Why nonprofits belong at the Chamber

The Quad Cities has a thriving nonprofit community, and arguably, we are a generous region. But how does the Chamber fit into that framework? And why should a nonprofit be a member?

“Being part of a chamber allows nonprofits and businesses to work together toward shared goals,” said Lysa Hegland, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of the Heartland. “Nonprofits bring community insight and mission-driven impact, while businesses bring expertise, mentorship and resources. When those two worlds connect through the QC Chamber, the entire community benefits.”

“Our nonprofit members are such a valuable part of the Chamber,” said Peter Tokar III, President & CEO of the Chamber. “Membership gives them greater visibility to expand their reach, build strong partnerships with community leaders and businesses and gain the resources they need to thrive.”

Through Chamber events and introductions, nonprofits can also connect with potential sponsors, identify companies interested in volunteer opportunities and potentially recruit new board members. These relationships often grow into long-term partnerships that help sustain their programs and services.

Jasmine Kline, Development Director at the Quad City Animal Welfare Center, says the Center recently joined and has already seen the benefits of membership. “We’ve been able to connect with local businesses to partner up and create new events. We’ve also received event sponsorship, new volunteers and even had a few people interested in adopting or fostering animals. In April, we will be part of the Chamber’s Quad Cities Business Showcase: Hob Nosh ’26. We cannot wait to see what else may come.”

“The Chamber creates a space where collaboration happens naturally,” added Hegland. “Bringing together leaders from businesses, nonprofits, education and local government to focus on strengthening the community is incredibly valuable. The challenges and opportunities our communities face - workforce readiness, economic growth and financial literacy - are bigger than any one organization. The Chamber helps create partnerships that turn ideas into real impact.”

Hegland said that for organizations like hers that work with young people, the relationships built allow JA to bring real-world experience into their experiential programs. “When business professionals step into classrooms as volunteers to share their knowledge with students, it helps young people see what their futures can look like – and helps businesses invest in the next generation of talent,” she said.

Vera French Community Mental Health Center, a well-known nonprofit in the Quad Cities, is a long-time Chamber member.

CEO Rich Whitaker says over the years they have made many friends and have been connected with business leaders who have strengthened Vera French and boosted their standing in the business community.

“Our membership provides Vera French with affordable ways to stay in the know regarding challenges and opportunities in the business sector. Our many building and expansion projects over the years have been celebrated with Chamber members and community members through the Chamber’s highly visible and organized ribbon cutting ceremonies.”

Whitaker said Vera French also values the legislative forums hosted by the Chamber.

“We’ve enjoyed our visits to the Iowa State Capitol with the Chamber, as it’s an opportunity for important legislative advocacy on issues and policies related to the treatment of mental health and substance use disorders. The Chamber, on so many occasions, has opened the door for Vera French leaders to connect with legislators in meaningful exchanges that allow us to share the perspective of our clients and improve legislators’ understanding of the issues they face," he said.

At its core, Chamber membership gives nonprofits another way to do what they already do best: Serve the community.  

In a region known for its generosity, the connections forged by the Chamber really do make a difference, strengthening organizations, supporting their missions and ultimately creating a greater impact across the Quad Cities.