West YP Sets New Membership Record

WEST DES MOINES, IA (July 29, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce’s young professionals program, West YP, has reached a new milestone with 273 members representing 106 businesses across Central Iowa—the highest in program history. Membership continues to grow weekly.

West YP offers monthly events focused on professional development, networking, and leadership. Anyone can join year-round, with 2025 dues currently prorated to $40.

"We're building something special here. West YP is about showing up for your growth, your goals, and each other—and it’s clear our members are doing just that. It’s exciting to watch this momentum build across the region thanks to both the West YP Committee and the members’ dedication," said Kara Matheson, Vice President of Workforce Development at the West Des Moines Chamber.

The program is also highlighting its most engaged members through the VYP Leaderboard, which tracks participation through a point system in the West YP app. Members earn points by attending events, connecting with others, and inviting guests.

Top 20 VYPs:

• Jacob Repp – Principal

• Jaden Adams – Breath. Physical Therapy & Wellness

• Macy McAllister – Breath. Physical Therapy & Wellness

• Emani Brinkman – City of West Des Moines

• Kelsey Prescott – Comparion Insurance Agency – Liberty Mutual

• Jake Wisel – Comparion Insurance Agency – Liberty Mutual

• Frani McDermott – EquiTrust Life Insurance Company

• Thomas Zimny – Lincoln Savings Bank

• Spencer Peterson – Northwest Bank

• Lorenzo Gordon – NCMIC

• Lydia Broadhead – Merkle Retirement Planning

• Amanda Drey – IMT Insurance

• Kaitlyn Kottlowski – Wellabe

• Emily Crowley – Wellabe

• Payton Burken – Wellabe

• Nora Walsh – SVN | CREATE

• Chelsey Kimmel-Kendrick – West Bank

• Emma Bowen – Community Supports Advocates

• Sarah Estes – American Equity

• Isaiah Thomas – Century 21 Signature Real Estate

These members are recognized for their strong involvement in the program. Additional recognition and year-end rewards will follow.

Join West YP
An information session will be held Monday, September 9, at BeerStyles in West Des Moines. Attendees will learn about events, benefits, and how to get involved.

To learn more and register, visit https://wdmchamber.org/west-yp.
 

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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 900 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