For three decades, the Robertson County Chamber of Commerce has fostered community leadership through the Leadership Robertson County Program. This nine-month initiative, running from September to May, encourages local adults to take an active role in shaping the future of our community. Each month, participants delve into critical topics such as healthcare, education, government, and agriculture. Beyond learning, each class undertakes a project to support a local nonprofit, reinforcing their commitment to community service.

This year’s Leadership Robertson County class chose to support Cho-Zen, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering local youth. After interviewing five organizations, the class was moved by the testimonials of Cho-Zen’s participants and decided to back this inspiring group.

To raise funds, the class hosted "Cuatro de Mayo" on May 4, 2024 at the Robertson County Fairgrounds. This vibrant event focused its fundraising efforts on purchasing a van for Cho-Zen. The purchase would expand transportation options and opportunities for its youth members. Alumni, family, and friends enjoyed food, drinks, entertainment, and a live auction while supporting a worthy cause.

Through the May event, and the generosity of a local Springfield church, enough funds were raised to purchase the much-needed van. 

“We are beyond grateful for the incredible effort the LRC Class of 2024 put into making our dream a reality,” says Clarissa Gardner, Cho-Zen Founder. “The Cuatro DeMayo Fundraising event was more than just a gathering—it was a beautiful moment of fellowship and shared purpose. The love and support we felt from this amazing group was truly God working through His people to bless us.”

Founded on the principles of faith, leadership, empowerment, accountability, integrity, compassion, and community, Cho-Zen has been a beacon of hope since its inception in 2021. This organization emerged with a mission to inspire and support youth and young adults in overcoming life's challenges. Cho-Zen believes in the power of actions over words and has dedicated itself to mentoring youth, helping them become ambitious problem-solvers and confident leaders.

Cho-Zen's initiatives focus on equipping young people with the skills needed to navigate today’s society, encouraging them to bring diverse perspectives and take bold risks. Their ultimate goal is to nurture a generation of positive changemakers.

As Jane Goodall once said," Every individual MATTERS. Every individual has a ROLE TO PLAY. Every individual makes a DIFFERENCE." Cho-Zen embodies this philosophy, helping young individuals find their voice and work together to make a meaningful impact on the world.

The Robertson County Chamber extends their heartfelt gratitude to those who joined them at Cuatro de Mayo to be a part of this transformative journey, supporting Cho-Zen in their mission to empower the next generation of leaders.

2023 – 2024 Leadership Robertson County Class Roster

Rachel Allison, Bryan Ayers, Carrie Black, Kimberly Brickles, Melissa Bryant, Doug Davis, Jeremy Head, Nicholas MacDougall, Randee Masters, Jake Partin, Yeselin Pendleton, Meredith Risner,  Wayne Schoenheit, Misti Swindle, Bobby Thurman, and Meredith Young.

Watch the bus donation unfold as captured by Peter Stratton of Stratton DV Imaging here.