About Us

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

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