Residents Across Montgomery County Shine Through Community Engagement

Quality of life is a significant driver of economic development. The chambers of commerce across Montgomery County work tirelessly to make this part of America a great place to live. However, their efforts are supported by the residents who eagerly jump in to volunteer their time and skills to make the various events and programs happen. From spring festivals to park clean-ups, there’s always a new way to give back.  

“Our residents and businesses both support their communities throughout the year,” says Melissa Johnson, Executive Director of the Montgomery County Action Council (MCAC). “They sponsor events, volunteer their time, or simply participate in activities they enjoy. Everyone has a place to thrive in Montgomery County.”  

We reached out to the local chambers of commerce to see what they are most proud of in their communities. Here are just a few reasons you will love living in any corner of Montgomery County.

Independence

The spirit of volunteerism in Independence is the heartbeat of our community. Residents can get involved in the annual William Inge Theatre Festival, the Neewollah Festival, or the Veterans Day of Honor celebration. Outside of annual events, they can volunteer with the beloved Little House on the Prairie Museum or beautify the Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo.

"Volunteerism is the secret sauce of Independence!” says Lisa Wilson, President and CEO of the Independence Chamber of Commerce. “It's what makes our city tick, bringing life and excitement to the numerous amenities, activities, and events that set us apart from other communities our size and larger.  Together, we're not just a community; we're a family, united by our passion and dedication to making Independence shine."

Every year on the last Saturday in April, Independence community members take part in “Love Independence Day,” a community-wide day of volunteerism, where residents, local businesses, and civic groups descend upon the town to clean up properties, volunteer at the local park, paint fire hydrants, help their neighbors, paint and clean up homes, pay it forward, and so much more.

With countless amenities, activities, and festivals, all made possible by the selfless contributions of residents and businesses, Independence stands as a premier destination, fueled by the generosity and dedication of its people.

Coffeyville

Coffeyville is packed with events and activities throughout the year. July brings the biggest fireworks show in the region while October has the Hops Around Town Brewfest and Dalton Defender Days, two festivals with live music, food, and local vendors. Residents love volunteering at these events and sponsoring them as food and craft vendors.

Of course, you don’t have to wait for an event or festival to enjoy your time in Coffeyville. Residents love exploring the beautiful downtown district and the 10 available parks – including a special outdoor destination park that is only one like it in Kansas.

“Our people are one of our biggest treasures- from the early days of the Dalton Gang take down, our people have a wonderful fighting spirit, always coming together to overcome any challenge,” says Candi Westbrook, President and CEO of the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce. 

Cherryvale

Cherryvale has a diverse mixture of major events, recurring activities, and community groups to join. The Cherryvale Chamber of Commerce more than doubled its membership in the past year and debuted a quarterly member breakfast meeting where residents can network and discover new ways to work together.

Young professionals who join the Chamber can also become part of The Collective, which is made up of people ages 21 to 45. This is a great way to make your voice heard and brainstorm ways to improve the city of Cherryvale. Members can also join the beautification group that plans to add flowers and benches downtown.

There’s no bad time to live in Cherryvale, but residents look forward to the annual Cherry Blossom Festival each Spring. In 2024, the festival falls on May 16-19. The festival was expanded this year to include a pageant, parade, vendors, bands, church in the park, and so much more! 

Caney

Since 1869, Caney has been where Hope Runs Wild, and the best way to experience the care and engagement of its residents is through the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation. The goal of this group is to empower people and build businesses in the area. It is responsible for 598 volunteer hours so far.

“What sets our community apart is our volunteer-driven approach, where passionate individuals come together to foster growth and development in various facets of community life,” says Jared Daniels, President of the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation. “The Betterment Group serves as a chamber of commerce, a community foundation, and much more, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”

One of the most notable events in Caney is Mayfest, which is held each Memorial Day weekend. More than 5,000 attendees enjoy good food, creative vendors, a 5k run, a car show, and other activities. There is also a Memorial Service on Monday at Veteran’s Memorial Park to honor those who died in service.  

Join MCAC and Stay Engaged in Your Community

Whether you love cleaning up the parks of Coffeyville or volunteering at Mayfest in Caney, there are countless ways to engage with the Montgomery County community. There are dozens of organizations that strive to help their neighbors, nature, and animals that make this part of Kansas a great place to live.  

To learn about engagement opportunities and discover other ways to help Montgomery County grow, become a member of the Montgomery County Action Council. Your membership can bring new businesses to the region while growing the companies we already have here today. Join today and support the quality of life of Montgomery County.

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