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Great Bend Chamber nears $1 million goal in Elevate GBK Campaign to drive economic growth
$801,000 raised to date; Chamber invites final investors to join 30+ local supporters
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The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce announced it has raised $801,000 toward its $1 million goal in the Elevate GBK Beyond Today Capital Campaign — a bold five-year initiative launched in February 2025 to invest in long-term economic vitality, workforce development, and business retention in the Great Bend region.

With more than 30 businesses and individuals already pledging their support, Chamber leaders are now encouraging others to join the campaign as it enters the final stretch.

“This campaign is more than a fundraiser — it’s our community’s collective belief in what we can achieve when we invest together,” said Rob Bauer (Bauer Pike Law), Board Chair of the Great Bend Chamber. “It’s about securing a sustainable, thriving future for Great Bend.”

The Elevate GBK campaign supports five strategic priorities identified through more than 60 stakeholder interviews and the involvement of over 100 Chamber volunteers: Workforce Development; Business and People Retention; Membership Development and Support; Business and Community Marketing; Business Advocacy.

Chamber President and CEO Megan Barfield emphasized that every contribution matters — regardless of size.

“It truly takes all of us — small and large — to create meaningful momentum. Whether it’s a five-figure pledge or a grassroots investment, every dollar builds a stronger Great Bend,” said Barfield. “We’re incredibly thankful to the investors, volunteers, and honorary co-chairs who’ve helped bring us this far.”

Serving as honorary co-chairs for the campaign are Rob and Andrea Bauer, Barry and Monica Bowers, Mark and Melanie Calcara, Sheryl Cheely, Mike and Linda Johnson, Mark and Leslie Mingenback, Katherine Opie, Brad and Sarah Shirer, Dr. Perry and Krista Smith, and Terry and MelEesa Stueder.

The campaign’s Feb. 6 public launch event drew over 80 attendees and featured a keynote address from Jeremy Rusco, Great Bend native and founder of Dynamic Discs, who spoke about the power of community investment and local leadership.

The Chamber has also released a short testimonial video featuring local investors sharing why they believe in the campaign’s mission: https://youtu.be/IkTPt8oiXUs?si=_-575Ya648YmHJOK

Business leaders or individuals interested in supporting the campaign or learning more can visit www.greatbend.org/elevategbk or schedule a one-on-one conversation with Chamber President Megan Barfield at mbarfield@greatbend.org.