As my final days as the Executive Director approach, I have become somewhat nostalgic looking back over my time here. So I thought I would share some of the items I am most proud of.
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In 2018 we created and launched the first strategic plan of the Glenwood Area Chamber of Commerce.
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In 2019 we created a business toolkit to help guide new businesses
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We also were part of the leadership team that helped respond to the flood that affected so many of our friends and families.
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We launched a new website that would showcase all that Mills County has to offer.
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In 2020 we hosted weekly virtual check in calls to keep small businesses up to date on the ever changing pandemic.
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In 2021 we launched programming to help scale and support businesses called our Business Builders and Business Retention and Expansion.
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And this year we launched our Mind Your Business Podcast.
While each of these successes are items that I am proud of. The piece that I am most proud of is how the Chamber of Commerce, the board of directors and the businesses themselves, advocate on behalf of each other and continue to push forward despite challenges. It is that perseverance that will continue to allow Mills County to grow and adapt.
While leaving isn’t easy, there is a bittersweet feeling to this transition. I am pleased to announce that the hiring committee has identified my successor, Jennie Rubek. Jennie brings with her a diverse background in marketing & business development, which includes running her own small business, as well as helping to restructure several others. As a graduate of the Glenwood Community School District, Jennie’s commitment to, and familiarity with, our community spans over 25 years. Jennie’s background provides her with the insight needed to propel the Chamber of Commerce into its next chapter of being the leader of the Mills County Business Community. Join us in congratulating and welcoming Jennie to the Chamber of Commerce!