Shelby resident and local business owner, Joseph Wechter, was named the new board chairperson of The Shelby Foundation at the last meeting on April 16th. Mr. Wechter has been with the Foundation since 2016 and has acted as its vice-chair since 2017.
Outgoing chairperson Cody Albert spent his two-year term focusing on large scale impact that the Foundation could have on the Shelby community.
Foundation Director Carrie Kemerer stated, “Cody has so much passion for making our community better. He cares about The Shelby Foundation and he cares about the overall health of Shelby. His leadership has set up the Foundation to implement projects that will help stimulate economic vitality in this community.”
Understanding the importance of collaboration, Cody challenged the Foundation’s Board to work with area organizations throughout the county. He educated the Board on the importance of focusing on economic development and advocated for the Foundation to financially support the economic development liaison position housed at the Richland County Area Chamber of Commerce. Jessica Gribben was hired in the position in 2018 and focuses her attention in the Shelby area by meeting with business owners, assisting with retention and expansion, and helping recruit new businesses to the community.
Also, under his leadership, The Shelby Foundation recently awarded a $10,000 grant to revitalize the Shelby Wetlands that are adjacent to Reservoir #3. Funds will provide signage and marketing to draw nature lovers to the area. The current partnership with the City of Shelby and the Richland County Park District will ensure the wetland trails are maintained.
Cody has been with The Shelby Foundation since 2013. He currently is employed as marketing manager for OhioHealth and sits on other boards like the Renaissance and Area Agency on Aging Foundation.