Kelso Business & Community Association

The Kelso Business & Community Association is committed to fostering a thriving and vibrant Kelso. We actively promote business growth, strengthen community bonds, and initiate projects that enhance Kelso's appeal as an exceptional place to live and do business.

 

After the dissolution of the Kelso Downtown Revitalization Association (KDRA) in 2016, the ongoing need for support in Kelso was quickly discovered, and in 2018, the Cowlitz Economic Development Council (CEDC) began to bring Kelso businesses and community members together to brainstorm how to work together to nurture Kelso's development. A diverse group of stakeholders from the public and private sectors, as well as Kelso citizens, have been meeting since.

 

What have we done so far?

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• Created the Shamrock Shuffle Adult Easter Egg Hunt at Tam O' Shanter Park in 2023.

• Hosted our first Kelso Progressive Dinner and Historical Walking Tour with the Cowlitz Historical Museum titled "Bites, Brews, and Brothels" in 2024. 

• Created the Kelso Kids Bridge Market in 2024.

• Gave away 100 pumpkins in partnership with Grocery Outlet to local children around Halloween in 2024. 

• Grown our Business Flower Pot Program from 20 to 80 planted containers in Kelso.

• Organized multiple Kelso Clean-Up Days starting in 2018 through the present. 

• Completed the America in Bloom Growing Vibrant Communities Self-Assessment.

• In May of 2022, we officially filed to become an organized non-profit through the State of Washington.

• Helped purchase numerous banners for the light poles around the city.

• Supported the yearly Christmas Tree Lighting with the City of Kelso.

• Assisted with the implementation of a mural under the bridge with Workforce Southwest Washington and Goodwill Industries.

• Partnered with the Children's Discovery Museum for a Science Day.

• Partnered with Avery's for their yearly show and Shine VW car show.