Pride in Community Appearance, often better known as PICA, has received the Main Street Iowa Leadership Award.

That is a statewide honor celebrating exceptional volunteerism, leadership, and community impact.

PICA was founded in 2001 by Jan and Phyllis Wilson, of Fort Dodge. Its members meet twice a week during the spring, summer and fall to beautify public spaces. The group’s work includes planting, maintaining flower beds, landscaping and painting.

Since the group was established 25 years ago, its members have collectively volunteered 60,000 hours, Jan Wilson told the City Council Monday.

The group works on Tuesdays and Thursday, with about 20 volunteers at each work session.

Last year, PICA volunteers volunteered an estimated 270 hours on downtown beautification projects.

“The efforts of PICA are limited to downtown – they are everywhere – but we think we have a special place in their hearts,” said Mary Green-Warnstadt, the executive director of Main Street Fort Dodge.

During Monday’s council meeting, Mayor Dave Flattery presented a proclamation honoring the group for its long record of service and for receiving the recent state honor.

The award was presented during the recent 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards banquet in West Des Moines.

PICA was one of 45 recipients of the Leadership Award.