Nonprofit
VU Foundation Kicks in $50k for Habitat Homes Matching Fund
Show-Me Central Habitat for Humanity is has received a $50,000 grant award from the Veterans United Foundation – funded by employees of Veterans United Home Loans – to support the Habitat Homes Matching Funds Kick-Off initiative and the continued expansion of affordable homeownership opportunities in Boone County, according to a news release. The funding will directly support building materials for the first five homes in Phase 2 of Habitat’s Boone Prairie subdivision, a transformative housing development designed to help address the growing need for affordable homes in Columbia. Boone Prairie is a 54-acre subdivision that will ultimately include 143 homes for local families. Currently, 27 families are living in completed homes, with additional homes in various stages of construction. “We’d like to challenge other businesses in our community to match the generosity of the Veterans United Foundation in support of Habitat’s mission through volunteering, donations, sponsorships, or advocacy,” Jennifer James, Show-Me Central Habitat’s executive director, said in the news release. Community members interested in supporting Habitat’s mission through volunteering, donations, sponsorships, or advocacy can learn more at showmehabitat.org.
Business
Russell Wins ‘Legacy’ Honor, Huebner is Citizen of the Year
The Columbia Chamber of Commerce completed its 2026 award season on June 11 with a banquet at The Broadway Columbia. The annual event was sponsored by the Columbia Housing Authority, which is marking its 75th anniversary this year. The Chamber awards presented at the banquet and throughout this year included:
- Outstanding Citizen of the Year – Brandi Huebner, The Heist
- Chamber Legacy Award – Vicki Russell, Columbia Daily Tribune
- Emerging Professional Award – Tristan John, First State Community Bank
- Debin Benish Award – Jessica Macy, Partner for Better
- Ambassador of the Year – Amanda Jacobs, Jacobs Property Management
- Agriculturalist of the Year – Larry and Ruth Douglas Farms
Housing
Upward Mobility Initiative Earns Urban Institute Kudos
The Upward Mobility Initiative, facilitated by the Boone County Community Services Department and driven by community workgroups, has been recognized nationally by the Urban Institute and featured on the “In Their Own Words” section on the Urban lnstitute’s website. Four of the Upward Mobility Initiative leaders were interviewed for the story, which was published May 19, 2026. The story, “How Local Leaders in Boone County, Missouri, Are Advancing Upward Mobility for Residents,” shares information about the Upward Mobility Initiative and insights from Boone County Community Services Department’s Joanne Nelson, director; Gina Jenkins, data and performance analyst; Enola-Riann White, program coordinator, Upward Mobility Initiative; along with Affordable Housing Coalition workgroup facilitator Jane Williams, Love Columbia executive director.
Transportation
COU Begins Shuttle Service From South Parking Lot
Columbia Regional Airport started a shuttle service for its new south parking lot early last month. The south lot, located approximately one-half mile south of the terminal, has capacity for approximately 700 vehicles. Shuttle service between the south lot and terminal operates daily from 4 a.m. to 12 a.m. The shuttle is equipped with 15 passenger seats and rear luggage storage for larger bags. A round trip between the terminal and south lot takes approximately 10 minutes, though travel times may vary based on passenger loading and unloading. Parking rules are now being fully enforced and vehicles parked in prohibited areas will be towed at the owner’s expense.
Workforce
Coil Becomes Certified as Great Place to Work
Coil Construction has become Great Place To Work Certified. The award is based on what current employees say about their experience working at Coil. According to a news release, Great Place To Work is a global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors aimed at delivering revenue, employee retention, and increased innovation. The news release pointed out that Coil’s “experienced and collaborative team is central to its culture, which emphasizes treating employees like family.” The company also prioritizes professional growth by offering ongoing education and development opportunities for both field and office staff.
