Finding Joy Through Lending A Hand: The Fort Thomas Business Council

By Mary Casey-Sturk

As a non-profit coalition of local professionals, the Fort Thomas Business Council dedicates itself to improving awareness of businesses in the Fort. On an ongoing basis, their members meet and work together to lift the business community.  

They are also lifting the local community.

In the spring of 2025, you may have seen its members working on some landscaping and cleaning projects at the Campbell County YMCA on S. Ft. Thomas Avenue. This project not only beautified the grounds (and perhaps created an achy back or two), but it lifted the spirits of participants and the members and staff at the Y.

In September, Council members visited the Cincinnati VA Medical Center-Fort Thomas and served over 120 meals to veterans. On this sunny day, members were busy grilling burgers and hot dogs, prepping sides, and handing out sodas.

This local VA Medical Center provides primary care and specialty health services, including mental health care and residential care for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), exercise for Veterans aged 65 and over, chiropractic care and more.

Fort Thomas Living Magazine spoke with Derek Vater, who has been a member of the Council since 2021. He serves on its steering committee, and you might also know Derek from the Fort Thomas Farmers Market where he serves on its board. 

Vater, the Senior Retail Officer at Heartland Bank, a Division of German American Bank, knows the importance of a thriving community, and that includes helping those who may need a hand from time to time.

Formerly the Fort Thomas Business Association, it’s now the Fort Thomas Business Council, a name change that came in conjunction with a partnership with the NKY Chamber.

“The Business Council is a great organization. The NKY Chamber partnered up with some of the local business associations, and Fort Thomas was one of the first.” Vater adds, “It’s been a very good thing for us.”

“One of the initiatives we took on under the business association, and have been trying to build up momentum on, is volunteering in Fort Thomas.” 

Vater notes that the Council would love to learn about non-profits in the Fort Thomas community that could use some help.

“In May, we cleaned up the outdoor space at the Y. We helped restore the fence and some outdoor space that needed a little love. The Fort Thomas Business Council had around 10 volunteers helping this community staple.” 

Vater enjoys volunteering with the Business Council, “Community organizations are so valuable, and it’s a great way to give back.”  

If you’re interested in learning more about the Fort Thomas Business Council and becoming a member, visit https://www.nkychamber.com/business-councils or follow them on Facebook for details about membership and upcoming programs and events.