06/20/2026
of the Chamber President & CEO, Katie Koester
I sat down to write this week's recap and honestly... the meetings, lunches, and photos don't seem all that important.
Because this week, our community was tested.
The first half of the week looked pretty normal. Chamber meetings, member visits, planning events, and all the things that keep us moving forward.
Then Wednesday night changed everything.
On Thursday and Friday, the Chamber phone was ringing nonstop. Emails were pouring in. Social media messages were flooding our inboxes.
Not because people needed something from us.
Because people wanted to help.
Businesses wanted to donate clothing, water, food, coffee, and supplies. Others wanted to write checks, volunteer their time, or simply ask, "What can I do?"
And while I may be the one writing this post, our Chamber staff spent lots of time answering calls, responding to messages, connecting people with resources, and helping direct countless offers of support. I couldn't be more proud of the way they stepped up when our community needed them. As a Chamber, we're honored to help connect people with resources and point them in the right direction. But the real credit belongs to the people on the front lines.
To first responders, law enforcement, fire departments, EMA personnel, utility crews, road crews, roofers, contractors, truck drivers, volunteers, nonprofits, churches, and countless others who immediately jumped into action.
This week was a reminder that our community is far more than buildings, roads, and businesses.
It's people.
The work isn't finished, and there are still families and businesses that need support in the days and weeks ahead. So continue to do what this community does best—support local, help your neighbors, volunteer when you're able, and never underestimate the impact of kindness.
If you'd like to support tornado recovery efforts, donations can be made here: https://4agc.com/donate/seildisasterrelief
I've always believed Effingham County is special. This week, we proved it. 💙
📸: J Will Photography
