Vibrant community/economic organizations are essential to the long term growth of most successful local governments. These organizations provide a vast array of resources which help municipalities achieve many of their immediate and long term goals.
Starting this month, the City of Irondale will highlight local organizations that exemplify; leadership, service and dedication to moving our city forward. The first organization we will recognize in our “Community Spotlight” is the Greater Irondale Chamber of Commerce.
The Greater Irondale Chamber of Commerce has long been one of Irondale’s premier economic/community development organizations. The Greater Irondale Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to providing members an environment where businesses, organizations, and the local community can be successful and enhance the quality of life in the Irondale area.
Since joining the Chamber in 2014, Executive Director, Tellis Shoemaker has transformed the Irondale Chamber into a world-class organization. According to Irondale Mayor Tommy Joe Alexander, ” Tellis has brought an energy and creative spirit that has been invaluable to our city. We are lucky to have her on our team.”
A few accomplishments the Chamber has achieved under Ms. Shoemaker’s leadership include:
- Assisted in launching the first ever Irondale City Guide.
- Improved the quality of speakers at the monthly chamber luncheon. Some noted past speakers include; Jesse Lewis (Founder of the Birmingham Times), Jefferson County Commissioner – Joe Knight, Charles Ball – Executive Director of the Regional Planning Commission, Senator Jeff Sessions and Jefferson County School Superintendent – Dr. Craig Pouncey.
- Led or assisted in implementing several successful community events including; 911 Commemoration, National Night Out, Irondale Christmas Parade, Irondale SpringFest and the Irondale Employee Appreciation Banquet.
- Partnered with the City of Irondale and the Irondale CDA on the development of Irondale On The Move, the city’s first ever comprehensive plan.
The Irondale Chamber of Commerce also play a key role in fostering community engagement and awareness via their weekly newsletter. Their newsletter is a valuable resource for all Irondale community stakeholders. It contains a vast array of information including; community events, business news stories and Irondale Chamber programs. Click on the following links to view the most recent Greater Irondale Chamber of Commerce Newsletter and their Facebook page:
The City of Irondale is truly on the move thanks to great partners like the Greater Irondale Chamber of Commerce.
