Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Events Newswire

Adult LFS Class of 2026 Project & Fundraiser 3/6/2026 8:00 AM - 4/30/2026 7:00 PM

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:15:46 GMT

Help support the LFS Adult Class of 2026 by donating to their class project! This class is raising funds to support the construction of an outdoor playground for Tanager's Bright Foundations Therapeutic Child Care Center.

The goal is to raise $10,000 to contribute to their $70,000 playground initiative. In addition to fundraising, the class will spend their service day at Tanager's 5th Avenue location constructing equipment for the playground as well as painting and improving various therapeutic spaces in order to better serve their clients and the community. Each LFS class member is tasked with raising $300 through their personal/professional network in addition to group fundraising inititives.

You can support this project in 3 different ways:

1) Individual Donation Options:

Donate through a 2026 LFS class member via cash or their personal Venmo (individual Venmo payments will be turned into the Economic Alliance)
Send via Venmo to Project Financial Chair, Tara Dumolien, (last 4 digits of phone #3700) Please include "LFS Class Project" in the memo along with the classmate's name you are supporting which will be turned into the Economic Alliance)
Checks can be made out to the Economic Alliance. Please include "LFS Class Project" in the memo- along with a note if there is a particular classmate you are supporting.

2) Participate in Big Grove CR Dine Out Events- Dine in OR take out on the following dates with Big Grove Brewery CR during the indicated times and Big Grove will donate 10% of sales to the overall LFS Class Fundraiser for Tanager!

Lunch- Friday, March 27- 11am-2pm
Dinner- Thursday, April 2 - 5pm-8pm

3) Corporate sponsorships- If your organization would like to give at a larger level, please contact Rebecca Sullens for a direct invoice for that amount.

Every contribution—big or small—helps us make a lasting impact. Your donation will directly support families in need and build a stronger, more compassionate community. Thank you for your generosity and support!

Have questions about the project: Contact LFS Director Rebecca Sullens to get connected to the correct project point person.

Click "Register for this Event" button below to make a donation. Online donations include a small credit card fee.

Photos with the Easter Bunny 3/20/2026 2:00 PM - 4/4/2026 8:00 PM

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:47:38 GMT

Get ready for an egg-cellent Easter season! ??? Capture the magic with Bunny Photos at Lindale Mall!

The Easter Bunny will be hopping into the mall from March 20 through April 4, ready to pose for sweet springtime photos with your family and friends.

Don’t miss out—hop to it and reserve your visit today! Lock in your preferred date and time, skip the line, and enjoy free virtual activities included with your booking.

Book Your Bunny Photo Experience

Click the link below to select your date and time and secure your reservation:

Where Is Bunny - Lindale Mall

We can’t wait to celebrate the season with you! ????

ImpactCR: Mentorship in Action 4/1/2026 8:00 AM - 4/1/2026 9:30 AM

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:34:45 GMT

Leadership Development: Mentorship

Mentorship can be a powerful driver of growth when approached with intention. This leadership development event is designed for young professionals who want practical guidance on how to find mentors, build strong and productive mentor-mentee relationships, and take ownership of their own learning. Through a panel of experienced community leaders, participants will gain actionable insights on initiating mentorship connections, setting clear expectations, sustaining meaningful conversations, and maximizing the value of these relationships from both the mentor and mentee perspective.

Meet the panel:

• Candice Luter — Founder, Candice Luter Art + Interiors

• Jeff Disterhoft — Retired CEO, GreenState Credit Union

• Lindsay Leahy — Executive Coach, Author & Founder, The Restoration Project

Moderated by Cari McCoy, CEO of Cedar Rapids/Marion Area YMCA

Learn more about the upcoming ImpactCR Mentor Program here: https://www.cedarrapids.org/workforce/impactcr/

Building Connections: Speed Networking 4/2/2026 8:30 AM - 4/2/2026 9:30 AM

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:57:36 GMT

At these sessions, you have the opportunity to meet many individuals from a variety of industries in a fast-paced, upbeat environment. We'll bring the coffee, you bring your most energetic self and get ready to network!

Contact Rebecca Sullens at rsullens@cedarrapids.org for more information.

This event is for members of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. Refer to our Membership Directory for a full list of members: https://www.cedarrapids.org/membership/directory/. If you're interested in becoming a member, reach out to Membership Growth Specialist Anne Laugen at alaugen@cedarrapids.org.

Bunny Bash at Bloomsbury Farm 4/3/2026 10:00 AM - 4/5/2026 6:00 PM

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:21:57 GMT

Shake off the winter blues and head to Bloomsbury Farm for a season full of fresh air, flowers, and family fun! From baby animals to thousands of blooming tulips—and even a special night for the grown-ups—there is something for everyone this spring.

2026 Spring Event Lineup:

Bunny Bash: March 28–29 & April 3–5 (10am–6pm)
- Classic Easter fun! Meet the Easter Bunny for photos, hold baby chicks, and enjoy 30+ farm attractions.
- Tickets: https://tickets.bloomsburyfarm.com/2026-bunny-bash
Adult Easter Egg Hunt (21+): April 11 (3pm–8pm)
- Who says kids get all the fun? A "later-shift" event specifically for the grown-ups with prizes and drinks!
- Note: This event requires a special separate ticket.
- Tickets: https://tickets.bloomsburyfarm.com/2026-adult-easter-egg-hunt

Enjoy 30+ farm attractions, iconic spring photo ops, and seasonal treats. Please visit www.BloomsburyFarm.com for a full list of attractions and planning info!

Bunny Ears Craft Day 4/4/2026 11:00 AM - 4/4/2026 1:00 PM

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:13:28 GMT

Bunny Ears Craft Day at Lindale Mall

Hop on over to Lindale Mall to celebrate the Easter Bunny’s last day of photos with a fun-filled Bunny Ears Craft Day! Before the Easter Bunny heads back to prepare for the big holiday, we’re inviting families to join us for a creative celebration packed with color, crafts, and springtime smiles.

Kids can decorate their very own bunny ears using fun craft supplies, bright colors, and plenty of fluffy flair. It’s the perfect way to make one last special memory with the Easter Bunny — and to book your Bunny photos before he hops away!

Bring the whole family for crafts and a hoppin’ good time as we send the Easter Bunny off in style. ????

Hills Bank and Trust Company Open House and Ribbon Cutting 4/7/2026 4:00 PM - 4/7/2026 4:30 PM

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 07:40:04 GMT

Hills Bank and Trust is celebrating the remodeling of its Southwest facility with an Open House and Ribbon Cutting at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7th. Hills Bank is the 3rd largest bank headquartered in Iowa.You’ll see Hills Bank serving, educating, and advocating for our local communities with Shop Local, Youth Salute, Habitat for Humanity, and many other good causes.

Refer to our Membership Directory for a full list of members:https://www.cedarrapids.org/membership/directory/. If you're interested in becoming a member, contact our Membership Development Manager, Anne Laugen at alaugen@cedarrapids.org..

Youth Leadership for Five Seasons- Virtual Info Session 4/7/2026 6:30 PM - 4/7/2026 7:30 PM

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:04:46 GMT

This information session is for high school sophomore who would like to learn more about the Youth. Students interested in Youth LFS from qualifying high schools must apply in the spring of their sophomore year through their school’s guidance office. Applications open after spring break and are due to the guidance office by or before the first week in May. (Check with your guidance office for specific deadlines, application materials, and letter of recommendation guidelines.) Individuals selected are notified sometime in May and participate August-March of their junior year. In the event that a selected student cannot commit to program dates, alternates will be notified.

Join program director, Rebecca Sullens to learn about the program and how to apply. Even if you're already familiar with the program, this is a great refresher and an opportunity to ask questions. Check out current LFS class here. Parents or guidance counselors welcome also.

Please register for this session. A calendar invitation with a Zoom link will be sent to you shortly after registration.

The 5 Mistakes in Goal Setting 4/9/2026 12:00 Noon - 4/9/2026 1:00 PM

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 13:13:57 GMT

What if the reason your goals aren't working has nothing to do with effort? Join business coach & consultant Dean Houdeshell for this live, in-person class where he reveals the 5 goal-setting mistakes most business owners never see coming — mistakes that keep driven people stuck, frustrated, and working harder than they should have to. You'll walk out knowing exactly where your goal-setting process is breaking down and with a whole new approach to fix it.

LFS Spring Alumni Society Lunch: Purpose-Driven Leadership 4/9/2026 11:30 AM - 4/9/2026 1:00 PM

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:15:54 GMT

Join the LFS Advisory Board and fellow Alumni Society members for this exclusive professional development event. Hear from LFS alum Karen Schumacher '11 for a lunch and learn on Purpose-Driven Leadership: Aligning Career, Calling, and Community.

Many accomplished leaders reach a point where success is no longer enough and they begin asking deeper questions:

Why am I doing this?
What impact am I meant to make?
How does my work connect to something bigger?

In this keynote, Karen will help participants explore the intersection of career success, personal calling, and community contribution; helping leaders clarify how their unique gifts can shape both their organizations and the future of Cedar Rapids. Volunteering and being part of boards isn't just a resume builder, but more a skill builder. More so, it's a people and community builder.

Karen Schumacher is the founder of Crescendo Leadership Development. As a consultant, executive coach, author, and speaker she is dedicated to helping individuals and organizations grow with purpose. A 2011 graduate of Leadership for Five Seasons, she is passionate about strengthening leaders who serve both their workplaces and their communities. At her core, Karen helps humans be better at being human by equipping them with the self-awareness, courage, and practical tools to lead with authenticity, compassion, and impact.

Registration is free! Seats are limited. This event is available to LFS Alumni Society members only. This includes 1 year 2026 payments, 3-year payments that are still active and Lifetime.

If you would like to join or renew Alumni Society membership, you can do so HERE or if you have questions about your status please contact Rebecca Sullens.

April 9th BizMix Hosted by ARA Gallery & Interiors 4/9/2026 4:00 PM - 4/9/2026 6:00 PM

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 04:12:19 GMT

Join us for the April 9th BizMix hosted by ARA Gallery and Interiors.

Guest enjoy casual networking, complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages, and an exculsive behind-the-scenes look at the host business.

BizMix brings together area professionals and is hosted by a different member business each month. This event provides EA members with increased opportunity for participation and connections. The event will run from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

This event is for members of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and the Marion Chamber of Commerce. If you're interested in becoming a member, contact our Membership Development Manager, Anne Laugen at alaugen@cedarrapids.org.

TellersBridge Storytellers present "My Generation" 4/9/2026 7:00 PM - 4/9/2026 9:00 PM

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 15:51:06 GMT

Whether you’re a Baby Boomer, a Millennial, or Gen Z, we all have a story that defines "our time." This is a night for the community to take the stage and share five to eight-minute stories about the music, the movements, or the moments that shaped their age group. From the era of rotary phones to the rise of the algorithm, come help us stitch together a portrait of the social fabric that connects us all.

Iowa Heartlanders Rock the Rink 4/10/2026 7:00 PM - 4/10/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:16:50 GMT

A headbangin’ night of live music, goal horn glory, and pure rock ‘n’ roll fun!

7PM
Indy
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Best in Yard: A Pet Day Pawty! 4/11/2026 12:00 Noon - 4/11/2026 4:00 PM

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 08:09:34 GMT

Pet lovers, this one’s for you!

Bring your dogs, cats, and pets of all kinds to Kingston Yard on April 11 for a fun-filled celebration of National Pet Day, presented by Pawsitivity Pet Spa!

Enjoy a pet parade, costume and photo contests, and explore pet-focused vendors. Whether you’re showing off your furry friend or just soaking up the fun, this family-friendly event is perfect for animal lovers of all ages. Huge thanks to our awards sponsor, La Bella Pet Spa!

For more information or to register, visit https://www.kingstonyardcr.com/petdaypawty

Adult Easter Egg Hunt 4/11/2026 3:00 PM - 4/11/2026 8:00 PM

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:21:47 GMT

2026 Spring Event Lineup:

Bunny Bash: March 28–29 & April 3–5 (10am–6pm)
- Classic Easter fun! Meet the Easter Bunny for photos, hold baby chicks, and enjoy 30+ farm attractions.
- Tickets: https://tickets.bloomsburyfarm.com/2026-bunny-bash
Adult Easter Egg Hunt (21+): April 11 (3pm–8pm)
- Who says kids get all the fun? A "later-shift" event specifically for the grown-ups with prizes and drinks!
- Note: This event requires a special separate ticket.
- Tickets: https://tickets.bloomsburyfarm.com/2026-adult-easter-egg-hunt

Enjoy 30+ farm attractions, iconic spring photo ops, and seasonal treats. Please visit www.BloomsburyFarm.com for a full list of attractions and planning info!

Iowa Heartlanders Stem Skate Off 4/11/2026 6:00 PM - 4/11/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:16:55 GMT

The magic of science, innovation and technology takes center stage at Xtream Arena. This is a night to bring science, math, engineering and technology to life on the concourse!

6PM
Indy
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Abbi’s Anchored in Hope Foundation | 2nd Annual Hope in Motion 5K: Run/Walk 4/12/2026

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 16:39:51 GMT

2nd Annual Hope in Motion 5K: Run/Walk — a student-led, community event designed to unite area schools in friendly competition while raising funds for scholarships, show choir programs, and family wellness initiatives across Eastern Iowa.

This year’s race will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Noelridge Park. The event’s signature “School Rivalry Challenge” encourages participants to register under their school’s name to compete for the traveling Hope in Motion Trophy — currently held by Jefferson High School. ??

It’s everything Abbi loved: community spirit, a little healthy competition, and a whole lot of heart. ??

Iowa Heartlanders Landers Fanfest 4/12/2026 3:00 PM - 4/12/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:17:18 GMT

Celebrate our final regular season game, presented by United Iowa Financial, as we thank our fans with a special giveaway and an epic postgame Food Truck FanFest on the Xtream Arena Plaza!

Also make sure to check out a Pregame Pyrotechnic Show, thanks to J&M Displays and Face Painting on the concourse, thanks to Face Painting by Hailey.

3PM
Indy
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

EDGE Monthly Webinar: The Power of Social Security: Three Things You Need to Know 4/15/2026 5:30 PM - 4/15/2026 7:00 PM

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:05:34 GMT

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3KxBg0hpScmGNZmMsgBj1g

April 16th BizMix Hosted by Spare Time Entertainment 4/16/2026 4:00 PM - 4/16/2026 6:00 PM

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 22:59:52 GMT

Join us for the April 16th BizMix hosted by Spare Time Entertainment.

Guest enjoy casual networking, complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages, and an exculsive behind-the-scenes look at the host business.

Brunch & Learn Workshop – From Imposter to Intentional: Restoring Confidence in How You Lead 4/23/2026 8:30 AM - 4/23/2026 10:00 AM

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:06:40 GMT

It’s time to quiet self-doubt and step into leadership with renewed integrity. In this interactive 60-minute workshop, we’ll explore practical tools for moving from imposter syndrome to intentional leadership so you can lead with honesty, humility, and authenticity.

Rooted in our core value of Act with Integrity, this session invites you to align who you are with how you lead — in your thoughts, words, and actions.

What You’ll Experience & Take Away:

Identify the internal stories and patterns that fuel imposter syndrome
Learn practices to rebuild self-trust and confidence in your leadership voice
Discover how to realign your values, words, and actions for greater integrity
Leave with a personalized reflection and intention plan to sustain your growth

Who It’s For: Leaders, professionals, and changemakers ready to lead from authenticity instead of approval and to turn self-doubt into self-trust.

Ready to move from imposter to intentional?
Register now to reserve your spot for this morning of reflection, connection, and courageous growth.

Our Sponsor for the Day

A heartfelt thank you to our presenting sponsor, Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust, for their generous support and exclusive sponsorship of our 2026 in-person Brunch & Learns.

Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust has been a longtime partner and champion of The Restoration Project and the communities we serve. At CRBT, they believe that a company thrives when its community thrives. This belief is reflected in their commitment to giving back through volunteering at local events, participating in community organizations, funding scholarships and donations, and supporting mission-driven programming like the Brunch & Learns we host at The Restoration Project.

We are deeply grateful to our friends at Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust for investing in leaders, connection, and community, and for helping make these meaningful gatherings possible in 2026.

This event will take place at Indian Creek Nature Center and requires pre-registration. To register for this event, use this link

Stuff the Truck - Friendly Military Challenge 4/25/2026 1:00 PM - 4/25/2026 3:00 PM

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:00:09 GMT

STUFF THE TRUCK

FRIENDLY MILITARY CHALLENGE

Saturday, April 25 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM At participating Hy-Vee locations

Each location hosted by a different military branch. Help your favorite branch collect the most donations and win bragging rights!

LOCATIONS & BRANCHES

5050 Edgewood Rd NE – Army

3235 Oakland Rd NE – Navy

1843 Johnson Ave NW – Coast Guard

2790 7th Ave, Marion – Marines

20 Wilson Ave SW – Air Force / Space Force

4035 Mt Vernon Rd SE – National Guard / Reserves

MOST NEEDED DONATIONS

Food Items: Canned meats, fruits, vegetables, stews & soups - Boxed pasta & jarred sauce Cereal, pancake mix & syrup.

Everyday Essentials: 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioner - Body wash & deodorant - Shave cream Tissues, paper towels & toilet paper – dish & laundry detergent.

CAN’T MAKE IT? Monetary donations are welcome. Scan the QR code to give quickly and easily.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Hosted by Freedom Foundation. Trucks provided by ServiceMaster by Rice.

Your generosity helps support veterans and active-duty military families in our community.

Lindale Mall Card Show 4/26/2026 11:00 AM - 4/26/2026 4:00 PM

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 14:35:11 GMT

Discover, buy, and trade incredible collectibles at the Lindale Mall Card Show, hosted by Locker Room

Join us on Sunday, April 26, and explore a great selection of trading cards from a variety of vendors. The show will take place on the West Lower Level from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, there’s something for everyone—don’t miss it!

Grand Living Dementia SUPPORT GROUP 4/28/2026 6:00 PM - 4/28/2026 7:00 PM

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:46:55 GMT

In partnership with Linn County, we invite you to an exclusive gathering for caregivers with loved ones with Dementia. Join us to connect with fellow caregivers and gain insights from leading experts in the field. This supportive environment offers a chance to explore practical strategies, and build a strong network of support.

Relish the Region 4/30/2026 6:00 PM - 4/30/2026 8:00 PM

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 20:45:43 GMT

Taste the Region. One Bite at a Time.

An unforgettable evening of local flavor, signature cocktails, and friendly competition.

Relish the Region brings together incredible restaurants from across our area for an unforgettable evening of crave-worthy bites, signature sips, and friendly competition. As you sample your way through the event, enjoy music and the lively atmosphere of a room full of food lovers.

Stroll from table to table sampling delicious creations from participating restaurants, discover new favorites, and vote for your top picks for Best Bite and Best Cocktail. The evening wraps up with a balloon drop celebration—purchase a balloon for $20 for a chance to win $500 and go out with a bang. Every ticket includes tasting samples from all participating restaurants, so come hungry and ready to explore the flavors that make our region deliciously unique.

**With limited tickets available, this brand-new event is expected to sell out quickly.

April 30, 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. (VIP admission begins at 5:00 p.m.)

Ticket Options:

VIP Experience-- $120 | Limited to 100 tickets (10 max/order)
Get the ultimate Relish the Region experience.

VIP guests enjoy exclusive early access from 5:00–6:00 p.m., giving you extra time to sample and connect with participating restaurants before the crowd arrives.

VIP tickets include:

Early entry (5:00 p.m.)
One drink ticket for the signature cocktail
Two bites or sips from each participating restaurant
Two votes for Best Bite and Best Cocktail
A commemorative event gift

General Admission--$80 | Limited to 300 tickets

Join the main event from 6:00–8:00 p.m. and enjoy a full evening of tasting and celebration.

General Admission tickets include:

• One bite or sip from each participating restaurant
• One vote for Best Bite and Best Cocktail

Only 400 tickets are available for this inaugural event, and they are expected to sell out.

Don’t miss your chance to experience one of the region’s most exciting new food events!