Volunteer Opportunities
Are you looking for a great way to get involved in your community? Commerce Lexington Inc. offers wonderful opportunities for you or your company to get involved and serve on various planning committees or assist with the formation of the organization’s public policy statements. Commerce Lexington’s success depends on the many volunteers that participate in the variety of events, programs, and services that are presented each year – from our Ambassador Program to the Winner’s Circle resource development program. Volunteers like you are absolutely necessary for Commerce Lexington and the community to achieve its long-term goals. All of Commerce Lexington’s volunteer choices not only provide you with great networking opportunities, but also your company with wonderful visibility within the community.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW A LIST OF COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. COMMITTEES
CLICK HERE TO VIEW A LIST OF COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. COMMITTEES
Ambassador Spotlight (November 2019):
Mark Wiemer, WesBanco Bank
Mark Wiemer is the AVP, Banking Center Manager at WesBanco Bank’s Sir Barton location. Wiemer said, “In this capacity, I get to work with both consumers and businesses to help them reach their financial goals. WesBanco is the perfect size bank, big enough to offer cutting edge technology and competitive banking solutions, yet still providing a local bank experience.”
“As a long-time Ambassador, it has been and continues to be such a pleasure to represent Commerce Lexington Inc. and connect with awesome CLX member businesses,” said Wiemer. “I am passionate about Commerce Lexington and spreading the good news about what it has to offer our community.”
“Having lived in several cities over the years, I cannot imagine living any place other than Lexington. I have called it home for over 25 years. There is a definite cool vibe about Lexington, with a true entrepreneurial spirit. We are the gem that others are now discovering.”
Mark said he really enjoys attending the many ribbon cuttings and grand openings, because he gets to see the businesses “grow and flourish over the years. There are so many terrific programs and opportunities that CLX offers, from the @330 Series to Business Links, the Annual Dinner and so on. We are blessed to have Commerce Lexington Inc. representing our business community."
Contact Mark Wiemer at WesBanco Bank at (859) 244-7211.
Mark Wiemer, WesBanco Bank
Mark Wiemer is the AVP, Banking Center Manager at WesBanco Bank’s Sir Barton location. Wiemer said, “In this capacity, I get to work with both consumers and businesses to help them reach their financial goals. WesBanco is the perfect size bank, big enough to offer cutting edge technology and competitive banking solutions, yet still providing a local bank experience.”
“As a long-time Ambassador, it has been and continues to be such a pleasure to represent Commerce Lexington Inc. and connect with awesome CLX member businesses,” said Wiemer. “I am passionate about Commerce Lexington and spreading the good news about what it has to offer our community.”
“Having lived in several cities over the years, I cannot imagine living any place other than Lexington. I have called it home for over 25 years. There is a definite cool vibe about Lexington, with a true entrepreneurial spirit. We are the gem that others are now discovering.”
Mark said he really enjoys attending the many ribbon cuttings and grand openings, because he gets to see the businesses “grow and flourish over the years. There are so many terrific programs and opportunities that CLX offers, from the @330 Series to Business Links, the Annual Dinner and so on. We are blessed to have Commerce Lexington Inc. representing our business community."
Contact Mark Wiemer at WesBanco Bank at (859) 244-7211.
Ambassador Spotlight (October 2019):
Alex Bell, TravelHost of the Bluegrass
A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Alex Bell has lived in Lexington for about five years and is currently the general manager of TravelHost of the Bluegrass, the number one tourism publication in the region. She said, “I love that I get to help business owners and see their business grow, along with sharing with visitors the things, places and people that make the Bluegrass great! It has been an amazing opportunity, and I truly love sharing with people how amazing Lexington is."
Alex actually visited Lexington when she was thirteen years old as a tourist, because she grew up riding horses and wanted to come visit Kentucky's horse farms. She said, “The Bluegrass pulled me in when I was young, and I always new I would be back. I moved here several years after college, and one of my first jobs was working on a local horse farm.”
She said that her favorite events to attend include the New Member Luncheons and the SPOTLIGHT Series. "The New Member Luncheons are some of my favorite events to go to, because I am able to meet new business owners in the community and also share how Commerce Lexington has impacted our business for the good. Making those personal connections is so important, and I am able to do that at those lunches. I also enjoy attending the Spotlight Series events, because they are always informative and provide a great way to stay updated with events and issues going on in our community."
“I have enjoyed seeing our community grow, meeting business owners and being a resource to those around me,” added Alex. “Through the ambassador program, I have made some amazing connections and feel that I have grown as a leader and business woman as well. It's great to surround yourself with people who are successful and want to see you succeed as well.”
Contact Alex Bell at TravelHost of the Bluegrass at (205) 382-2190.
Alex Bell, TravelHost of the Bluegrass
A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Alex Bell has lived in Lexington for about five years and is currently the general manager of TravelHost of the Bluegrass, the number one tourism publication in the region. She said, “I love that I get to help business owners and see their business grow, along with sharing with visitors the things, places and people that make the Bluegrass great! It has been an amazing opportunity, and I truly love sharing with people how amazing Lexington is."
Alex actually visited Lexington when she was thirteen years old as a tourist, because she grew up riding horses and wanted to come visit Kentucky's horse farms. She said, “The Bluegrass pulled me in when I was young, and I always new I would be back. I moved here several years after college, and one of my first jobs was working on a local horse farm.”
She said that her favorite events to attend include the New Member Luncheons and the SPOTLIGHT Series. "The New Member Luncheons are some of my favorite events to go to, because I am able to meet new business owners in the community and also share how Commerce Lexington has impacted our business for the good. Making those personal connections is so important, and I am able to do that at those lunches. I also enjoy attending the Spotlight Series events, because they are always informative and provide a great way to stay updated with events and issues going on in our community."
“I have enjoyed seeing our community grow, meeting business owners and being a resource to those around me,” added Alex. “Through the ambassador program, I have made some amazing connections and feel that I have grown as a leader and business woman as well. It's great to surround yourself with people who are successful and want to see you succeed as well.”
Contact Alex Bell at TravelHost of the Bluegrass at (205) 382-2190.
Ambassador Spotlight (September 2019):
Brooke Wheatley, WLEX-TV
A native of Florence, Kentucky, Brooke Wheatley started working at WLEX-TV in July 2010 after graduating from the University of Kentucky. She said she was attracted to the media industry’s fast-paced and exciting environment. "I was interested in local media, specifically because of the brand trust in the community and the opportunity to represent such a strong local brand in the Lexington area excited me."
As an account executive at WLEX-TV, Brooke works with clients as a strategic business partner, offering a variety of advertising, marketing and audience sales solutions. She said, “I enjoy working with several business leaders here in the Lexington area and helping them deliver their strategic message to generate measurable results.”
She said, “Serving as an Ambassador for Commerce Lexington gives me the opportunity to connect with local business leaders and give them information about all of the wonderful resources Commerce Lexington has to offer.”
Brooke said, “It’s important to me to stay connected with current and upcoming leaders and to be actively involved with community/business events, because I believe we can all help make our community stronger if we have the connections and relationships established to work together.”
"What I love most about the Lexington/Bluegrass area is the wide variety of local businesses and signature events like Keeneland, Kentucky football and basketball and the booming Bourbon industry," she added. "There are so many amazing events and experiences to discover here in Central Kentucky, and new ones coming everyday!"
Contact Brooke Wheatley at (859) 259-1818 or [email protected].
Brooke Wheatley, WLEX-TV
A native of Florence, Kentucky, Brooke Wheatley started working at WLEX-TV in July 2010 after graduating from the University of Kentucky. She said she was attracted to the media industry’s fast-paced and exciting environment. "I was interested in local media, specifically because of the brand trust in the community and the opportunity to represent such a strong local brand in the Lexington area excited me."
As an account executive at WLEX-TV, Brooke works with clients as a strategic business partner, offering a variety of advertising, marketing and audience sales solutions. She said, “I enjoy working with several business leaders here in the Lexington area and helping them deliver their strategic message to generate measurable results.”
She said, “Serving as an Ambassador for Commerce Lexington gives me the opportunity to connect with local business leaders and give them information about all of the wonderful resources Commerce Lexington has to offer.”
Brooke said, “It’s important to me to stay connected with current and upcoming leaders and to be actively involved with community/business events, because I believe we can all help make our community stronger if we have the connections and relationships established to work together.”
"What I love most about the Lexington/Bluegrass area is the wide variety of local businesses and signature events like Keeneland, Kentucky football and basketball and the booming Bourbon industry," she added. "There are so many amazing events and experiences to discover here in Central Kentucky, and new ones coming everyday!"
Contact Brooke Wheatley at (859) 259-1818 or [email protected].
Ambassador Spotlight (August 2019):
Leslie Moore, Precision Staffing
Leslie Moore serves as business development manager for Precision Staffing, Inc. - a staffing and recruiting agency serving the Bluegrass for nearly 40 years. Leslie works in concert with her clients for effective outcomes, solving workforce challenges by creatively applying her expertise in human resources, recruiting, and psychology.
Originally from Bowling Green, Leslie moved to Lexington in 2003 to attend the University of Kentucky. She said, “I love that Lexington has a rich and beautiful history – yet it continues to impress me by evolving to become a ‘destination city’ with a burgeoning food, arts, and tourism scene. Plus BOURBON!”
“Serving as an Ambassador for Commerce Lexington offers me an opportunity to stay connected to our growing and robust community,” said Moore. “Whether it’s a new member or a long-time member I am connecting with, I think everyone appreciates the outreach. I am proud to represent Commerce Lexington.
When asked about her favorite CLX events, Leslie, said, “The Business Links offer great networking potential, while the Public Policy Luncheon Series keeps me informed of topics that influence business in our community."
Contact Leslie Moore at (859) 272-2030, extension 236.
Leslie Moore, Precision Staffing
Leslie Moore serves as business development manager for Precision Staffing, Inc. - a staffing and recruiting agency serving the Bluegrass for nearly 40 years. Leslie works in concert with her clients for effective outcomes, solving workforce challenges by creatively applying her expertise in human resources, recruiting, and psychology.
Originally from Bowling Green, Leslie moved to Lexington in 2003 to attend the University of Kentucky. She said, “I love that Lexington has a rich and beautiful history – yet it continues to impress me by evolving to become a ‘destination city’ with a burgeoning food, arts, and tourism scene. Plus BOURBON!”
“Serving as an Ambassador for Commerce Lexington offers me an opportunity to stay connected to our growing and robust community,” said Moore. “Whether it’s a new member or a long-time member I am connecting with, I think everyone appreciates the outreach. I am proud to represent Commerce Lexington.
When asked about her favorite CLX events, Leslie, said, “The Business Links offer great networking potential, while the Public Policy Luncheon Series keeps me informed of topics that influence business in our community."
Contact Leslie Moore at (859) 272-2030, extension 236.
Ambassador Spotlight (July 2019):
Susie Patrick, Brand Advertising Group
A native of Louisville, and like many others, Susie Patrick came to Lexington for college and never went back home! (Ask her parents, literally, almost never!). She said, "I fell in love with Lexington when I came to UK for cheerleading camp while in high school. Of the different universities we visited, UK was by far my favorite. Lexington is a kinder, gentler community that offers just enough city life to satisfy most anyone."
After 15 years on the media-selling side of advertising, she made the switch to media buyer at Brand Advertising Group in May 2018. As a full-service advertising agency, Brand Advertising Group (BAG) includes a variety of different platforms of advertising for their clients ranging from print, outdoor, radio, TV, social media, digital advertising, event planning and more.
Susie and the team at BAG work to identify the most effective methods of advertising that enable each of their clients to reach their target audiences. She also leverages her knowledge of media sales to find rates, sponsorship opportunities, or other campaign ideas that are beneficial to clients.
“Serving as an Ambassador for Commerce Lexington Inc. enables us to connect with the many businesses that make Central Kentucky unique,” said Susie. “It’s also a great way to keep a finger on the economic pulse of Lexington.”
Contact Susie Patrick at BAG at (859) 619-4254.
Susie Patrick, Brand Advertising Group
A native of Louisville, and like many others, Susie Patrick came to Lexington for college and never went back home! (Ask her parents, literally, almost never!). She said, "I fell in love with Lexington when I came to UK for cheerleading camp while in high school. Of the different universities we visited, UK was by far my favorite. Lexington is a kinder, gentler community that offers just enough city life to satisfy most anyone."
After 15 years on the media-selling side of advertising, she made the switch to media buyer at Brand Advertising Group in May 2018. As a full-service advertising agency, Brand Advertising Group (BAG) includes a variety of different platforms of advertising for their clients ranging from print, outdoor, radio, TV, social media, digital advertising, event planning and more.
Susie and the team at BAG work to identify the most effective methods of advertising that enable each of their clients to reach their target audiences. She also leverages her knowledge of media sales to find rates, sponsorship opportunities, or other campaign ideas that are beneficial to clients.
“Serving as an Ambassador for Commerce Lexington Inc. enables us to connect with the many businesses that make Central Kentucky unique,” said Susie. “It’s also a great way to keep a finger on the economic pulse of Lexington.”
Contact Susie Patrick at BAG at (859) 619-4254.
Ambassador Spotlight (June 2019):
Cheryl Eadens, Bluegrass Office Systems
A native of LA (Louisville Area), Cheryl Eadens moved to Lexington in 1982 to attend college and join the Big Blue Nation. Cheryl joined Bluegrass Office Systems in October 2016. A locally-owned and operated company since 1981, Cheryl was very impressed with Bluegrass Office Systems’ Canon line of products. She added, “Having been in the industry for 15 years, I was very familiar with BOS, and after meeting with owner Bill Demarcus and seeing the corporate culture, I knew it would be an awesome fit.”
Cheryl consults with companies to improve their office efficiency with an elite line of Canon Multi-Functional Devices, which includes copiers, printers, scanners, wide-format and integrated systems software.
“I enjoy representing Commerce Lexington as an Ambassador and meeting with members and potential members to help them realize the many benefits of Commerce Lexington membership,” Cheryl added. “My favorite events are the Business Links, as I enjoy the wide array of folks I meet, the networking opportunities, and the various venues at which they are hosted.”
Contact Cheryl Eadens at Bluegrass Office Systems at (859) 806-3708.
Cheryl Eadens, Bluegrass Office Systems
A native of LA (Louisville Area), Cheryl Eadens moved to Lexington in 1982 to attend college and join the Big Blue Nation. Cheryl joined Bluegrass Office Systems in October 2016. A locally-owned and operated company since 1981, Cheryl was very impressed with Bluegrass Office Systems’ Canon line of products. She added, “Having been in the industry for 15 years, I was very familiar with BOS, and after meeting with owner Bill Demarcus and seeing the corporate culture, I knew it would be an awesome fit.”
Cheryl consults with companies to improve their office efficiency with an elite line of Canon Multi-Functional Devices, which includes copiers, printers, scanners, wide-format and integrated systems software.
“I enjoy representing Commerce Lexington as an Ambassador and meeting with members and potential members to help them realize the many benefits of Commerce Lexington membership,” Cheryl added. “My favorite events are the Business Links, as I enjoy the wide array of folks I meet, the networking opportunities, and the various venues at which they are hosted.”
Contact Cheryl Eadens at Bluegrass Office Systems at (859) 806-3708.
Ambassador Spotlight (May 2019):
Laura Henry, Energy Insurance
Energy Insurance has been around since the 1980’s, providing all types of insurance, including commercial, personal, employee benefits and bonds.
Laura Henry began working at Energy Insurance in January 2014. She said, “I help companies protect their assets, whether it's their people, buildings, or operations. I sell a promise, and I try to craft the best possible insurance program for each client. I tell my clients I am their Chief Worry Officer, because I worry about their coverages, so they don’t have to.”
Laura said, “I love being an Ambassador for the same reason I love my job - being able to build relationships and meet new people. The opportunity to network with fellow Ambassadors, Commerce Lexington staff, and members is really awesome! I enjoy talking to new members, hearing how they appreciate the support Commerce Lexington provides and all the benefits they receive.”
Laura added, "I love Lexington because there is so much to do, the people are friendly and the landscape is beautiful. I enjoy meeting new people, and helping to make the community the best possible place for my family, friends and neighbors. I feel a responsibility to help with that mission."
Laura said she really enjoys the Commerce Lexington Inc. Business Links, Annual Dinner, Public Policy Luncheon Series, and the Business on the Green golf event.
Contact Laura Henry at (859) 543-3019, and find out more on-line at www.energyinsuranceagency.com.
Laura Henry, Energy Insurance
Energy Insurance has been around since the 1980’s, providing all types of insurance, including commercial, personal, employee benefits and bonds.
Laura Henry began working at Energy Insurance in January 2014. She said, “I help companies protect their assets, whether it's their people, buildings, or operations. I sell a promise, and I try to craft the best possible insurance program for each client. I tell my clients I am their Chief Worry Officer, because I worry about their coverages, so they don’t have to.”
Laura said, “I love being an Ambassador for the same reason I love my job - being able to build relationships and meet new people. The opportunity to network with fellow Ambassadors, Commerce Lexington staff, and members is really awesome! I enjoy talking to new members, hearing how they appreciate the support Commerce Lexington provides and all the benefits they receive.”
Laura added, "I love Lexington because there is so much to do, the people are friendly and the landscape is beautiful. I enjoy meeting new people, and helping to make the community the best possible place for my family, friends and neighbors. I feel a responsibility to help with that mission."
Laura said she really enjoys the Commerce Lexington Inc. Business Links, Annual Dinner, Public Policy Luncheon Series, and the Business on the Green golf event.
Contact Laura Henry at (859) 543-3019, and find out more on-line at www.energyinsuranceagency.com.
Ambassador Spotlight (March 2019):
Stephanie Bell, Yudofsky Fashion
Stephanie Bell is now in her second stint as a Commerce Lexington Inc. Ambassador. She previously served on the committee about ten years ago, and said, “I really wanted to do it again. It’s a great way to network and get exposure within the community. It’s also really fun!”
Stephanie said, “I think that being involved with Commerce Lexington gives me the ability to be make a difference in the community. It’s a great way to network and be involved with the decision makers in Lexington.”
Yudofsky has been in business in Louisville since the 1920’s and recently opened in Lexington at The Summit. Stephanie grew up going to the Louisville store with her mother, so she was very familiar with the brand. She also owns a company called Fancy Derby Hats, and Yudofsky Fashion invited her to do a trunk show for Easter. It was such a great partnership, Stephanie was invited to work with them and also keep her hats in the store. She said, “I’ve always loved fashion, and this gives me the ability to have exposure for my hats, be associated with a great company, and have fun with fashion. I’m a fashionista at heart!”
Some of her favorite Commerce Lexington events include the Public Policy Luncheon Series, the annual international trips, and the @330 Series. Stephanie said, "I have been on four of the international trips. I really enjoy traveling with Commerce Lexington, and I’ve made a lot of close friends over the years from the trips. I also enjoy the Public Policy Luncheons. Learning about issues that are important to Lexington is not only interesting but also important to form an educated opinion. The @330 professional development events provide great opportunities for small businesses to learn about things like social media, etc. and they are free!"
Contact Stephanie Bell at (859) 368-0622 or by e-mail HERE.
Stephanie Bell, Yudofsky Fashion
Stephanie Bell is now in her second stint as a Commerce Lexington Inc. Ambassador. She previously served on the committee about ten years ago, and said, “I really wanted to do it again. It’s a great way to network and get exposure within the community. It’s also really fun!”
Stephanie said, “I think that being involved with Commerce Lexington gives me the ability to be make a difference in the community. It’s a great way to network and be involved with the decision makers in Lexington.”
Yudofsky has been in business in Louisville since the 1920’s and recently opened in Lexington at The Summit. Stephanie grew up going to the Louisville store with her mother, so she was very familiar with the brand. She also owns a company called Fancy Derby Hats, and Yudofsky Fashion invited her to do a trunk show for Easter. It was such a great partnership, Stephanie was invited to work with them and also keep her hats in the store. She said, “I’ve always loved fashion, and this gives me the ability to have exposure for my hats, be associated with a great company, and have fun with fashion. I’m a fashionista at heart!”
Some of her favorite Commerce Lexington events include the Public Policy Luncheon Series, the annual international trips, and the @330 Series. Stephanie said, "I have been on four of the international trips. I really enjoy traveling with Commerce Lexington, and I’ve made a lot of close friends over the years from the trips. I also enjoy the Public Policy Luncheons. Learning about issues that are important to Lexington is not only interesting but also important to form an educated opinion. The @330 professional development events provide great opportunities for small businesses to learn about things like social media, etc. and they are free!"
Contact Stephanie Bell at (859) 368-0622 or by e-mail HERE.
Ambassador Spotlight (February 2019):
Benjamin Coates, Traditional Bank
A native of Lexington, Ben Coates began working at Traditional Bank about one year ago upon his graduation from Centre College. While in college, he enjoyed his three internships in the commercial banking industry, but he wanted a position that would get him away from his desk. After meeting with Bill Alverson and Dan Mason, he was offered a position developing business in the commercial lending department at Traditional Bank.
“My role at the bank is to build relationships. Banking isn’t transactional, but a process of developing trust over time. My responsibility is to be out in the community interacting with individuals who want to grow their businesses.”
He said, “As a Commerce Lexington Ambassador, I enjoy attending ribbon cuttings and meeting new members. Ribbon cuttings are a great way to promote all the emerging businesses in the community. I am excited to be able to help members of the take full advantage of the events and resources of Commerce Lexington."
"Commerce Lexington is a resource for businesses in the community," said Coates. "It is important for members of the chamber to be updated on events and benefits. Commerce Lexington also allows young professionals to meet influential people in our community."
“What I enjoy most about Lexington and the Bluegrass region is University of Kentucky sports, Thoroughbred horse racing, and the unmatched hospitality of the people and establishments here,” said Coates.
Contact Ben Coates at Traditional Bank at [email protected].
Benjamin Coates, Traditional Bank
A native of Lexington, Ben Coates began working at Traditional Bank about one year ago upon his graduation from Centre College. While in college, he enjoyed his three internships in the commercial banking industry, but he wanted a position that would get him away from his desk. After meeting with Bill Alverson and Dan Mason, he was offered a position developing business in the commercial lending department at Traditional Bank.
“My role at the bank is to build relationships. Banking isn’t transactional, but a process of developing trust over time. My responsibility is to be out in the community interacting with individuals who want to grow their businesses.”
He said, “As a Commerce Lexington Ambassador, I enjoy attending ribbon cuttings and meeting new members. Ribbon cuttings are a great way to promote all the emerging businesses in the community. I am excited to be able to help members of the take full advantage of the events and resources of Commerce Lexington."
"Commerce Lexington is a resource for businesses in the community," said Coates. "It is important for members of the chamber to be updated on events and benefits. Commerce Lexington also allows young professionals to meet influential people in our community."
“What I enjoy most about Lexington and the Bluegrass region is University of Kentucky sports, Thoroughbred horse racing, and the unmatched hospitality of the people and establishments here,” said Coates.
Contact Ben Coates at Traditional Bank at [email protected].
