Wait… isn’t that every day?

BY: RACHEL WUMKES

Celebrated annually on the third Wednesday in October, the purpose of Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day is to strengthen local businesses by encouraging people to use the services offered by chamber members.

Something we should strive to do daily.

The United States Chamber of Commerce has existed since 1912 after President Taft brought the concept to fruition.  The Iowa Chamber of Commerce Executives were formed in 1916, with Clear Lake hopping on board the Chamber train in 1943.

In most communities, the Chamber of Commerce is focused on local business.  Their main goal is supporting them and encouraging the community to shop local.

While that is a main focus in Clear Lake, it is not our only focus.

We are different.

Unique.

Not only do we support and help our members, but we also welcome thousands of guests to the community with open arms.

On any given day, the phone rings off the hook with people asking, “How do I get tickets for the Lady of the Lake?” or “How do I get to the Surf Ballroom?” or “Where’s a good place to eat?”  Another favorite is the frequent request for vacation rentals near the water or where to stay during their visit.

And so, we tell them.  We give directions and guide them to our many chamber members.

But that’s not all.

Another ‘check’ on the unique side are our signature events.  Now, I may be biased, but I think we host the best community events around.  Not many other Chambers across the country partner with their tourism department like we do here in Clear Lake.  Our events have become nothing less than iconic in North Iowa.  People come from far and wide, planning their trip to the Lake around the happenings of Harvest Festival or Christmas by the Lake.

They come by the carload for Color the Wind to see the beautiful kites flying above our frozen oasis.  And our 4th of July Extravaganza pulls thousands of people at every age, every demographic and background to our quaint little community for a week filled with good old-fashioned fun!

Curious how can YOU encourage your local Chamber of Commerce?

Here are the top six ways to show your support.
  1. Financially
    • This is an obvious one… and simple! Become a member of the Clear Lake Chamber!  Our organization has individual and non-profit members as well as business members. To inquire about becoming a member, contact Stacy Doughan at stacy@clearlakeiowa.com or by calling 641-357-2159.  Another way to give financial support is to sponsor an event.  These funds help provide the best entertainment and experiences for the countless people in attendance.  Or you can simply donate to the organization to be utilized where it is most needed.
  2. Volunteer
    • Finding help to pull off all these events is a key element in their success! If you’d like to add your name to our master database volunteer list, please send an email to ashley@clearlakeiowa.com
  3. Join a Committee
    • This not only is a good way to lead our organization to the best possible outcome but can be a rewarding process for you as well. Networking with other business professionals and making connections, all while doing good for the betterment of your community!
  4. Be a ‘Social’ Butterfly
    • We sure do LOVE to engage with the community on our social media pages. The best way you can help us support our business community is to LIKE, COMMENT and SHARE those posts!  The more activity, the more the public sees them!
  5. Attend Events
    • You already get a gold star for this one! Seeing all your smiling faces as you support our many signature events makes our hearts soar.  For details on all the fantastic events held throughout the year, go to our website at https://clearlakeiowa.com/events/
  6. Shop Local
    • I’ve saved the most important for last. When you shop at locally owned or independent businesses in your community, more money is kept within the community.  The ‘little guy’ is your neighbor, your friend, and buying from them doesn’t just mean you’re getting an incredible product and service but creating a ripple effect through the community.  Because that ‘little guy’ will turn around and spend their money in town, too, compounding the economic impact and making Clear Lake one incredible place to live.
There you have it, my friends!

An easy-peasy way to join in the celebration!  We thank you for your continued and unwavering support throughout the years.  You all have been the BEST cheerleaders for our organization, and we look forward to serving this community for years to come!