April Local Legend: Georgia Haskell

Some people become known around town because they run a business or hold a title.

Others become known because of the impact they have behind the scenes.

The conversations they help guide.
The people they connect.
The steady work they put in to help a community grow.

This month, the Groovin’ in the Grove community voted to recognize someone who has been doing exactly that.

Georgia Haskell was voted April’s Local Legend for her leadership, community involvement, and continued dedication to supporting Cottage Grove’s businesses, organizations, and long term growth.

If you have attended local events, supported small businesses, or seen the continued momentum building throughout Cottage Grove, there is a strong chance Georgia has played a role in that progress.

Through her work as CEO of the Cottage Grove Area Chamber of Commerce and her involvement across multiple boards and organizations, she continues to help shape both the present and future of this community.

Because of the continued support and outreach through Groovin’ in the Grove, I had the opportunity to connect with Georgia, hear more about her story in her own words, and learn about the path that led her to where she is today.

This is exactly why the Local Legend program exists.

To give the people who help shape this town an opportunity to tell their story themselves.

For those who may not know you yet — how would you introduce yourself?

“I’m Georgia Haskell, CEO of the Cottage Grove Area Chamber of Commerce and a proud Cottage Grove High School graduate. I moved here in middle school with my dad, who owned a local vacuum and sewing shop and served on City Council and several nonprofit boards. That’s where I first learned the value of small business and volunteerism—lessons that continue to guide my work today.”

What makes Cottage Grove special in your opinion?

“Cottage Grove's greatness is the combination of small-town heart and big potential. We have incredible assets—our outdoor recreation, our arts community, our history, our amazing business owners—but what really makes it special is how engaged people are. There’s a strong sense of pride here and a willingness to collaborate and build something meaningful together..”

How have you been involved in the community or ways you like to give back?

“Through my role at the Chamber and service on boards like PeaceHealth, Travel Lane County, Lane Community College’s Cottage Grove Advisory Board, and the Chamber Foundation—as well as involvement with the Lions Club —I’m committed to helping our community grow in a thoughtful, sustainable way.”

What does being voted Local Legend mean to you?

“Being named a Local Legend is escpecially humbling when you see all the amazing people who have been nominated.”

Any message you’d like to share with the community?

“My message to the community is simple: keep showing up. Support local, stay engaged, and continue investing in what makes Cottage Grove unique.”

Why the Community Chose Georgia Haskell

Georgia Haskell was chosen as April’s Local Legend for her continued leadership, involvement, and commitment to strengthening Cottage Grove’s local business community and overall growth.

Through her work with the Chamber, regional organizations, and local initiatives, she has become a key part of helping connect people, support businesses, and guide meaningful development in a way that still preserves what makes Cottage Grove special.

While much of her work happens behind the scenes, the impact is visible throughout the community.

From supporting small businesses and events to helping shape long term opportunities, her role reflects a consistent dedication to showing up and contributing where it matters.

That ongoing commitment is exactly what the Local Legend program was created to recognize.

Because a Local Legend is not defined by a title.

It is defined by someone who continues to invest in the place they call home.