Our Vision
To be the driving force behind a thriving, interconnected Mills County where businesses, nonprofits and individuals prosper together.
Our Core Values | Community, Collaboration & Connection
Community | We believe in fostering a strong, supportive local environment where businesses and residents can thrive.
Through our commitment to Community:
- We facilitate connections between local businesses and residents
- We promote “shop local” initiatives and community events
- We serve as an information hub for new residents and visitors
- We celebrate local success stories and support community initiatives
Collaboration | We understand that success comes through working together.
Through Collaboration:
- We create partnerships between businesses, nonprofits and community leaders
- We facilitate mentorship opportunities between established and new businesses
- We coordinate joint marketing efforts and shared resources
- We bring together diverse perspectives to solve community challenges
Connection | We serve as the vital link between various stakeholders in Mills County & the region.
Through Connection:
- We bridge the gap between businesses and potential customers
- We connect new residents with local services and opportunities
- We link local businesses to regional resources and opportunities
- We facilitate networking opportunities that strengthen our business community
Our Mission
Working together to empower and advocate for the growth of Mills County, Iowa through business support, community engagement and regional collaboration.
The Mills County Chamber of Commerce is the catalyst for business growth and community prosperity in Mills County, Iowa. As a nonprofit association, we serve as the primary advocate for local businesses, nonprofits and individuals, working passionately to create an environment where enterprise thrives and community flourishes.
Our role extends beyond traditional business support. Our goals are to be:
- The first point of contact for new residents and visitors seeking local information
- A trusted resource for business referrals and community connections
- A platform for networking and collaborative opportunities
- A champion for leadership development
- An advocate for regional economic development
Through our commitment to our core values of Community, Collaboration and Connection, we build bridges between businesses, facilitate growth opportunities and continuously strengthen the fabric of Mills County.
As a voluntary organization, our strength lies in our membership and their active participation in creating a vibrant local economy. Together, we’re building more than just business success – we’re creating a stronger, more prosperous Mills County for everyone.
Staff
![](https://glenwoodia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PiaGitzy-96-1-scaled.jpg)
Gitzy Loder, Executive Director
Gitzy joined the Mills County Chamber of Commerce in October of 2024 and brings years of expertise in Human Development, Leadership Coaching, Business Growth & Sales to her role. Her experiences include working with business owners, C-suite executives and teams worldwide, driving organizational excellence. With a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Gitzy’s diverse background—including her experience living in several U.S. cities and her first-generation Chilean-American roots—provides a unique perspective to Mills County’s eight communities and beyond.
As an active community member with experience volunteering, serving on various boards and involvement with multiple Chambers of Commerce, Gitzy understands the vital role these organizations play in supporting local businesses and fostering community growth. She enjoys spending quality time with her two children and exploring the great outdoors. An avid reader of non-fiction & personal development books, she constantly seeks ways to grow both personally and professionally.
With a focus on empowering individuals, businesses, and entrepreneurs, Gitzy serves as an advocate and catalyst for collaborative partnerships and continuous growth in the community. Reach out to schedule a 1:1 Introduction or Discovery Meeting to learn more about how she can help you with your Business & Leadership growth goals. She will passionately advocate and promote your business or non-profit to drive the improvement of quality of community, work and life in the region.
Board Members
Stephanie Bowden
Past-President
712-890-9290
stephanie@copperagent.com
Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate
Lindsey Sayers
President
712-624-8035
lindseysayers16@gmail.com
Club 321
Jonathan Marshall
Vice-President
712-624-8686
jmarshall@malvern.bank
Malvern Bank
Lindsey Schomaker
Treasurer
712-527-3157
lschomaker@glenwoodstate-bank.com
Glenwood State Bank
Emily Swinford
Board Member
712-520-4237
emilysellsiowa@gmail.com
Better Homes and Gardens
Tim Jackson
Board Member
712-623-5447
tim.jackson@edwardjones.com
Edward Jones Financial Services
Lu Peverill
Board Member
402-917-0510
hello@hillsdalelily.com
Hillsdale Lily Garden