Ambassador Visits September 2025

Waverly, IA - The Waverly Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors recently presented four existing businesses with Progress Awards.

The Ambassadors met with Executive Director Jill Krall of Waverly-Shell Rock United Way located at 109 4th St. SW to celebrate the unveiling of the Little Free Pantry. Originally introduced by the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation in 2019, the Little Free Pantry program provides children and families with 24/7 access to emergency food resources, designed to supplement existing hunger relief efforts and offer immediate assistance during short-term, urgent situations. The Little Free Pantry is proudly sponsored by Dale Howard Auto Center of Waverly and will be frequently stocked and cared for by the Waverly-Shell Rock Area United Way. Items of highest priority will include winter clothing, personal care products, nonperishable foods, and other essentials for infants, toddlers, and children-all aimed at addressing critical needs for local families. Through this project, W-SR United Way and the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation are ensuring that local families in need have an accessible, around-the-clock resource, while also celebrating the values of compassion, creativity, and community strength. To learn more about W-SR United Way or the resources they offer, visit www.wsrunitedway.org.

The Ambassadors met with Jennifer Jones and board members of the Waverly-Shell Rock Community Schools Foundation to celebrate the appointment of Jennifer Jones as Executive Director in early 2025. The Foundation plays a vital role in supporting educational excellence by providing resources, scholarships, and opportunities that enrich the learning experience for W-SR students. With Jennifer's leadership, the Foundation is poised to continue building strong partnerships, fostering community engagement, and advancing initiatives that benefit students, teachers and families throughout the district. Her vision and dedication will ensure the Foundation remains a driving force in supporting academic success and inspiring future generations. To learn more about the W-SR Community Schools Foundation, visit www.wsr.k12.ia.us/page/about-uss.

The Ambassadors met with owners Chris and Joy Carney of Z's Pizza & Diner to celebrate Z's placing second in the recent Main Street Iowa Open 4 Business Competition. This statewide contest highlights the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses across Iowa, and Z's Pizza & Diner stood out for their commitment to delivering delicious food in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Along with this honor, Z's Pizza & Diner received grant funding to support future growth, which they plan to use toward enhancing their space and expanding services for their customers. Their achievement not only reflects the hard work and vision of the Z's Pizza team but also brings pride to the Waverly community, showcasing the strength and potential of local small businesses on a statewide stage. Through this recognition, Z's Pizza & Diner continues to demonstrate the values of quality, hospitality, and community connection that make them a local favorite. To learn more about Z's Pizza & Diner or to place an order, visit www.zswaverly.com.

The Ambassadors met with Pastor Madison Metcalf, director of Crosspoint School of Ministry, to celebrate Crosspoint Church 's new 2-year discipleship program. The Crosspoint School of Ministry program is designed to help individuals grow deeper in their faith, develop practical ministry skills, and prepare for a lifetime of service in both church and community. In addition to biblical teaching, hands-on ministry opportunities, and mentorship, students enrolled in the Crosspoint School of Ministry can also earn college credit, making it a unique opportunity to combine spiritual growth with academic advancement. Rooted in Crosspoint's mission to make disciples who make disciples, the program emphasizes spiritual development, leadership training, and real-world ministry experience. By offering this discipleship pathway, Crosspoint Church is investing in the next generation of leaders who will carry forward values of faith, service, and community impact. To learn more about the Crosspoint School of Ministry, visit www.crosspointwaverly.com.

The Waverly Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors Program serves as a public relations arm of the Waverly Chamber by welcoming new businesses, recognizing business expansion efforts, and recruiting new members to the organization.

For more information, please contact the Waverly Chamber of Commerce at (319) 352-4526 or [email protected].