifting and enriching each other. That’s just a journey we have to all work on – keep uplifting and encouraging our community.”
Jodi Encourages Giving
In addition, she encourages volunteering in her family, which includes three adult children and nine grandchildren, and in the community.
“When I am so proud of my family and how much community means to them. My children have always known Clearinghouse and have always participated. I have grandkids who love to come out to Clearinghouse and giving back,” Rife said. “Always give back to your community. You will just be awed about giving back. Every child, every person should always know about giving.
For more information:
Christmas Clearinghouse Facebook page
Junior Service Guild Facebook page and email: Jsgchristmasclearinghouse@gmail.com
Women’s Business Council website
MarionMade! is a program of Marion Technical College.
