ImpactCR

10/29/2026

Great things happen when people invest in each other.

We're excited to see the ImpactCR Mentorship Program recognized after a successful first year connecting young professionals with experienced leaders throughout the Corridor. These relationships help strengthen careers, build confidence, and create a more connected community.

HUGE thank you to Catherine VanDraska and Matthew McPherson for all of their work on making this years program a success.

Check out the article to learn more about the program's first year and future growth opportunities.

ImpactCR, an initiative from the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance (CRMEA), is celebrating a successful first year of its mentorship program “to help connect emerging leaders with experienced professionals across the Cedar Rapids community.” The program connected mentors to mentees, totaling ...

10/26/2026

Mentorship Spotlight!

We asked a few Mentor/Mentee pairings how the program is going for them, and here's what they had to say! ⬇️

Mentor: Torri Freese - Alliant Energy

"I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to mentor Chelsea Gordon from Crystal Group because I love being able to share what I’ve learned while also continuing to learn myself. Programs like this are so valuable because they create opportunities for leaders to connect, learn from one another, and invest in the growth of our community. I’ve learned a lot from Chelsea and truly appreciate her enthusiasm, fresh perspective, and commitment to growing as a leader."

Mentee: Chelsea Gordon - Crystal Group

"I’ve absolutely loved having Torri as my mentor! One of my favorite things about opportunities like this is getting to learn from someone else’s experiences while also sharing your own ideas and perspectives.

It’s been so fun getting to know Torri, bouncing ideas off each other, and learning from her experiences as a leader. Programs like this are such a great reminder of how valuable it is to make connections, learn from others, and continue growing both personally and professionally!"

Stayed tuned for more stories from this years program!

10/08/2026

Make Your Mark: An Evening of Connection, Inspiration & Impact

Thursday, November 5 | 5:30–8:30 PM
Classic Event Center, 3607 1st Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids
Tickets: $25 per person

Join ImpactCR to celebrate what our community can do together. Enjoy live music, food and drinks, and networking. Hear stories of ImpactCR's work in 2026, get a first look at what's coming in 2027, and listen to participants from our Mentor/Mentee Match Program.

Supporters, young professionals, community leaders, and anyone who wants to get involved are welcome.
Register for this event - https://bit.ly/4j7YV8F

Thanks to our Presenting sponsors | Cedar Rapid Bank & Trust and Collins Aerospace
Supporting sponsors | Principal Financial Network of Cedar Valley and First Interstate Bank

10/06/2026

LinkedIn doesn’t have to feel stiff.

Tomorrow Wednesday, October 7th, 8:00 AM–9:30 AM at Groundswell Cafe , ImpactCR is hosting a session to help you show up confidently — and authentically.

Featuring Mark Nolte, whose LinkedIn presence proves professional can still feel human.

Come learn how to make LinkedIn feel more like you.

Register Here! - https://shorturl.at/SyoOl

10/02/2026

Don’t let LinkedIn hold you back.

Join us for this ImpactCR Event! If posting on LinkedIn feels intimidating, overly polished, or simply not like you, this session is for you. Learn how to show up with confidence, share your authentic voice, and build a professional presence that actually connects with your audience.

Join guest speaker Mark Nolte on October 7 at Groundswell Cafe from 8:00–9:30 a.m. for practical insights you can put to use right away.

Seats are limited—register now and start using LinkedIn with more confidence, personality, and purpose.

When it comes to posting and engaging on LinkedIn, it can sometimes feel stuffy, overly polished, and even a little robotic. Join us for a presentation designed to help you gain the confidence to bring your personality to LinkedIn—so your audience hears your authentic voice while you still maintai...

10/01/2026

🎉 Welcome, new board members! 🎉

ImpactCR is fueled by committed young professionals who help shape the future of our great community. We’re thrilled to welcome eight new board members whose experience, energy, and community focus will continue to strengthen our mission.

A BIG welcome to:
Kennedy Klostermann - Holmes Murphy
Marissa Hernandez - Northwestern Mutual Eastern Iowa
Alexandra Parks - Hilton Garden Inn Cedar Rapids
Luis Flores - National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Raphael Robertson - Robertson Branding Company
Camren Palmer - Northwestern Mutual Eastern Iowa
Steven Bragg - Strategic Financial Solutions
Taylor Cline - Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa

We’re excited for the leadership you all bring to the community and ImpactCR!!

09/25/2026

Does LinkedIn make you nervous?

When it comes to posting and engaging on LinkedIn, it can sometimes feel stuffy, overly polished, and even a little robotic. Join us for a presentation designed to help you gain the confidence to bring your personality to LinkedIn—so your audience hears your authentic voice while you still maintain a professional presence.

Join us on October 7th at Groundswell Cafe from 8:00AM - 9:30AM with Guest Speaker Mark Nolte!

Register Here! ➡️ https://shorturl.at/y5FjK

09/04/2026

ImpactCR is looking for passionate young professionals ready to help shape Cedar Rapids’ future leaders.

If you love connecting people, bettering the community, and creating opportunities for growth — this is your chance to get involved!

👉 Apply now - https://www.cedarrapids.org/workforce/impactcr/impactcr-advisory-board-application/

09/04/2026

Wednesday night reminded us why Cedar Rapids is special.

Even with the heat and a few sprinkles, you showed up — ready to connect, grow, and keep building this amazing community.

ImpactCR is grateful for every one of you.

09/02/2026

Today’s the day! 🎉

ImpactCR Happy Hour is happening TONIGHT at The Yard (Kingston Yard) — and you’re invited to kick back, connect, and enjoy the best vibes in CR.

⏰ 5–7pm
🎧 DJ Dorrington spinning live
🎟️ Food/drink ticket
😋 Big Grove Brewery • Pickle Palace • Aroma Artisan Pizza

Bring a friend, grab a drink, and let’s make this midweek feel like a weekend.

Let us know you're coming! - https://www.cedarrapids.org/events/detail/eventid1887671/