'Building a stronger community' more than just a tagline for local contractor

Rinderknecht Associates, Inc., a Cedar Rapids area general contractor since the 1880's, lives and breathes its new tagline. Recent projects include National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, the Human Services Campus, Horizons – A Family Service Alliance, Home to Stay, Milestones, many area churches and the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art. “Building a Stronger Community” doesn't just refer to the formal, contracted construction projects though.

Management places a great emphasis on community involvement and volunteerism. “Many of our associates belong to organizations, serve on boards, or volunteer in some manner,” says Rinderknecht President Tom Amosson.

Recently, four Rinderknecht employees volunteered their time to build new dugouts at Washington High School's softball diamond for Mount Mercy University. “This diamond will be shared by both programs and will be a true asset for Mount Mercy University when it comes to recruiting top female athletes,” says Rinderknecht Executive Vice President Scott Friauf.

Time and material was also donated to the Sixth Judicial District for construction of a victims' memorial at the 29th Avenue SW campus. A Rinderknecht Associates crew poured a concrete awareness ribbon surrounding a memorial statue and stone.

Volunteers also assisted at Indian Creek Nature Center. In a joint effort with Climate Engineers and Ogden and Adams, Rinderknecht helped restore a chimney to working order at the caretaker's home. “We weren't asked to do this,” says Project Manager Stuart Slaymaker. “We just heard about the need and volunteered to make it happen,” he says. Rinderknecht's portion of the work included installing shingles around the chimney pipe.

Employees also show their community spirit every Friday. “We have a strong partnership with Horizon's Meals on Wheels program,” explains Amosson. Each week, two or three volunteers deliver meals on the southwest side of Cedar Rapids. “Our Meals on Wheels route is incredibly rewarding. We're able to make a difference in so many lives in such a short time. We're honored to be part of this program,” says Amosson.

The “Building a Stronger Community” theme is evident in the construction projects and community service in which Rinderknecht Associates is involved. “This community is the reason for our success. We are proud of our rich history here and enjoy giving back,” says Amosson.