Serving on the Marshalltown City Council has offered me new and different opportunities to connect with our community and see how our community may connect with others. One of these connections has been with our Sister City in Ukraine– Zdolbuniv. This partnership has deepened my understanding of global issues and highlighted how interconnected we all truly are, even from opposite sides of the world.

Recently, we received an update from Zdolbuniv. Their situation remains grim, with the ongoing war continuing to cast a shadow over daily life. The city, home to approximately 24,500 people — slightly smaller than Marshalltown’s population of 27,500 — faces heartbreaking losses. We learned that around 100 residents of Zdolbuniv have died as a result of the war. To put that into perspective, imagine losing 100 of our own Marshalltonians — military personnel, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family members. The magnitude of such a loss is difficult to comprehend. Their resilience facing such tragedies is deeply humbling.

As we process this sobering news, I want to emphasize that it’s okay, and even necessary, to sympathize with situations happening outside our country while also addressing the challenges we face here at home. Compassion is not a limited resource. Recognizing the pain and struggles of others in no way diminishes the importance of tackling our own local issues, such as homelessness, food insecurity, or inequities within our community. If you’re one of those who feel strongly about focusing on local concerns, I encourage you to get involved. Volunteer with nonprofits, lend a hand to initiatives you’re passionate about, and join the conversations addressing these challenges.

On a more uplifting note, Zdolbuniv sent us something extraordinary — artwork created by children in their community. In collaboration with the Marshalltown Arts and Culture Alliance, the Sister City Committee is working to display this artwork in a gallery here in Marshalltown. The gallery will not only provide our community with a chance to view and appreciate this meaningful art, but it will also serve as an opportunity to give back. The pieces will be auctioned off, with all proceeds sent back to Zdolbuniv. We are tentatively planning for this gallery and auction to take place in early 2025, so stay tuned for updates on dates and details.

The initiative has reminded me of the power of art to bridge divides and inspire action. Art has a way of speaking to us when words fail. These children, through their creations, share a glimpse of their lives during a war, inviting us to connect with them. These efforts also bring to light the importance of civic pride. Marshalltown’s pride in our community doesn’t just improve our town — it reverberates far beyond. Our dedication to cleaning up neighborhoods, supporting local projects, and investing in our city shows the world that we care about where we come from and what we stand for. That pride empowers us to make a bigger impact, whether we’re addressing challenges here at home or supporting efforts like those in Zdolbuniv.

When we show that we are invested in our town’s well-being, we not only set an example for other communities but also create opportunities to collaborate on initiatives that benefit the public. As a council member, I am continually inspired by the strength of our community and the partnerships we foster. Whether it’s addressing local issues or extending a hand across continents, the spirit of Marshalltown shines through in our commitment to care and connection. If you have a passion about joining the Sister City Committee, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

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Melisa Fonseca is Marshalltown’s Fourth Ward city councilor. She can be reached at mfonseca@marshalltown-ia.gov.