That’s How Its Dun’!! – July, 2026
Austin McDonald receives ‘That’s How It’s Dun’ honor
By Jill Schaben, DCDC
For the Harrison County Times-Reporter
The Dunlap Community Development Corporation has named Austin McDonald the recipient of its quarterly “That’s How It’s Dun” Award, recognizing residents who demonstrate outstanding commitment to the community through service, leadership and volunteerism.
Dunlap’s Austin McDonald is the founder and CEO of Roberto’s Foods. While he has built a successful business, he is equally known for his dedication to community organizations and events that help make Dunlap a vibrant place to live.
Over the years, McDonald has worn many hats in the community. He has served on the DCDC board for approximately 10 years, co-founded the Boyer Valley Community Alumni Association and dedicated a decade of service to the Dunlap Fourth of July Committee. He also served during the early stages of the Dunlap Wellness Center board.
For McDonald, community involvement is simply part of being a resident.
“I think we have a civic duty to support the community that we live in,” he said.
One of the things McDonald appreciates most about Dunlap is the strong support residents show for one another and for local businesses.
“I’ve always said there’s a lot of bang for your buck in Dunlap,” McDonald said.
“I’ve always been a big fan of the locally owned businesses. Everything is locally and privately owned as a whole. Another thing is that it is a community that rallies behind the community. People like to support [Dunlap] not only with their actions but their wallets.”
That support has been evident throughout his career. McDonald credits local businesses and residents for encouraging the growth of Roberto’s Foods over the years.
“Smitty’s has been a huge supporter,” he said. “They are a wonderful resource for people to get a great variety of my products. People have always been supportive and encouraging of what I do.”
McDonald also believes Dunlap continues to build on its strengths and create opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
“Big picture, I see Dunlap doing well in all aspects’” he said.
Among his volunteer commitments, McDonald particularly enjoys helping organize the community’s annual Fourth of July celebration, an event that draws visitors from across western Iowa.
“It’s a chance for not only our community, but other communities, because Dunlap is such a big draw for the Fourth of July, to celebrate our independence and what makes us who we are as Americans and Iowans,” he said.
When asked what he would tell someone considering volunteering, McDonald offered a simple but powerful message.
“If not you, then who?” he said. “We’re all busy. We’ve all got our own lives, but it is essential for us to do these things.”
The “That’s How It’s Dun” Award recognizes individuals whose efforts help strengthen the community and inspire others to get involved. Through years of volunteer leadership, community service and support for local organizations, McDonald exemplifies the spirit of the award.
