Lori Donofrio-Galley
After more than 20 years in nonprofit administration, Northeast Berks Chamber Executive Director Lori Donofrio-Galley is the very embodiment of the organization’s mission: to be a resource and a voice for members, and to support the community through cultural and economic growth.
How did you get involved with the Northeast Berks Chamber? When I saw the position advertised for an executive director for a small regional chamber and I read the description, I knew immediately that it would be a perfect fit for me based on my experience. But I’m also very social and I love people. And in this job, it seems like I meet 100 people a week. It fits right in with my personality.
Having spent much of your career in the Greater Reading area and Lancaster County, what do you think sets Northeast Berks apart? What I find fascinating is that although I’m a Berks County native – I grew up in Wyomissing — before I took this position I was not familiar with the area at all, except for Kutztown, of course. So I was excited to uncover all of the cultural assets in Northeast Berks. It really has its own culture, and that’s what our chamber represents as well.
Do you have any favorite spots? Well, I don’t want to play favorites, but I’ll tell you what: there’s a lot of good food in Kutztown. I really like Mad Dogs. The toppings are amazing on those hot dogs. I also really enjoy eating at HIVE Cafe, Betty’s, and the K’Town Pub. And Paisley & Company is certainly a favorite retailer. But overall, there are just so many wonderful businesses developing in these small towns.
How do you think the Chamber has impacted business in the area? When I started I was absolutely amazed at how many successful solo entrepreneurs were part of this organization and how many new businesses were coming into this service area. But what impresses me even more is how these businesspeople support each other. The Chamber constantly offers professional development and networking opportunities, and they really devour that kind of information. It gives them a chance to come together and really helps to foster an incredible sense of civic pride.
What advice do you have for new businesses coming into the area? Above all, my advice is to plan. Do research and make sure you really understand what you’re getting involved in. In Northeast Berks – not only in our Chamber but outside of it – there’s such a great support system for start-ups, and we have countless resources available to make sure you have that plan in place.
Your event season is beginning soon; are there any standout events to watch for? September of 2019 will mark the 30th anniversary of this Chamber, so starting this September and running until next year will be a year-long 30th anniversary celebration that will be anchored by two special events. On Sept. 26 we are hosting our 5th annual Shining Star Awards, and that will be the kick-off for a year of activities associated with the anniversary.
