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Community Engagement Committee
Community Engagement Committee - Linking Members and Community Through Action
Connecting with the communities we serve
The Community Engagement Committee connects Chamber members with the Kirkwood–Des Peres Area community through service projects, local events, and partnerships that strengthen relationships and community involvement.
Five Communities - One shared Vision
At the Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce, we serve five local communities. Kirkwood, Des Peres, Glendale, Oakland, and Warson Woods. However, our members reach well beyond.
We envision A connected community where Chamber members show up, serve, and build lasting relationships that make our communities stronger.
Meet your Community Engagement Committee Leaders
Ashley Schmitz - Chair
Co-Owner of Terra Nova Builds
Nikki Weddle - Co-Chair
Realtor with the Nations Network
Community Engagement Annual Events
Spring Clean Recycling & Donation Drive
2026 marks our fifth annual event. Over the last five years we have helped thousands of community members recycle and donate tons of items that would typically end up in landfills.
This event is held at St. Louis Community College Meramec, one of our Chamber Members, who are also committed to our environment.
Gather your electronics, used paint, old household items, children's items, and non-perishable food goods and join us this year to make a difference!
Looking to volunteer? Simply click below and we would be happy to work beside you during this amazing event!
Cars & Guitars (City of Kirkwood)
The Community Engagement Committee hosts a Chamber booth at Kirkwood’s Cars & Guitars event. Chamber members are invited to sign up for time slots to hand out swag and promote their businesses at no cost, creating high visibility and easy community engagement.
School Supply Drive
A seasonal supply drive supporting local school districts during the back-to-school period. Chamber members contribute essential school supplies, helping students and educators while strengthening connections between businesses and local schools. Encourage high traffic business to participate as donation drop off site and promote to their customers.
Green Tree Festival Wine Booth (Kirkwood)
The committee hosts the wine booth during the Green Tree Festival’s Friday evening festivities. Chamber members volunteer to serve wine, connect with attendees, and promote their businesses in a lively, community-centered setting.
Community Festival Booths
Similar to Cars & Guitars, the committee coordinates Chamber booth participation at additional local city events. Members volunteer in scheduled time slots to engage residents, distribute materials, and represent their businesses within neighboring communities.
Ready to be a Community Champion? Join the Community Engagement Committee!
Whether you care about service, local events, partnerships, or community support, there is a place for you here. By joining the Community Engagement Committee, you can:
• Build real relationships with Chamber members and community partners
• Get involved in projects that support Kirkwood and Des Peres
• Help plan events that bring people together
• Strengthen the connection between local businesses and the community
• Be a visible leader who shows up and gives back
Let’s Strengthen Our Community Together
We are looking for members who care about people, place, and participation. Your ideas matter. Your time matters. Your presence makes a difference. When members engage with the community, everyone benefits.
Interested in joining the Community Engagement Committee?
Contact us today and get involved.
Email The Chamber here - TheChamber@TheChamber.us - to learn more about joining the Committee.
Additional Community Engagement Events
Food Drive at Chamber Meetings:
A seasonal food drive held during Chamber meetings to support local food pantries. Members are encouraged to bring donations, providing a simple and meaningful way to give back during the holiday season.
Student–Industry Connection Event:
A new event in development designed to connect students with local businesses and industries. This initiative introduces career paths, encourages mentorship, and strengthens long-term relationships between education and the business community.