BLAIR, NEBRASKA (WEDNESDAY, 01 JANUARY, 2023) – The community of Washington County is showcasing its unity and compassion by rallying behind Hudson and Brooklyn Dilworth, the children of the late Jordan Rishel, who tragically passed away in a car accident on December 28, 2023. Jordan, a cherished former Washington County supervisor and Community Foundation executive director, was a beacon of kindness and service. In her memory, a fundraiser has been set up with the ambitious goal of $100,000 to support her children’s future and passions.
As of now, $10,385 has been raised toward this noble cause. Central to this effort are the local businesses who have committed to promoting the fundraiser, each playing a crucial role in the community’s endeavor to reach the target. These establishments, known for their community spirit and generosity, deserve special recognition:
- McKinnis Roofing and Sheet Metal: Known for their quality service, they’re adding to their community contributions by supporting this cause.
- Butch’s Rock’n Deli: A popular local spot, now also a hub for community support.
- Kubie Insurance Agency: Stepping up to aid the family of one they consider a neighbor and friend.
- Ahead of the Curve Salon: Adding a touch of care not just in services but in community efforts too.
- Bark Boutique: Known for pampering pets, now showing their love for the community.
- Blair Meat Market: A staple in the community, providing more than just quality cuts.
- Jeanette Hunt – Blair Animal Shelter: Fostering care in all aspects, for animals and humans alike.
- From Earth – 1647 Washington: Rooting for the community by supporting this important cause.
- SE Smith: Doubling the support, they’re taking two spots in this community effort.
- Fairway Oil: Collaboratively working to spread the word and make a difference.
- Dairy Queen: A place for treats and now a beacon of support.
- AT&T: Connecting more than calls, they’re connecting the community in support.
- Anytime Fitness: Encouraging health and now also encouraging communal solidarity.
- Tax & Business Consultants: Calculating more than numbers, they’re adding to the community spirit.
- Great Clips: Cutting through the sorrow with their support and care.
- Country Garden: Planting seeds of hope with their involvement.
- Pizza Hut: Delivering more than pizzas, they’re delivering support.
- Country Tire: Driving support not just in tires but in community efforts too.
- ENOA – 1904 South St. #107: Adding to their list of community support, one fundraiser at a time.
- Belinas: A name now synonymous not just with quality but with community care.
- BlairToday: Spreading the news and the spirit of support.
- Main Street Boutique: Fashioning a tapestry of community support and care.
- American Legion: Veterans of service and now of community support.
This list is a testament to the incredible community spirit that thrives in Washington County. Each business, in pledging their support for the fundraiser, is playing a crucial role in not just honoring Jordan Rishel’s legacy but also in providing a tangible support system for her children, Hudson and Brooklyn.
The fundraiser, while set against a backdrop of tragedy, is a beacon of hope and unity. It demonstrates that in times of need, the Washington County community stands strong together. As the efforts continue towards reaching the $100,000 goal, the involvement of these businesses and individuals alike underscores a powerful message of communal resilience and compassion.
For those interested in contributing or learning more about the fundraiser, details are available on the dedicated fundraising page. As the community works together towards this goal, each contribution, big or small, is a step towards not just reaching a financial target but also in building a legacy of community support and love in honor of Jordan Rishel.
I want to thank Jessica Johnson, friend and neighbor of Jordan Rishel, for her efforts. Jessica is really the force on social media working hard to help this cause. I wrote Jessica today and said, “It’s interesting how Jordan’s very untimely death has seemed to bring a lot of people together. Do you know what I mean?” Jessica replied, “I do. She was such a pillar in this community. Had the most giving soul and truly loved her community and everyone in it. She is going to be so greatly missed and Washington County will not be the same without her.”
I don’t make a habit of posting what people text me in private. In this case, I make an exception. Jessica’s comments are exactly right. In my 55 years of life, I’m not sure I’ve seen the death of someone bring so many people together. Jordan Rishel’s impact is today only greater in her passing.
Ecclesiastes 7:1 (NIV) says, “A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth.”
Jordan Rishel’s name was so good while she was here that our entire town seems poised to continue her legacy of giving – by giving to help her children.
I’m so very sorry to hear of Jordan’s passing , I work at the the Blair Post , I met her thru the Post Office . A wonderful person . May God keep her loving children wrap around him . God bless her whole family .