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History

The Chariton Chamber and Development Corporation is as complex and as strong as an oak tree.  It has a group of branches which reach out in support of Chariton and Lucas County.  It has a myriad of associated organizations which grow under the shade of the Chamber's canopy - all for the betterment of our community.

The roots of the Chariton Chamber's success stem from the strength and resiliency of area retail business owners and industry leaders.  Leadership from within the Chamber comes from Ruth Comer, Executive Director, and her staff of Janet Telleen, Office Coordinator, and Irene Stait, RSVP volunteer.

The Chamber has a history as rich and deep as an oak's roots grow.  It was a strong and vital part of the local economic scene for years, but began to wither in the late 1970's and finally became dormant, a victim of the farm crisis of the 1980's.

New life breezed into the Chamber in 1988 when civic leaders spearheaded a drive to revitalize Chariton and Lucas's economy.   The Chamber, as it now exists, has branched into four important areas - economic development, community betterment, retail enhancement and tourism.  Another vital organization associated with the Chamber is the Chariton Chamber and Development Charitable Foundation.

Every day Chamber members give of their time, talents and resources to improve the quality of life in our community.  They do it not just because it may be good for their businesses but because it gives them a warm feeling to give something back.  They do it because they believe in our future and are not in it for any personal gain.  Together, we are building a community bridge for the future.

Every community in Iowa is competing for new business and industry.  Only those who are prepared, quick to react, innovative and blessed with unselfish volunteers will succeed in attracting these businesses.  Things just don't happen overnight.  They take planning, planning and more planning by dedicated and committed individuals.  Challenges and opportunities have never defeated us.  We have proven we are a community that pulls together to accomplish the seemingly impossible.  And more importantly, the Chamber is a solid foundation of businesses, organizations and individuals who are always leading us forward and upward.

Your Chamber is doing what most people think just happens.  Our accomplishments are great but there are many opportunities ahead of us.