Hometown Heroes: Community
Banner Program
Ottumwa is a city built by people who show up — for one another, for this downtown, and for the next generation. Main Street Ottumwa is proud to expand that spirit of recognition with a new Hometown Hero Banner series honoring first responders, healthcare workers and teachers.
For years, our Hometown Heroes Veteran Banners have been a beloved part of downtown each summer. They turn Main Street into a living tribute. The Design Team created this new winter and spring series so other essential members of our community can be honored in the same way — by name, on the decorative light poles that line the heart of our city.
If you would like to feature a loved one on a banner, please fill out the form below by October 27, 2026.
Qualifications
To qualify for the Community Banner Program, one of the following criteria must be met:
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First responders who answer the call. Healthcare workers who care for our families. Teachers who shape Ottumwa’s future.
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If they have ties to this community, they belong on Main Street.
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The applicant is a current resident or business based in Ottumwa.
Banner Style and Display
Each banner is double sided, full color, 24” x 48” and custom made with an image of the honoree (provided by the applicant).
Banners will be placed on the decorative light poles on Main Street on or about January 15, 2027 and will remain up through mid-May 2027.
They will be displayed again from mid-January to mid-May 2028 in another part of the Main Street District.
As many as 32 members of the community will be honored. There is a limit of one banner per honoree, and one person per banner.
Banners will be sold on a first come, first served basis as payment is received.
Main Street Ottumwa or the City of Ottumwa will not be responsible for replacing banners that are stolen, damaged or destroyed due to sun, weather, age, vandalism, or any act of nature beyond our control, such as high winds.
Upon removal of the banner after the second year, every effort will be made to give the banner to the honoree or applicant.
Cost and Details
$185 per banner, for two-years. Cost covers the purchase of the banner, installation, and maintenance, as well as a contribution to the Ottumwa Food Bank. Honoring someone you love should also help a neighbor put food on the table.
Applicant is required to provide a high-quality photo of the honoree. If a digital copy is not available, please bring the picture to the Main Street Ottumwa office, 334 East Main Street, and it will be digitized for you.
Deadline for applications is October 27th, 2026.
