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You are here: Home / Archives for Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce

Waukee Chamber Annual Meeting & Silent Auction

March 1, 2021 by Darby Brincks

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce 2021Annual Meeting was held virtually on Thursday, Feb. 18. Our guests enjoyed Zoom networking, presentations from Chamber leadership, award recognition and keynote speakers Beth Shelton and Jacob Repp.

The Chamber presented the following awards, recognizing members making a significant contribution in business and community involvement: Citizen of the Year – Reggie Bell; Member of the Year – Waukee Area Christian Services; and Volunteer of the Year – Gina Campos. Outgoing Board recognition included Blake Brown, Sam Huey, Gary Wiedenfeld and Ray Meister. A gavel plaque was presented to 2020 Board Chair, Bob Baumgart.

Thanks to all sponsors, members and community residents who helped us celebrate! We truly appreciate our Waukee Chamber Community Development Committee, Board of Directors, staff, intern and volunteers who helped with the auction and annual meeting details!

Citizen of the Year | Reggie Bell
Volunteer of the Year | Gina Campos
Member of the Year | Waukee Area Christian Services | Melissa Stimple

Waukee Legislative Coffee
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce will welcome Waukee State Senator Sarah Trone Garriott and State Representative Kenan Judge to speak with Waukee residents, Chamber members and guests at the Waukee Legislative Coffee via Zoom on Saturday, March 6 at 9:00 a.m. An update will be provided about what is happening at the state level and guests will have the opportunity to ask questions. The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce is a non-partisan organization, and is hosting this event as a service to our members and the community.

Waukee Chamber Save-the-Dates

June 17: Annual Golf Outing

Sept 9: Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour

Nov 7-13: Waukee Restaurant Week – To Go!

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce is an association of businesses, organizations and individuals dedicated to promoting growth and prosperity in our local economy.

www.waukeechamber.com

Filed Under: Business, City of Waukee, Lifestyles, My City, Waukee, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber

Waukee Chamber of Commerce

January 7, 2021 by Darby Brincks

Waukee Chamber 2021 Annual Meeting & Silent Auction
The Waukee Chamber Annual Meeting & Silent Auction will be held Thursday, Feb. 18 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in a virtual setting. Join the Chamber for an evening to celebrate the Waukee business community!

The evening will begin with a ZOOM networking social, followed by a video program featuring the accomplishments of 2020, introduction of the 2021 Board of Directors, announcement of plans for 2021 and award recognition of the Member of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Citizen of the Year and outgoing Board leadership.  The evening will conclude with keynote speakers Jacob Repp and Beth Shelton.

More information is available online at waukeechamber.com. 

Please contact us with any questions at info@waukeechamber.com or by phone at 515-978-7115. We are excited to celebrate the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce 2021 Annual Meeting & Silent Auction with you!

Good Morning Waukee

Thanks to the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce members for joining Good Morning Waukee on Tuesday, Dec. 8. The event featured a Chamber update, guest introductions and a conversation with Todd McDonald, Board President of the Waukee Betterment Foundation, who presented on the Waukee EPIC Inclusive Playground, scheduled to open in 2022!

The Waukee Betterment Foundation has made great strides in bringing the all-inclusive park to life. The group is in need of $200,000 before February 2021 to qualify for major grants that become available next spring. If you would like to consider supporting this incredible project, please visit: http://waukeebetterment.org/give/donor-recognition/

The Good Morning Waukee video presentation is available on YouTube for anyone who missed it.

Waukee Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh Ribbon-Cutting

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce helped to welcome Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh to Waukee on Tuesday, Nov. 10 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony!

Waukee Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh offers mealtime entrees, nori sushi, fresh produce, and so much more!

Check out this business online at hy-vee.com.

Filed Under: Business, City of Waukee, Events, Lifestyles, Waukee, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber

Waukee Chamber of Commerce

November 24, 2020 by Darby Brincks

Waukee Chamber Thank You
Thank you to all Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce members for your membership and support of the Chamber this past year. Thank you to the Waukee Chamber Board of Directors, staff, ambassadors and volunteers for all of your dedication and commitment to help make 2020 a success!

Summit Homes Open for Business

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce helped Summit Homes celebrate their Grand Opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Welcome to Waukee!

Get Involved in a Chamber Committee
Enhance your presence throughout the Waukee business community and have a great time getting involved! We are confident the Chamber can deliver results. Get involved and you will surely see a difference! Your membership is best leveraged when you have a presence within the Chamber. We offer a wide variety of ways to do so, taking into account different budgets and schedules. Opportunities range from advertising to sponsorships, to joining or leading a committee.

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce Committees:
Government Affairs – Serves as legislative voice of the Chamber membership. 

Community Development – Increases membership involvement in Chamber and community activities. 

Membership – Promotes and supports existing businesses while encouraging and assisting new business. 

Economic Development – Works in cooperation with the City of Waukee and others to promote economic growth in the Waukee area. 

Scholarship – Provides a scholarship to a WHS senior who will attend an Iowa institution in the fall of the year following graduation. 

Waukee YP – Empowers young professionals who live or work in Waukee to come together, build relationships and make a positive impact within the local community.

Ambassadors – Active members who help to accelerate connections through the Chamber. 

For more information about the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, visit our website at waukeechamber.com or contact Chamber President Melinda Behn at mbehn@waukeechamber.com or (515) 978-7115.

Waukee Young Professionals at Saints.

Best Ways to Enhance Your Chamber Membership Experience
1.) Serve. Volunteer on one of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce seven committees: Government Affairs, Community Development, Economic Development, Membership, Scholarship, Waukee YP or Ambassadors.

2.) Refer local business.

3.) Participate. Get involved by attending our monthly programs!

4.) Promote. Highlight your business in one of our signature events: Annual Dinner & Silent Auction, Golf Outing or the Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour.

5.) Patronize existing businesses.

6.) Support new businesses. Welcome new businesses to our community by stopping in, sending a card or supporting their grand opening celebration.

7.) Stay “in the know.” Read the Waukee Chamber Business Report.

8.) Share. Submit your successes, job openings and events to share in our communications to membership.

9.) Collaborate with local organizations to strengthen our community.

10.) Connect with the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce by using our membership directory.

Filed Under: Business, City of Waukee, Lifestyles, My City, Waukee, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce

November 23, 2020 by admin

Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee will host the 8th annual Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 4:00 p.m. The tour will take place virtually. This event is open to the public and will highlight community information as well as business, school and residential development. Registration is required. To register, please visit our website at waukeechamber.com. Please contact the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce with any questions at 515-978-7115 or info@waukeechamber.com.

Waukee YP
Waukee Young Professionals (Waukee YP) is a committee of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, connecting and providing growth opportunities for young professionals who work or live in the Waukee area. Join us for the next Waukee YP Casual Coffee or Social!  

New Businesses
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce has welcomed 23 new members this year! Recent Waukee business openings include The Nest Pediatric Dentistry, Firestone Complete Auto Care, Fleet Farm, RE/MAX Concepts and Sleep Inn & Mainstay Suites!

In addition, Timberline Family Dental recently held a groundbreaking ceremony with plans to open in the spring of 2021. Please check our calendar at waukeechamber.com for other events and join us to help our new business owners feel welcome in Waukee!

Filed Under: Lifestyles, My City, Waukee, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce

November 23, 2020 by Darby Brincks

Thank You for Shopping Local
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting growth and prosperity in our local economy. Thank you for continuing to support our Waukee business community! 

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce 2020 Annual Golf Outing
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce 2020 Annual Golf Outing was held on June 18 at the Beaver Creek Golf Course. Golfers participated in activities at each tee, sponsored by member businesses. Our guests enjoyed a round of golf and business networking. The western theme offered each guest the opportunity to wear their protective face mask (provided by the Chamber) in style. The Chamber also provided a boxed lunch and lots of bottled water from Waukee Hy-Vee!

Thanks to all of our business member sponsors, who were highlighted on signage throughout the golf course. The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce would like to thank our Board of Directors, Community Development Committee, Ambassadors, staff and other volunteers for helping to make the day so enjoyable for all of our members!

Best Ways to Enhance Your Membership Experience
1.) Volunteer on a Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce Committee (Government Affairs, Community Development, Economic Development, Membership, Scholarship, Waukee YP & Ambassadors).

2.) Refer local business.

3.) Get involved by attending Good Morning Waukee, our monthly Waukee Chamber Networking Luncheon or After Hours (provided virtually on Zoom through the summer).

4.) Highlight your business at a signature event, such as the Annual Dinner & Silent Auction, What’s Cookin’ in Waukee, Golf Outing or the Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour.

5.) Patronize existing businesses.

6.) Support new businesses by welcoming them to our community and being a part of their Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony!

7.) Stay “in the know” with the weekly Waukee Chamber Business Report.

8.) Share your successes, job openings and events in our communications to Chamber membership.

9.) Collaborate with local organizations to strengthen our community.

10.) Connect with the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce by using our online or printed membership directory.

Waukee Farmers Market

The Waukee Downtown Business Group will host the Waukee Farmers Market on Wednesdays starting June 17 through September from 4 -7 p.m.in the historic Waukee Triangle Park.

Waukee School to Work Graduation
Congratulations to all Waukee High School (WHS) students who participated in the School to Work program. Thank you to Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce intern, Lily Couchman! WHS connects high school seniors with local business internships for hands-on experience in a field of interest and class credit! Thanks to our business community for supporting this awesome program!

Waukee Scholarship Recipients Recognized
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, along with Board Scholarship Chairs Ray Meister of Security National Bank and Ashley Rottinghaus of West Bank, recognized two Waukee High School Seniors, Caitlin Henriksen and Frances Loeffelholz, as recipients of the Chamber’s 2020 scholarships on May 28!

More information can be found on the Chamber’s website at www.waukeechamber.com. If you have any questions, please email info@waukeechamber.com or call 515-978-7115.

Filed Under: Lifestyles, Waukee, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber

Waukee Leadership Institute Profile : Kellyn Pappas

November 23, 2020 by Darby Brincks

Over the past few years, miniature food pantries have sprung up all around the Des Moines metro. These small boxes, stocked with nonperishable food, are available any time of day for anyone in need—a small-scale way to help combat food insecurity in the community. Waukee residents will soon see these Little Free Food Pantries in their neighborhood as well, thanks to the recently-graduated Waukee Leadership Institute Class of 2020.

The Waukee Leadership Institute began in 2006 as the brainchild of Waukee’s former mayor Bill Peard and co-founder Larry Lyon. Both men were serving on the Waukee City Council at the time, and according to Peard, both thought the city of Waukee was in need of a way to “keep the leadership pipeline full”—not just for elected officials, but for community leaders, as well. The two created the program as a way to develop leaders through education, networking, mentoring and roundtable discussions.

A significant amount of time and effort went into developing the Institute, which is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. “It was a labor of love for a lot of people,” said Peard. “It’s truly a volunteer effort.” The founders took some cues from other leadership institutes in the area, but ultimately, Peard explained, “We kind of just jumped in the deep end of the pool and figured it out from there.” The Institute’s first class graduated in 2007.

Class members apply online each year over the summer and meet on a monthly basis from September to April. Each year’s class is capped at 20-25 people. “We feel that is a good size,” said Institute Board Director Terry Snyder, an Institute Class of 2012 graduate herself. “It’s not too big, not too small.”

Class of 2020 graduate Gretchen Stanger, who works as the Youth and Family Program Director at the Waukee YMCA, became interested after hearing about a coworker’s experience in the program the year before. “[She] shared her experience with me and it piqued my interest,” she said.  Larry Hingst, also a 2020 graduate, had just accepted a new role as a sales manager at Gilcrest/Jewett Lumber Company in Waukee when he enrolled. “I was asked to enroll…about one week before it was going to start,” he said.

Fellow classmate April Samp, who worked as the News Director and creator of the We Are Iowa brand at WOI-TV Channel 5 and currently owns her own producing and consulting company, first heard about the Institute on the golf course. “I first heard about WLI from current President Rick Kyser in a fortuitous meeting on the Sugar Creek Golf Course,” she explained. “I was paired with Rick and his wife for a round of golf, and he talked to me about the program.”

Despite varying levels of familiarity with the Institute and with the curriculum, class members quickly realized they had made a good decision.  “I quickly felt it would be a good fit, both personally and professionally,” said Stanger.

Hingst agrees. “Going in, I really did not know a lot about the program,” he said. “I realized this was going to be more fun and interesting than I had anticipated!” 

Although class content has been refined somewhat over the years, the core components of the curriculum remain the same. According to Snyder, each class “learns how the Waukee city government works, how our economic development department attracts new business to Waukee, and how the school district handles the population growth of the city.”

Waukee’s mayor and city administrator are regular annual presenters, as is Waukee’s police chief, John Quinn, whose Introduction to Leadership class has become a staple on the schedule. Snyder commented that the curriculum has been enhanced over time, as well. “Former Governor Tom Vilsack presented for the class of 2020, and he is scheduled to present again [for] the class of 2021,” she explained.

A session on state government, presented by Iowa Senator Charles Schneider and Representative Kenan Judge, is also on the schedule for next year. The Institute has also added a class where representatives from a small, medium and large business in Waukee present to class members on their leadership style and how the size of their business impacts the way they lead.  

Graduates have high praise for the class content and presenters. “I appreciated how carefully the topics and presenters were planned. It truly made for an immersive experience,” said Stanger.

Hingst said he learned a lot about the operations of the city government and was impressed by what he heard from presenters. “One of the things that really stood out [was that] the leaders that we have in our community really put the city first in their decisions,” he said. “That was refreshing to see.”

The capstone each year is a final project, the aim of which is to enhance the Waukee community. “We encourage the class to think outside the box and look around town and see what they think is needed,” said Snyder. Class members pitch ideas to one another and talk through the logistics of each one. Eventually, the class as a whole makes the final decision on which project they would like to pursue.

Past class projects have included the construction of the amphitheater in Centennial Park (Class of 2013) and the installation of bike ramps on Waukee’s bike trails (Class of 2016). After talking through numerous pitches, the class of 2020 decided to tackle food insecurity in Waukee by working with Waukee Area Christian Services (WACS).

A nonprofit outreach ministry supported by Waukee-area churches, WACS operates a food pantry, a free medical clinic, a community garden and additional seasonal and children’s programs that serve all of Dallas county and into the surrounding area, as well.

The project aimed to raise awareness in the community about food insecurity and elevate the impact of WACS. For starters, the group created a marketing toolkit for WACS to use to create marketing materials to reach out to volunteers, donors and clients. According to Samp, the group also engineered “a self-functioning…food donation network.” 

This network is built around local businesses that agree to host month-long donation drives and then challenge another business to do the same in another month. “We also created a database of potential and current donors for [them] to use,” said Samp. Another major part of the marketing campaign was a short video the group produced for WACS to increase awareness of the services they provide. According to Samp, the video explains “not only what they provide, but also how people can help.” 

The class also solicited materials and labor from local businesses to construct roughly half a dozen Little Free Food Pantries, which will be placed throughout Waukee in the coming months. The pantries provide “a way for people to get the basics without having to go into WACS,” said Samp. The group also aimed to raise funds for WACS, and although some of the group’s progress fundraising was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they still managed to raise over $4,700 by the time their efforts were slowed in March. “I am pleased our class remains committed to completing the project we began in September and I’m elated to witness our efforts take shape in the community,” said Stanger.

The impact of the Waukee Leadership Institute has certainly been felt throughout the city of Waukee over the years. “I think the class projects have made a great impact on the community,” said Snyder. She also points out the great leadership the Institute has produced, such as Class of 2007 graduate Chad Airhart, who is currently the Dallas County Recorder, as well as current City Council member Anna Bergman, a Class of 2017 graduate who recently ran for Iowa State Representative.

Peard agrees. The Institute has become a “definite part of the community,” he said.

That impact is felt by the Institute’s graduates, as well. Snyder enjoyed working with the Class of 2020. “They were all very professional,” she said, adding that she appreciated “their enthusiasm for the class and the project.”

Stanger explained, “The classmates were a delightfully diverse group of welcoming, goal-driven, inspirational, and community-focused leaders.”

Samp agrees. “I enjoyed collaborating with so many smart and caring people,” she said. “I appreciated the kind hearts and strong work ethic of the group.”

Hingst was inspired by presenters’ knowledge and dedication. “Waukee has some tremendous leaders, in our government and in the private sector,” he said. “They take great pride in our community, and this is awesome to see. It inspires me to get more involved.”

That impact was felt by Samp, as well. “My son and I are planning on volunteering more regularly at WACS,” she explained. “It has enriched our family life, as well.”

The Little Free Food Pantries represent the culmination of an experience that enriched the Class of 2020 not only professionally, but personally—an experience that has carried through to their lives after graduation. Stanger perhaps best sums up the impact: “I have developed invaluable relationships with my classmates and local business leaders, gained insight about myself, become more involved with the Waukee community, strengthened my leadership style and reinforced the ambition to be the most authentic version of myself.”

Filed Under: City of Waukee, Features, Lifestyles, My City, Waukee, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce

November 23, 2020 by Darby Brincks

As an association of businesses, organizations and individuals, the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting growth and prosperity in our local economy.

Members have the chance to give back to the community and gain exposure in the marketplace by volunteering on one of our seven committees:  Membership, Community Development, Ambassadors, Government Affairs, Economic Development, Waukee YP and Scholarship.

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce offers opportunities to highlight and promote business at meetings, events and in communications.  Our members are able to share business news, job openings and updates in the weekly Waukee Chamber Business Report.  Each business member is listed in our official Waukee Chamber Directory & Community Guide and in our membership directory at www.waukeechamber.com. 



Waukee Support Local
Local business is a critical part of the Waukee community, and businesses need our support during this time.  Waukee Support Local is a Facebook group serving to promote business in the Waukee area. Business owners are invited to post business news, alternative hours, curbside pick-up, virtual service offerings and more. Waukee Support Local is created by the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, but is open to all Waukee area businesses.


Virtual Opportunities
The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting in person events virtually. 

Good Morning Waukee offers business members the opportunity to hear from a local speaker from the comfort of their own desk through ZOOM.  Guests will dial in and connect from their computer to speak with others and learn from a local speaker followed by a question and answer session.

The Virtual Waukee Chamber Networking Luncheon will allow guests to purchase lunch to go from a restaurant in Waukee and then connect on ZOOM to introduce themselves, provide a 30 second commercial and hear from a featured business speaker.

The Chamber will also be holding our Business After Hours as a Virtual Happy Hour on ZOOM.  Guests will introduce themselves and their business, separate into break out rooms to discuss business topics and return to the group.

Waukee YP will continue their Casual Coffees on ZOOM.  This is a great opportunity for young professionals to provide an introduction, connect with others and learn from a local business speaker. 

All Waukee residents and businesses are invited to join us for the virtual meetings offered each month.  Learn more and register today at www.waukeechamber.com!  

Grateful for the Support of Community

Fridley Theatres:  The Palms Theatres & IMAX sold over 500 large curb-side popcorns to go on a single Saturday!

Mi-Fiber:  It’s been very encouraging seeing communities come together in an effort to support local businesses. It shows the kindness and support that our cities are known for.

Rock Valley Physical Therapy:  We had a goal of implementing telehealth in 2020, and the COVID crisis has sped this process up. We are currently working with a patient who lives across the state whose local PT clinic closed. He was referred by a friend from Waukee who was seeing us. These types of word-of-mouth referrals are what gives me assurance that we will come through this stronger than ever!

Fresh Mediterranean Express:  We are so grateful for the amazing support we have received from the community.  They showed up on day one and have continued to show up throughout the crisis.  

Meier Family Chiropractic:  The blessing of technology to be able to connect with those we otherwise wouldn’t be able to. My wonderful patients who understand the value of natural healthcare like chiropractic!

Miller, Fidler & Hinke Insurance:  Iron sharpens iron.  The power of the Chamber is in the connections and the true value comes from the peer to peer experience sharing, especially during times like today.  

Waukee Hardware:  We are most grateful for our customers supporting us and that all our employees are staying healthy since we are in contact with so many people.

Gilcrest/Jewett Lumber Company:  I am grateful that we are allowed to remain open for business and provide continued employment for our employees. . . and equally proud of them for their dedication and sacrifices that they have to make.  I’m also quite proud of our state, its leadership, and all Iowans for locking arms and fighting the fight together.

Marco’s Pizza:   Once a week we take pizza to people who are on front lines – firemen, doctor offices, ICU, urgent care, or day cares that are supporting those fields. We have even had a few people order pizza for those groups as a way to thank you.  

Focus Eye Care:   On a bright note, it is amazing how a simple act can have huge reward for a small business. We asked our Facebook friends to simply invite all of their friends to like our page and within 5 hours we had over 500 more likes! It is amazing to see people band together and support each other during such a challenging time. When we come out of this I hope that everyone has learned how important personal connections are and the good we can do for people in our community.

Home Instead Senior Care:  My business still operates 24 hours a day.  Home Instead brings nursing home care services directly into people’s place of residence.  This allows them to stay safe and independent at home.  

Ankeny Sanitation:  Some meetings done over lunch or in person, have been reduced to Zoom meeting or conference calls, but because of all these restrictions we have gotten the chance to speak on a more personal level with our customers.

Country Lane Lodge:  Life can throw you a curve ball and this is one of the most challenging many of us have experienced.  At Country Lane Lodge we are trying to take this time to get caught up on projects around the property and take a little time to get things done at home.  We are especially grateful to our clients for working with us as we want to host the special event in their lives…soon we hope! 

GIT Insurance:  Here in Waukee, I’ve seen and heard many stories of people really trying to support local businesses.  This is so refreshing and I’d hate to see any economic growth halted for the long term. There has been a reduction in traffic accidents and many of our great auto insurance carriers that we represent are giving refunds or credits to provide some relief.  This is a nice gesture and hopefully it helps. 

Vocal Arts Unlimited:  I see so much good going on around me.  People are stepping up to serve and reaching out to others.  I see an anticipation within myself of exciting things to come.  I am embracing growth and creating new programs and business content; and planning a vibrant next experience for myself and my associates that will help us all survive and thrive.  I see a new reality that can be powerful and rewarding for those who will embrace their inherent capabilities and natural gifts and talents; and recognize that they have great worth and have the capability to determine their future condition.

Willard Garage:  We received a note from Helen, a customer, over the weekend.  Dropped in our key drop box, it read: To Brian and Peggy and everyone; We LOVE you…………    Thank you to Helen, that was an amazing unexpected blessing, it really struck a nerve in a beautiful way amidst all the fog of how uncertain and upside down so many things feel right now.

Waukee Dental:  So many amazing acts of kindness shine through during these times, due to being in the healthcare industry my favorite stories are those donating personal protective equipment and those making cloth masks at home to donate to healthcare providers. I thank everyone who is out there providing assistance and needs in any way!

Filed Under: Lifestyles, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber

Growing with the Community: 20 Years of the Waukee Chamber of Commerce

January 15, 2019 by Elyssa_ Appleton

In 2019, the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce will celebrate 20 years of fostering growth, professional development, and connections within the community. The anniversary will be celebrated with a dinner and silent auction in February.

Since its inception in 1999, the chamber has added 290 members to its roster—beginning with 40 and now boasting 330. Members include area businesses and organizations of all sizes, as well as individuals with a passion for promoting growth and prosperity in the community.

Melinda Behn, President of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce, said the organization provides its members with opportunities to network, enhance their financial growth, participate in professional development and contribute to a thriving community.

“The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce connects members to hundreds of companies throughout our region,” said Behn. “When a company joins the chamber, all employees gain access to our network of businesses and professionals from the area and Central Iowa region—through the Greater Des Moines Partnership.”

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce also offers members opportunities to develop business relationships and referrals, attend events such as ribbon-cutting ceremonies, and provide access to career and volunteer opportunities.

Members also can enhance their impact and presence in the community by attending meetings and events, sponsoring chamber events and joining and/or leading a committee.

Along with Behn’s leadership, the chamber is governed by a board of directors—business members from the community. Behn said each board member chairs a committee that, in collaboration with chamber committee members, is responsible for carrying out the chamber’s priorities.

The association’s committees include:

Membership: This group supports existing and new businesses. The committee hosts new membership welcome breakfasts twice a year and distributes the Waukee Chamber Monday Business Report—a newsletter with information about chamber happenings.

Community Development: This committee organizes and promotes the chamber’s annual dinner, as well as What’s Cookin’ in Waukee, the golf outing and Waukee Fall Harvest. It also coordinates the chamber’s participation in community-wide events such as Itty-Bitty Olympics at Celebrate Waukee.

Scholarship: A one-time annual scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from Waukee High School who plans to attend an Iowa institution following graduation. This committee focuses on creating awareness of the scholarship and selecting the recipient.

Waukee YP: Waukee Young Professionals (Waukee YP) is a new committee that connects and provides growth opportunities for young professionals who work or live in the Waukee area.

Government Affairs: This committee serves as the legislative voice of the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce membership. This committee stays up-to-date on legislative issues affecting businesses, participates in regional public policy meetings and events, and hosts election year forums. In the near future, the Waukee Chamber will partner with the metro’s west-side affiliate chambers to talk about the upcoming legislative session.

Economic Development: This committee organized the Sixth Annual Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour in September at Brick Towne at Kettlestone, off University. The tour showcased Waukee’s growing community by highlighting new development projects—such as the Holmes Murphy building off Grand Prairie Parkway and The Palms Theatre and IMAX venue off NE Westgate Drive.

Ambassadors: These are active members who help facilitate networking among members.

Paul Kerkhoff, owner of Kerkhoff Chiropractic, said the chamber has grown to be recognized as a premier professional business organization with ties that reach across the nation. “This involvement reaches international corporations as well as our state and national legislature. Being part of this organization brings our ideals and interests together for even greater opportunities for our future and generations to follow,” said Kerkhoff.

Don Frazer, owner of Heartland Co-op and a three-year chamber board member, said being a member has positively impacted his business. “The contact with other local business leaders has opened up additional opportunities,” he said. “The chamber has been an important part of the explosion of new businesses in Waukee, and growth is good for everyone.”

Both Frazer and Behn said one of the chamber’s biggest recent accomplishments is finding a new space for the organization to reside. Located at 208 W. Hickman Road in Waukee, the chamber has called their current location home for nearly two years. “The Board invested a significant amount of time in helping to locate the space, negotiate the lease and assist with the build out. We are truly fortunate to have so many wonderful people in our chamber who care about the future of Waukee,” said Behn.

The 2019 Waukee Chamber Annual Dinner and Silent Auction will provide a summary of 2018 accomplishments, a look at the year ahead, an introduction of the 2019 Board of Directors and recognition of the 2018 Member and Ambassador of the Year.  The event will be held Feb. 21 from 5:00 – 9:30 p.m. at the Sheraton in West Des Moines.

For more information about the Chamber, visit https://www.waukeechamber.com.

 

Filed Under: Features, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber

Chamber News: Nov/Dec 2018

November 19, 2018 by admin

Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce News

Waukee Hardware Anniversary Celebration
On Saturday, Sept. 29, Waukee Hardware Celebrated a Grand Re-Opening, 20-Year Anniversary of Ownership (by Geoff and Anne Warmouth) and 140-Year Anniversary of the Store’s Opening (in 1878)!
Waukee Hardware is located at 380 6th St. in Waukee.

Waukee Chamber September Non-Profit Roundtable Luncheon
Thank-you to the following Waukee non-profit organizations for presenting at the Sept. 27 Chamber Luncheon at the Waukee Community Center: Waukee American Legion, Waukee Area Christian Services, Waukee Area Historical Society, Waukee Betterment Foundation, Waukee Community Closet, Waukee Downtown Business Group, Waukee Family YMCA, Waukee Leadership Institute, Waukee Public Library Friends Foundation, Waukee Community Schools Foundation, The Brenton Arboretum, Goodwill of Central Iowa, ISU Extension and Outreach-Dallas County and the Rotary Club of Waukee.


Waukee’s Ninth Elementary School Under Construction
The Waukee Chamber Economic Development Committee toured Radiant Elementary during their Sept 26 committee meeting, followed by lunch at Panchero’s Mexican Grill in Waukee.  Radiant Elementary is the Waukee Community School District’s ninth elementary school, and will open in the Fall of 2019.


Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour Thank-You
The Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour was held on Thursday, Sept. 13.  The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce filled four buses for the sixth annual event.  The City of Waukee guided the hour-long tour showcasing development projects in Waukee.  Hosting sponsor Brick Towne at Kettlestone provided a business after-hours event following the tour with beverages, networking and food from Marco’s Pizza and Which Wich Superior Sandwiches.
 

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee works in cooperation with the City of Waukee, Waukee Chamber members and others to promote economic growth in the Waukee area.  Thank-you to our bus tour sponsors, including Access Systems, Ankeny Sanitation, City of Waukee, Denny Elwell Company, Gilcrest/Jewett Lumber Company, Landmark Development Services, Inc., Per Mar Security, State Savings Bank, University of Iowa Community Credit Union, Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce and West Bank! We appreciate all Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce members and guests for participating!  Thank you to our Waukee 2018 Economic Development Bus Tour sponsors!

Filed Under: Events, My City, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber

Waukee Chamber Updates: September/October 2018

September 12, 2018 by admin

Waukee YP

Waukee Young Professionals (Waukee YP) is a new committee of the Chamber, connecting and providing growth opportunities for young professionals who work or live in the Waukee area. Join us for the next Waukee YP Social!

Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour 

The Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee will host the 6th annual Waukee Economic Development Bus Tour on Thursday, September 13 at 3:30 p.m.  The tour will start and end in with a reception to follow at 5:00 p.m. at Brick Towne at Kettlestone in Waukee. This event is open to the public and will highlight community information, business, school and residential development. No cost to attend. Seats are limited.  Please RSVP to www.waukeechamber.com for a seat on the bus tour. Please contact us with any questions at 515-978-7115 or info@waukeechamber.com.

 

New Businesses

The Chamber has welcomed 38 new members this year and celebrated local grand openings with 20 of those businesses.  We look forward to celebrating many more scheduled ribbon-cutting ceremonies and business anniversaries over the next couple months.  Please check our calendar at www.waukeechamber.com and join us to help our new business owners feel welcome in Waukee!

Networking Luncheon: Nonprofit Roundtable

Join us on Thursday, September 27 at the Waukee Community Center for our monthly Chamber Networking Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. and learn about nonprofit organizations in the Waukee community.

Develop business relationships, hear from Chamber leadership and have the opportunity to introduce yourself and your business!  Please RSVP to www.waukeechamber.com.

 

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Filed Under: Activities, Events, Lifestyles, My City, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber Tagged With: entertainment, events, family activities, Lifestyles, waukee, Waukee Area Chamber Of Commerce, Waukee Chamber, Waukee Iowa

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