Board Of Directors
Know Your Representatives
President's Message
As your newly elected President, I want to take this time to thank Rene’ van de Vendel for his dedicated work as past President. I would also like to express my gratitude for the service of Terry Rosen as first Vice President, and Graham Duke as Treasurer. I have enjoyed and appreciate the service of all those that have given of their time and service on the executive committee and board of directors for many years.
I have been in this community for 13 years and started my own business here 9 years ago. It has been a great place to start and grow a business.
It is my goal to see the Chamber grow and develop an atmosphere of cooperation between business, Town, and citizens. To see a diverse group of members come together and help make this Town a place to build on the heritage that has made Coaldale what it is today. I look forward to continuing to grow the Chamber, to promote a healthy environment to do business, and to raise families. We have gone through a difficult past couple of years, that have taken a toll on each of us. I feel that together through these struggles that as a community we have come through stronger than we were before. Now with the help of each business and community member we can create an environment that will help our town move forward to a bright and prosperous future.
Robert Woolf
President.
Become Part of the Coaldale Chamber Team
Consider becoming a Board Member or participate on one of six committees. Nominations for these positions takes place in the spring. Work with business for business!
Testimonials
A Strong and Supportive Chamber for Coaldale's Business Community
Robert Woolf - President
Why Serving on the Coaldale Chamber Board Matters!
Coaldale has been a fantastic place to live and start a business. As my business grew, I needed a good healthcare plan, which led me to the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce. After joining and attending an AGM, I was inspired by the board’s vision and decided to get involved. I volunteered to serve on the board and took on the role of Activities Chairperson.
Serving on the board has strengthened my leadership skills, expanded my network, and allowed me to advocate for local businesses. It’s given me the opportunity to contribute to economic growth, support fellow entrepreneurs, and help shape the future of our community.
Most importantly, the Chamber is about people. Working alongside passionate business owners and community leaders has made this experience truly meaningful. If you’re considering getting involved, I encourage you to take that step—your voice and efforts are needed and can make a real difference in Coaldale.
Sincerely your President
Robert Woolf, Executive Chair
Bobby Gathercole - First Vice President
As a younger person in business, being a board member of the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce has been incredibly valuable. It’s given me the opportunity to make meaningful connections with other local leaders, stay informed about what’s happening in our community, and learn from experienced professionals. Being involved at this level has helped me grow both personally and professionally while playing an active role in shaping the future of Coaldale.
Bobby Gathercole
First Vice President, Local Advocacy Chair
Jack Van Rijn - Second Vice President
A Strong and Supportive Chamber for Coaldale’s Business Community.
For 39 years, I have been a proud business member of the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce, and today, I am honoured to serve as the 2nd Vice President. As both a business owner and the Mayor of Coaldale, I’ve seen firsthand the vital role the Chamber plays in fostering economic growth, advocating for local businesses, and strengthening our community.
The Coaldale Chamber is more than just a network, it’s a dedicated group of business leaders working together to create opportunities and support one another. From providing valuable business resources, such as group benefits and exclusive member programs, to hosting events that connect and empower entrepreneurs, the Chamber is always looking for ways to enhance the local business landscape.
One of the Chamber’s greatest strengths is its strong working relationship with the Town of Coaldale. Through ongoing collaboration, we work together to support business development, attract new investment, and ensure that local businesses have the tools and resources they need to succeed. This partnership plays a key role in driving economic prosperity and creating a vibrant, business-friendly community.
Serving on the board has provided me with valuable opportunities to contribute to Coaldale’s economic development and collaborate with fellow business owners who are just as passionate about our town’s future. The Chamber’s commitment to advocacy, education, and business success ensures that our local entrepreneurs have a strong voice.
I encourage every business owner in Coaldale to get involved. Whether you’re looking for support, connections, or ways to make a meaningful impact, the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce is here for you. Together, we can continue to build a thriving business community.
Jack Van Rijn
Second Vice President, Communications Chair
Darcy Turner - Treasurer
What can I say about being involved with a local chamber – lots. When I started with the Coaldale Chamber, I knew chambers where in most towns. I had no clue what they did. Since then, I have learned about all levels of chamber. Who knew that there was the local chamber, a provincial chamber, a national chamber and then the B7 which is the global chamber. I sure didn’t.
The local chamber is so integral to our business and our community. Through events we help with and hold it makes Coaldale a stronger place to live, work, and play. I found that the local chamber helped me learn a lot about our community and has made me more passionate about the community I live in.
On the provincial level, I attended the Alberta Chamber of Commerce AGM. Over the two days I learned so much about how our local chambers can have a voice on Municipal, Provincial, and Federal policies. I took what I learned and was recently able to escalate some business concerns to our provincial chamber regarding a bill currently in parliament. Before being on the chamber, I would have never thought to refer to my local chamber representatives for something involving federal legislation. It is empowering to know that we can impact change at all levels.
I truly appreciate the skills I have gained by participating in the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce. I recommend anyone who wants to be involved volunteer! It doesn’t have to be at the board level; there are different directors who would love to have some volunteers to help with various events. You will come away empowered and see the difference you as an individual can make in your community.
Darcy Turner
Treasurer, Political Advocacy Chair
Devin Phalen - Secretary
My wife and I moved to Coaldale in 2016 and have been so impressed with this vibrant and welcoming community. It’s clear that the citizens here take great pride in making it such a safe and positive place to live.
Knowing that these wonderful aspects of our town are the result of dedicated effort, and considering how much my family has benefited from the hard work of others, I felt it was a good time for me to offer my service.
I am hopeful that I can contribute meaningfully and build upon the excellent work the Chamber has done to foster economic development, which I believe is essential for enhancing the standard of living for everyone in our community.
Devin Phalen
Secretary, Community Chair
Chamber Committees
Click on the icons for terms of reference
Membership
Committee
Overseeing Chamber membership and initiate recruitment strategies
Local Advocacy
Committee
Communicates with Town council and administration
Political Advocacy
Committee
Communicates with government and Chamber of Commerce on a national and provincial level
Community
Committee
Communicates with local residents and other non chamber members
Events
Committee
Supervises events such as the Awards and Appreciation Banquet
Communications
Committee
Supervises Coaldale Chamber Communication
Working with Business for Business
We Want To Hear From You
The Board of Directors is dedicated to representing it’s members, promoting business and serving the Community of Coaldale. Board meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month and take place at the Coaldale Inn. All members of the Chamber are invited to attend these meetings. If you are in need of assistance, please reach out to our office or any one of our board members and let us know how we can help.
Board of Directors 2025-2026
Director
Jack Penner
NAPA Auto Parts
Director
Daryl Tonin
Stop N’ Go
Past President
René van de Vendel
Destiny Homes Inc.
Executive Director
Colleen Van Raalte
VR Virtual Assistant