Speaker encourages big dreams at Association’s annual award night

RED OAK — Business and community leaders were encouraged to dream big during Saturday’s Red Oak Chamber and Industry Association’s annual awards night.

Motivational speaker Mitch Matthews of Des Moines shared his personal experiences with dreams and left listeners with advice to achieve their dreams.

“Amazing things can happen when you give yourself permission to dream big, and amazing things can happen when you work together to achieve those dreams, whether for yourselves or collectively for Red Oak.”

Matthews and his wife unintentionally began what is now known as the Big Dream Gatherings. During 2006, they had what was meant to be a small gathering of friends to discuss their dreams and how to make them come true. The Matthews were struggling to launch a game they created and had heavily invested in, and thought maybe sharing these experiences would lead to a positive result.

 “That first night was proof positive we all have dreams,” Matthews said. “And if you just put pen to paper and let those dreams be heard, you might, with the help of others, just be able to make them come true.”

Matthews said his home became a meeting point for dreamers. Complete strangers came by to post their dreams, big or small, on the wall and discuss and help others with their dreams, many of which did come true.

“Think of what your big dream is, and own it,” he said. “But, don’t wait until your dream is done to enjoy it. Be in the moment.”

Prior to Matthew’s speech, Association volunteers and investors were honored for their hard work throughout the year.

Next, incoming Association President Kristie Konz was presented with the gavel. Outgoing president Allen Pohren was unable to attend the event.

Konz, the Operations Supervisor for UPS, said one of her main goals during her term is to get more investors involved in the Association’s decisions.

“I want to listen and hope people feel comfortable expressing concerns,” she said. “I know we can’t change everything, but I think it’s important to keep those lines of communication open. I think it will be an exciting year.”