For today’s #PeopleofAltoona, we get to know the Rinehart family! Belinda, who works for the Southeast Polk Community School District (along with her daughter), tells the family’s story in her own words…
Q. Tell us your Altoona story.
A. My husband and I both grew up in the Southeast Polk community. After we married in 1981, we made Altoona our home, where we raised our children, Jenny and Justin. As adults, after completing their post-secondary education, both Jenny and Justin returned to Altoona, where they live and work today.
Our family has been active in the Altoona community through youth sports, school events and community service.
Q. What makes Altoona feel like home?
A. Our community has many amenities and continues to gain more each year! We always feel safe and welcome in Altoona; you can really tell that the community cares about its citizens.
We love that Altoona has a variety of things to do, from biking and dining to shopping and more!
Q. What’s your favorite thing about Altoona?
A. Altoona has a truly unique personality. It’s a growing community, but it’s retained a small-town feel. The addition of The Outlets of Des Moines has been a great amenity for our community… we really can be a “one-stop shop” for all of your needs!
Q. What drew you to Altoona?
A. When we married, my husband and I wanted a short commute to our employment—and Altoona provided just that.
Also, we knew that we wanted our children to attend Southeast Polk Community Schools and have the opportunity to be involved in a variety of youth activities. Altoona just made sense!
Q. Tell us more about life in the Altoona community.
A. I’m employed by Southeast Polk; I work at Centennial Elementary, and I’m also the event lead of Relay for Life of Eastern Polk County.
Jenny, my daughter, is also employed by Southeast Polk as an 8th grade Language Arts Teacher at the Junior High. Living in Altoona allows both of us to work with local students while also giving back to our community through education.
My son, Justin, is employed by O’Reilly Auto Parts in Altoona, which allows him to get to know many of our community members and local business owners.
My husband, Russ, works for Van Wall Equipment (John Deere) in Colfax, providing service to many farmers in the surrounding area.
By living and working in Altoona, our family has the opportunity to create relationships, get to know more people, and continue to be engaged in our community!
Thanks for reading! Want to meet more #PeopleofAltoona? Read our recent interview with Kalyn Gibson.
