In The News
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INDIANOLA, IA — The Indianola Chamber of Commerce is partnering with regional organizations to host two important events this May aimed at strengthening businesses through education, resources, and new opportunities.
Substance Use & The Workplace: Training for Employers
Monday, May 6, 2025 | 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Lighthouse Community Center | 109 W Boston Ave, Indianola, IA
In partnership with WeLift Job Search Center and Employee & Family Resources of Iowa, the Chamber will host a training session titled "Substance Use & The Workplace" to help employers better understand and manage the impact of substance use in professional settings.
The event will provide valuable insights into:
· The substance use spectrum and its impact on the workplace
· Narcan training and overdose response
· Protecting employees through workplace policies
· Accessing to substance use and health and mental health resources
· Exploring data-driven approaches to build safer, more supportive work environments
“This event brings together practical insight, tools, resources, and real strategies that employers can implement right away,” said Amanda Zwanziger, President and CEO of the Indianola Chamber of Commerce. “We want to equip employers with the right knowledge to protect their people and create safe, supportive workplaces.”
Sue Wilson, Executive Director of WeLift Job Search Center, added, “We believe that when employers understand the full scope of substance use and take a proactive approach, it not only benefits the workforce and community, but the home. This event is an opportunity to gain confidence, clarity, and actionable steps.”
Advanced registration is required and can be found HERE.
Contracting Opportunities for Small Business: Supplier Development
Thursday, May 1, 2025 | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Hubbell Hall, Kent Campus Center | Simpson College | Indianola, IA
The Greater Des Moines Partnership, in partnership with the Indianola Chamber of Commerce and the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University are hosting "Contracting Opportunities for Small Business," a Supplier Development Lunch and Learn event designed to connect small businesses with key players in the local contracting ecosystem.
The program will include brief presentations from participating organizations on how to do business with them, followed by a networking session over a complimentary light lunch.
Participating Agencies and Organizations Include:
· City of Indianola
· Simpson College
· CIRAS
· Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA)
· Small Business Administration (SBA)
· Turner Construction
· UnityPoint Health
· Weitz Company
· Additional partners to be announced
“This event is all about building relationships that lead to opportunity,” said Juan Pablo Sanchez, Director of Inclusive Business Strategies at the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “We want to help small businesses learn the ins and outs of government and corporate contracting—and connect directly with decision-makers.”
Zwanziger added, “Local suppliers are often overlooked in major contracting conversations. This event helps us ‘buy into the circle’—by building supplier capacity locally, we keep dollars in the community and fuel economic growth.”
Registration is open now. Space is limited. Advanced registration is required and can be found HERE.
About the Indianola Chamber of Commerce
Dedicated to promoting a thriving business ecosystem, the Indianola Chamber of Commerce provides robust support to its members through networking opportunities, education, resources, and advocacy, all aimed at enhancing the economic success and quality of life in our region. Visit
www.indianolachamber.com.
About WeLift Job Search Center
WeLift Job Search Center empowers job seekers across South Central Iowa with tools, training, and individualized support to succeed in today’s workforce. Learn more at
www.weliftjobsearch.org.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization serving a 12-county region in Central Iowa. Through its extensive network, The Partnership drives growth and innovation across the region. Visit
www.dsmpartnership.com for more.
About CIRAS
The
Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University helps Iowa businesses grow through support in areas like government contracting, workforce development, innovation, and productivity. CIRAS connects companies with expert guidance and university resources to strengthen operations and foster long-term success. Learn more at www.ciras.iastate.edu.
About Employee & Family Resources
Employee & Family Resources (EFR) is a nonprofit based in Iowa that supports individuals and organizations through counseling, substance use services, and workplace programs. EFR helps businesses foster healthier, more productive work environments by providing training, resources, and support systems. Learn more at
www.efr.org.
INDIANOLA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
We foster a vibrant economic environment
while enhancing the overall quality of life in our community.
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