New to Dothan, Alabama: Your Guide to Getting Involved in the Community

2. Community Involvement: Volunteering and Giving Back

Like many new residents, I (Pam Barnes) found that relocating a family and business to a completely different area presented its share of challenges. However, the warm welcome and strong community spirit in Dothan were immediately apparent. If you’re eager to contribute to your new hometown and build solid connections, one of the best ways to do so is by volunteering. Dothan offers numerous volunteer opportunities and community service projects to choose from. Dothan also hosts a variety of community events that you can enjoy with your loved ones, providing further avenues for engagement and creating lasting memories. Events are listed later in this blog. Volunteer Opportunities Options are Below:

Volunteer at Local Organizations

• A. Wiregrass United Way: The United Way is a key player in Dothan’s community service efforts, supporting a wide range of nonprofits addressing various needs, from homelessness to children’s advocacy. Led by CEO Walter Hill and his dedicated team, the United Way welcomes volunteers for its events.

• B. Wiregrass Humane Society: If you are looking to volunteer a few hours at a time and have a heart for animals, you can help with sorting, cleaning, and pricing items donated to their thrift shop. If you have an hour or an afternoon, please come by and lend a hand.

• C. Wiregrass Area Food Bank: If you have a deep desire to prevent hunger in our community, consider volunteering at the Wiregrass Area Food Bank. Volunteers play a crucial role in our warehouse operations, undertaking a variety of tasks. These can include checking expiration dates on canned goods, assembling boxes, unloading food donations from vehicles, and general cleaning. The specific work assigned often depends on the Food Bank’s current needs. If you’re interested in volunteering, please call us at 334-794-9775 to schedule a time to help.

• D. Board Opportunities:

  • Rotary Club
  • House of Ruth
  • Kiwanis Club
  • Houston County Republican Women

3. Dothan Chamber of Commerce: Your Gateway to Local Business and Resources

The Dothan Chamber of Commerce plays a major role in connecting individuals and businesses in the Wiregrass region. As a newcomer, getting involved with the Chamber is the perfect way to integrate yourself into the professional landscape and learn about all the resources Dothan has to offer. The chamber is PERFECT way to get involved in the Community for new business coming to Dothan Alabama.

Membership Benefits with the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce offers a wealth of benefits designed to boost your business and connect you with the community. Here’s how you can take advantage:

A. Get Noticed:

• Enhanced Visibility: Your business will be introduced in the Chamber Connections newsletter and listed in our online directory at www.dothan.com, giving you increased exposure to potential customers.

• Free Advertising: New members receive a complimentary business card ad in the Chamber Connections newsletter.

• Affordable Marketing: Take advantage of low-cost advertising opportunities to further promote your business within the Chamber network.

B. Stay Informed:

• Business Community Updates: The Chamber keeps you in the know about new business developments, relocations, and other important happenings in the Dothan-Houston County area. We’re your central source for up-to-date information.

C. Grow Your Customer Base:

• Business Referral System: We receive numerous daily requests for recommendations on goods and services. As a Chamber member, your business will be referred to newcomers, tourists, residents, and other businesses seeking reliable local providers.

D. Expand Your Network:

• LEADS Groups: This exclusive member benefit offers structured, non-competitive networking opportunities. LEADS Groups meet semi-monthly on Wednesdays at 8:15 a.m., facilitating the exchange of referrals and leads to boost your business and profits. Learn more and apply online through our [Leads Group Application & Guidelines](insert link here).

E. Invest in Your Team:

• Troy University Partnership: The Chamber partners with Troy University to offer tuition scholarships to full-time employees of the DACC and its member organizations. These scholarships are applicable to all degree and certificate programs at all Troy University locations, including Troy Online and the Dothan Campus. To claim the scholarship, employees must provide a PDF letter on company letterhead verifying their employment after registering for classes. Contact Rachael Cox, MBA in admissions at Troy University Dothan Campus, Troy Online and all of Troy University, at (334) 983-6556 ext. 21222 or [email address removed] for more information.

F. Get More Involved:

• Ambassador & Diplomat Committee: The application process for the 2024-2025 fiscal year is now closed. Please check back in July 2025 for the 2025-2026 application period. For inquiries, please contact us at 334-792-5318 or Jessicas@dothan.com or lori@dothan.com.

4. BIG Annual Community Events: Things To Do In Dothan Alabama

Dothan, Alabama, is a community that loves to celebrate! Throughout the year, you can find a variety of exciting annual events happening around town. Stay up-to-date on all the festivities by following local event listings on Facebook. Two of the biggest and most beloved events are:

• A. The National Peanut Festival: Get ready for a 10-day extravaganza every fall at the National Peanut Festival! This massive fair is a Dothan tradition, packed with entertainment for all ages. From thrilling demolition derbies and live concerts featuring popular artists to a grand parade showcasing local businesses and organizations, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy classic fair food, carnival rides, arts and crafts vendors, and so much more. The Peanut Festival is a true celebration of the harvest and the Dothan community spirit, and it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

• B. Dothan’s Mardi Gras: Forget what you think you know about Mardi Gras! Dothan’s celebration, typically held around February or the first week of March, is a unique and family-friendly experience. This isn’t your typical parade; it’s a vibrant, joyful spectacle that’s sure to delight both kids and adults. Imagine colorful floats, marching bands, costumed performers, and a shower of beads and other throws. It’s a festive and high-energy event that captures the spirit of Mardi Gras in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable for everyone. And the fun doesn’t stop with the parade! Dothan’s Mardi Gras spirit continues throughout the year with various galas and other celebrations, keeping the good times rolling. Trust us, you won’t want to miss either of these incredible Dothan traditions!