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December 12th, 2024

Hello Skyla,

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CEO's Corner

Hello Growth Alliance Members!

With the exciting news that Fort Dodge has been named an “Iowa Thriving Community”—one of only five communities to receive this recognition! This designation highlights our region’s commitment to growth, quality of life, and meeting the evolving needs of our community.

The recent housing study, completed through collaboration with Webster County and the City of Fort Dodge, emphasizes the critical role of housing development in supporting sustainability and workforce expansion. By addressing housing challenges and investing in redevelopment, we’re not only retaining current residents but also creating an inviting environment for newcomers.

This focus aligns perfectly with the mission of the Growth Alliance: to unify and coordinate accountable economic and community development, enhancing the quality of life in Fort Dodge, Iowa and our region.

From holiday events and housing initiatives to local markets and recreational trails, our community continues to thrive as a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work, and grow.

Have a great week and stay warm!

Kindly,

Astra Ferris, IOM

Chief Executive Officer

ALLIANCE UPDATES

Member Benefit

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RIBBON CUTTINGS

Tuesday, December 17th

Our ribbon cuttings are open to the public, and we

invite everyone to join us in celebrating the growth

and success of our businesses.

*Please note:

Going Forward, community events will only be posted 2 weeks before the date. Events can be posted to our community calendar at any time.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

Lights at Kennedy

Please mark your calendars for:

📅 December 13^th-15^th, and 20^th-22^nd

from 6:00PM-9:00PM for Lights at Kennedy, North Central Iowa’ premiere Holiday Lighting Event. This drive-through light show is choreographed to music and includes light displays sponsored by local businesses! Free will donations – all donations are appreciated!

If you’re interested in volunteering to help, please email emily@greaterfortdodge.com

Winter fun at the Fort Museum

Here's the scoop on the winter fun at the Fort Museum this Holiday season!

📅Wednesday, December 18th-

Wacky Tacky Sweater Line Dance Party

📅Sunday, December 22nd-

Winter Wonderland at the Fort Museum

**Fort Museum is open Monday-Friday 10AM-4PM Contact Deb Davis for any questions 515-573-4231

YP Ugly Christmas Sweater Extravaganza

Bring your ugliest Christmas sweater down to Amigos

📅 Friday, December 13^th @ 9:30pm.

The Fort Dodge Young Professionals are looking for volunteers for the Lights at Kennedy event. If you’re interested in volunteering, please email emily@greaterfortdodge.com. After FDYP members are done volunteering, they will head down to Amigos to listen to live music and will celebrate the season in their ugliest Christmas sweaters. Please feel free to bring any toys for a toy drive. All toy donations will be donated to help families in the area provide their children with gifts this holiday season. We hope the spirit of giving moves you to participate in helping others this season!

Photos With Santa

Stop by Peoples Credit Union to chat with Santa, grab a cookie, and snap a free photo with Santa himself.

📅Saturday, December 14th

9:30AM-11:30AM

Becker Florist Centerpiece Workshop

Join us for a delightful and creative evening as we whip up stunning holiday centerpieces!

In this workshop, you will learn how to arrange fresh holiday greens, vibrant flowers, and seasonal berries in a beautiful wooden container. Perfect for your holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift!

📅Date: December 17th

Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pm

Location: Ardys Mae Coffee & Dessert 14 S 14th St, Fort Dodge, IA 50501

What to Know Before Joining the Medical Field

Unity Point Health is inviting College and High School students considering advanced degrees and medical school to a Panel discussion with providers and medical students. Students will be able to hear personal stories, get advice, and ask questions to providers.

For a list of all events,

click here.

Check out our Community Calendar for Events

MEMBER TO MEMBER

Santa for Seniors

Santa for Seniors Program needs your help! As the holiday season has arrived, we still have over 20 seniors who need adopted! With your help we can make their holiday season a little more jollier and give them something to smile about this Christmas. If you would like to adopt a senior or multiple contact Alisa Schlief from Upper Des Moines at 515-576-7774 or email aschlief@udmo.com

Heat for the Holidays: Community Involvement Since 1912

Nate Moeller is the fourth-generation Moeller Furnace and Air owner in Fort Dodge, Iowa. We discuss Moeller Furnace & Air's recent groundbreaking, upcoming move, "Heat for the Holidays" giveaway, giving back to the community, being a staple in the community for over 100 years, and more!

Listen Here

Save the Ta Ta's

"Its always the season for Peace, Love, Hope & A Cure!" Angel Ride to Save the Ta Ta's, this year there was a total of $27,269.35 raised for a cure for cancer!

Thanks to all for your support!

Preschool Registration Open Now

St. Edmond Catholic School's 3 & 4 year old Preschool registration now open to all public families!

More info

YWCA Annual Adopt A Family

Are you interested in helping a family this Christmas? With your help, the YWCA could provide each individual and family with a special Christmas. Contact Nici for more information. Or call 515-573-3931 opt 4.

Heat For The Holidays

Moeller Furnace "Heat for the Holidays" Giveaway

Know someone who could use a little warmth this winter?

Help us make a difference and bring the gift of warmth to a deserving household just in time for Christmas!

Nominate them by sharing their story here

How to Use Photo & Video Content to Attract More Customers

People want to see how things work before making a purchase. High-quality photos and videos can showcase your products in real-life situations. It’s more relatable and gives potential customers a sense of how the product fits into their life.

Check it Out

Iowa Central Upcoming Classes