Faith Mechanical

"Today’s Jefferson County Growth Association Businesswomen’s Storyteller Social featured an inspiring speaker, Colonel Laurel “Buff” Burkel, whose journey is truly moving. She reminded us of the importance of supporting one another, celebrating the good times, and finding growth and positivity during challenging moments. Her resilience and wisdom left us all motivated to encourage and lift each other up. Thank you to Colonel Laurel “Buff” Burkel and to everyone that put this together!"

Homestead Imprints

"I love spending my morning being inspired by strong, beautiful women at the Jefferson County Growth Association Businesswomen's Group. This is an amazing organization and the speakers are always incredible!"

Keller Williams Realty, Inc.

"What an inspiring 90 minute event! I had the opportunity to meet some amazing women at this quarters Jefferson County Growth Association Business Women's Storytelling social and was able to hear Colonel Laurel Burkel's story. WOW!! We all have a story. Each one unique. Don't dismiss yours. There is a plan and purpose for you and your story. You are needed! And you were created for such a time as this. Ladies, you should plan on attending at least one of these in 2025. I don't think you will be disappointed."

ProActive Chiropractic - Festus

"The JCGA Businesswomen's Group Storyteller Social was a morning filled with inspiration, connection, and women empowering women. We feel privileged to be a part of and serve this incredible community."

Pony Bird, Inc.

"Yesterday, Pony Bird was blessed to participate in the Jefferson County Growth Association's Businesswomen's Storyteller Social. What an incredible event! Representatives from Compass Health Network, Gaitway, Inc, and Pony Bird shared remarkable stories about the difference these organizations are making in Jefferson County. It truly takes a village to build strong, connected, and compassionate communities. Our #1 takeaway from the event echoes Pony Bird's core value - if we believe in the potential of all people and meet them where they are, anything is possible!"

Sandy Valley Honey Co.

"Always a great time seeing a packed house of women in business coming together! The Jefferson County Growth Association women’s group empowers all of us community leaders to keep connecting & supporting each other! Listening to storytellers on how they overcame impossible obstacles motivates us not to give up and that we are not alone in our everyday struggles! Bonus we got to enjoy a wonderful local venue Villa Antonio Winery on a beautiful fall day!"

Zimmerman Benefits

"Today's Jefferson County Growth Association Businesswomen's Group Storyteller Social was PHENOMENAL! We had the pleasure of hearing from One Tuff Bird, Retired USAF Colonel Laurel "Buff" Burkel, and her inspirational story with the message "Resilience Is Not An Individual Sport". If you have the opportunity to hear her speak, I highly recommend it!  Or check her out when she plays for the St Louis Blues Warriors hockey team and support their mission of helping disabled Veterans. Special thanks to Villa Antonio Winery for hosting and to Kami Kimes and her team for all the hard work it takes to bring these opportunities to the women of Jefferson County!"