How to Get Involved with the Ames Chamber

Written by: Stacy Dreyer, 2020 Ames Chamber of Commerce Board Chair

Welcome to 2020!

Remember when you were young and 2020 seemed so far away? Well it’s here today, and the Ames Chamber of Commerce is excited to launch A Bold Vision as we embark on the new decade.

I am elated to serve as the Chair of the Ames Chamber of Commerce in 2020. As I read through the strategic plan for the Ames Chamber & Economic Development Commission, I reflected on the reasons why I am involved with these organizations. There are so many awesome things happening in Story County – and it’s exciting to be a part of the action.

Want to get involved?

1. Sign up for the weekly email from the Ames Chamber. You’ll receive information about upcoming networking and social events, workshops to help you grow your business, and other events happening in the community.
2. Once you check out the newsletter, get out your calendar and put a few events on it. Invite a friend or two to join you!
3. Check out the affiliate organizations of the Ames Chamber. These include The Ames Foundation, FUEL, Campustown Action Association, Ames Main Street, Ames Main Street Farmers Market, and Startup Ames. Each organization hosts really cool events and are always looking for volunteers. Make it your goal this year to score a volunteer t-shirt.
4. Have a young professional in your office? Encourage them to join FUEL and get involved in the community. Pay for their membership. This may be the encouragement they need to stay in Ames and invite their friends to move here for a rewarding career.
5. Tell your family and friends about the WorkInAmes.com job board. There are over 1,600 jobs posted on a consistent basis. Share with them why you chose Story County for your home.
6. Invite a business owner to a Business After Hours or a Business Builder session as your guest, and then encourage them to be a member of the Ames Chamber. This investment is really the best deal in town!
7. Get involved in advocacy. The Ames Chamber has an outstanding Public Policy program that affords you the opportunity to not only be informed about government affairs, but to also participate. You can receive a weekly email with information and you can attend events where you can speak directly with elected officials.

The Ames Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Commission work tirelessly to enhance the quality of life, spark job growth and nurture diversity and inclusion for all of Story County. It’s through our members and hard-working staff that so many wonderful things for our community and economy are accomplished.

Here’s to an exciting 2020………..and beyond!