West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Launches “Google Fiber Founding Member Challenge”

WEST DES MOINES, IA (November 12, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces the launch of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Foundation (WDM Chamber Foundation) and a Google Fiber Match Challenge at a ribbon cutting on November 12, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the WDM Chamber office.

At the ribbon cutting, the Board of Trustees announced a “$5,000 Foundation Founders Gift and Google Fiber Match Challenge” where organizations and individuals become founding members of the foundation with their gift of $5,000 or more through the end of 2024, to help jump start the funds for the foundation. Current Founding Members include Google Fiber, Athene, Merchants Bonding Company, Doug & Colette Loots, Sheldon & Elizabeth Ohringer, and Craig Walter & Katherine Harrington.

The foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to addressing community and regional needs in innovative ways and is one of ten special initiatives celebrating the WDM Chamber’s 100-year anniversary, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to serving the community. The WDM Chamber Foundation’s mission is to collaborate with area business leaders and key stakeholders to solve community problems, create opportunities, and support the thriving future of West Des Moines. Foundation pillars of focus are workforce development, economic prosperity, and civic engagement.

"Google Fiber is proud to support the West Des Moines Chamber Foundation as a Founding Member," said Rachel Merlo-Head of Government and Community Affairs - Central Region. "We believe in the Foundation’s mission to uplift our community by driving workforce development, economic prosperity, and civic engagement. As part of West Des Moines’ vibrant future, we’re excited to help set the stage for transformative growth and meaningful connections within the region."

"As a member of the West Des Moines community, it’s an honor to help launch the West Des Moines Chamber Foundation," said Doug Loots, West Des Moines City Councilman. "This Foundation represents our shared commitment to a brighter future through initiatives that empower our workforce, strengthen our economy, and foster civic engagement. I look forward to seeing the impactful change we’ll make together for the community we call home."

The WDM Chamber Foundation is poised to become the premier nonprofit organization in the region, fostering innovation and addressing community needs. This new venture underscores our commitment to the city of West Des Moines and the Greater Des Moines Region, ensuring a prosperous and thriving future for all.

Benefits of becoming a Foundation Founding Member are recognition on the Foundation Website, in press releases, on the Foundation brochure, and in additional marketing throughout the year. If you would like to make a donation to the Foundation, please send a check to: West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Attention Katherine Harrington – 650 S. Prairie View Drive, Suite #110, West Des Moines, IA 5066 or email katherine@wdmchamber.org.

For more information about the WDM Chamber Foundation, please visit our website at https://wdmchamber.org/wdm-chamber-foundation.
 
###
 
About the WDM Chamber of Commerce
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, established in 1924, is a dynamic organization dedicated to championing all things West Des Moines. With a focus on strengthening local businesses, providing personalized resources, and attracting a top-tier workforce, the Chamber aims to position WDM as the best suburban city in America. Celebrating a century of excellence, the Chamber boasts a diverse community of over 800 members, offering something for everyone. Explore the possibilities, learn more about the chamber, and discover how you can get involved in shaping the future of West Des Moines at wdmchamber.org