The Hub - Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce

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Organization Spotlight Organization Spotlight: Big Brothers Big Sisters Francesca Cunningham, a mentor coordinator with Big Brothers Big Sisters, shares some information with us about the organization. What is Big Brothers Big Sisters? Nationally, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been in existence for over 100 years. The local Grinnell Big Brothers Big Sisters Program was established in 2002 and currently serves approximately 40 children in grades kindergarten through seventh grade. How does it work? Children in kindergarten through fourth grade at Bailey Park, Fairview and Davis Elementary Schools are matched with carefully screened adults from the Grinnell community. Under the supervision of a mentor coordinator, the child meets with their mentor on a consistent basis. ● Annabelle’s Attic ● Bogie’s Book Nook ● Callie’s Corner ● Cheri Starr Jewelry ● Deja Vu Dress Consignment Why is it an important organization in the community? The concept is simple. Most can recall one or more persons from childhood, other than parents, that were instrumental in helping them become the person they are today. It may have been a grandparent, coach, teacher or a kind neighbor. That person’s special interest in their life at that time helped shape them into a confident, caring adult. That type of childhood experience lies at the core of the Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mission. What's something most people don't realize? The need for mentoring continues to grow. The national economic downturn places additional stresses on both the family unit and the individual child. Having a caring, positive role model willing to listen, encourage and inspire ● Industrial Lace ● Jennifer Weinman Photography ● Prairieland Pantry ● Sage Truffles Like Marketplace on Main on Facebook! can help children handle these additional stresses. What are the duties of a Big Brother or Big Sister? Persons interested in becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister need to complete an application, provide names of references, be interviewed and agree to a series of background checks. Once accepted, the adult is matched with a carefully selected child. Typically, the adult and child meet one on one during lunch and recess at school once a week. Periodically, the mentor coordinator communicates with the Big, the child and often the teacher or parent to provide support in the form of encouragement and advice as needed. Some, but not all, matches ● Scrap It Plus ● Simba Shop ● Sugar Rush Candy Shoppe ● Watkins eventually become community based. Occasional group activities are planned for all Bigs, Littles and their families to participate in. How can people get involved? Businesses, organizations or individuals wanting additional information about the program should contact Francesca Cunningham at 641-990-0567 or dfcham@ iowatelecom.net. Have a business idea? We can help you get started! Talk to us about starting your own shop at our retail incubator. Keep your day job while testing your idea in a low-risk environment. Call 641-236-6555 Today! Hours: Mon-Wed 10am-7pm ▫ Thu-Sat 10am-9pm ▫ Sun Noon-5pm Phone: (641)236-7000 913 Main Street, Grinnell Page 12 I GET INTO GRINNELL www.getintogrinnell.com
A Walk Around the Block New business found everything it needed downtown Schultz got everything for his business during one walk around the block When Bryan Schultz launched Opposable Thumbs, a copywriting and marketing firm, he was able to get nearly everything he needed to run his new company in one convenient location. But instead of turning to a big box store or a mall, he found what he needed right in downtown Grinnell. “There was never any doubt in my mind that I would be doing business in G r i n n e l l ,” Schultz said. “I can get p e r s o n a l service that makes a real difference and support the very same businesses who support me.” Schultz’s first stop was at the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce office to become a member of the Chamber. While Schultz is a former Chamber staffer, he said his decision to become a member is based on more than employee loyalty. “I assigned a dollar and time value to nearly every benefit the Chamber offers, and it literally saves me thousands of dollars a year in marketing costs alone.” Schultz noted. “And a strong Chamber helps Grinnell continue to grow, which is how my business will grow. It was a no-brainer.” Schultz took his logo and stationery designs to Total Choice Shipping and Printing just a few steps away from the Chamber office and within a few days had everything he needed to communicate with his clients. “I’m in the industry so I’m incredibly picky about the quality of my materials,” Schultz said. “Being able to look the owner right in the eye and be assured they’ll take care of me is a big deal. I don’t get that if I deal with someone outside the community.” S c h u l t z continued his d o w n t o w n stroll to Awards Unlimited, where he worked with owner Stephanie Hoopes to find the perfect company shirts. “I can’t tell you how thrilled I am with the quality of the embroidered shirts I got from them,” he said. “I didn’t just have to rely on catalogs or guess about something online - Stephanie walked me through material choices, the size of embroidery and the fit until I had exactly what I wanted.” Schultz said he has more plans to do business locally in the � Private Skilled Rehab Rooms with on suite bath � The Spaulding Room for coffee, visiting, or relaxing � Main Street Café � Free Wireless Internet and Bistro � Affordable, no increased prices for higher level of care GREAT CARE CENTERED AROUND YOU! future, from legal needs when he incorporates his business to accounting to sourcing local companies to produce marketing materials. “I think it’s important that local businesses and Chamber businesses in particular hold each other accountable,” Schultz said. “I know that a dollar I spend within the Chamber will eventually find its way back to me after doing a lot of good here in town. Those dollars we spend elsewhere - what are the odds they will come back?” Contact Bryan: www.oppthumbs.com bryan@oppthumbs.com 641-840-2622 Skilled Rehab 24 Hour Nursing Care Progressive Therapy NEWLY REMODELED Information and photo tour at www.grinnellhealthcare.com Grinnell Health Care Center, 415 6 th Avenue, Grinnell, Iowa For information contact the Community Liaison at 515-745-0476 www.getintogrinnell.com I GET INTO GRINNELL Page 13
Page 1 and 2: Fall 2012 I Grinnell, Jewel of the
Page 3 and 4: Ron Lowry’s flying career began l
Page 5 and 6: FREE & CHEAP Things To Do In Grinne
Page 7 and 8: Dining: Restaurant Contest Carly Gr
Page 9 and 10: Email John: ineedthedoordoctor@gmai
Page 11: Bailey’s Funny Farm 415 Sixth Ave
Page 15: Community Event Calendar Visit www.

The Hub - Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce

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