During his internship in Princeville, Trepanier worked on a variety of projects with several different government, business and civic organizations. He established a strong volunteer network of 80 people to work on downtown revitalization and recreation issues. He aided in theincorporation of the Rock

Furthermore, he spearheaded the activities which lead to the establishment of the Princeville Heritage Museum. Home to the Princeville Historical Association, it houses a living museum of vintage tractor and threshing equipment, and is now host to many festivals and special events. The Heritage Center also now serves as a weekly meeting place for area senior citizens, from Monday, Wednesday, Friday lunches to Saturday night card parties.

According to Ruthi Coats, of Princeville’s Midwest Ingredients Inc., who was President of the Princeville Civic Association during the late-90’s, “the pool, the water tower, the low interest business loan program, Illinois First Funds, a village newsletter, website and visitor brochure, the bike trail, the start of the second TIF district”, are all a legacy of the work begun by Trepanier.

Dave Sutherland, Vice President of the Princeville Village Board echoes similar sentiments, “the Business After Hours events started by Owen remain a strong tradition”. The outings are scheduled monthly at various local business sites, encouraging entrepreneurial networking. Taking part in the Peace Corps Fellows Program succeeded in “getting people past the word “no”, to say the word “yes”, and the words “we can”, states Coats, “We speak 100% (in support) of the Fellows Program, and always will.”