After struggling for several years, Morden and District Chamber of Commerce (MDCC) reported an income surplus.

Chair, Michelle Sawatzky, says the organization has undergone massive changes to its structure resulting in a stronger, more efficient voice for local businesses.

"Our chamber has completely turned around. When I look back to six or seven years ago our chamber was in dire straits, we were struggling financially. Back at that time, James Steedsman was the chair, and through his direction, the chamber turned around."

MDCC had excess revenue of $16,135, put towards their deficit of $7,037, leaving the organization with a surplus of $9,098.

Achieving this turnaround was through focusing on the little things says Sawatzky, watching their spending and ensuring they're connecting with their membership.

She explains their Executive Director, Candace Olafson, has worked tirelessly to visit their members and find ways to serve them and advocate for their behalf.

To maintain their success and sustain growth, MDCC is following their strategic plan, focusing on member engagement, advocacy, and chamber accreditation, says Sawatzky, so they don't lose sight of their focus.

"We have it mapped out month-by-month what we're doing so we're sticking to our plan. I think that's the key for us to be successful in the future for many years to come, as this board hands over the baton to the next leaders of the community, our goal is to have a legacy for them."

That legacy is a $3.7 million building project in Morden's downtown. The building will include underground parking, a main floor café, and the offices of both the Morden Corn and Apple Festival and MDCC. The upper floors will also have 15 luxury residential suites.

Sawatzky says the project should be complete this year and will ease the financial burden of having to maintain their own facility, which will put the chamber in a stable financial situation for the next generation.