The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce and Athene USA, a provider of retirement savings products, have partnered to support local businesses within the community to help spur the economy. Together, they randomly selected 10 local restaurants from the chamber’s membership, and Athene purchased a total of $26,000 in gift cards from the establishments to disburse to Athene employees as a thank-you. “We truly value our employees for their contributions at work and in our community and are pleased to express our gratitude while creating a mutually beneficial relationship in supporting local business,” said Grant Kvalheim, CEO and president of Athene USA. Representatives from both the chamber and Athene surprised the establishments and purchased 130 gift cards from each. Athene leaders began dispersing the gifts to employees on Sept. 2. “Athene is leading the way by not only spurring economic growth in our community, but also encouraging their employees to eat local at a time when restaurants could really use the support,” said Katherine Harrington, president and CEO of the West Des Moines chamber. The restaurants that were chosen in a random drawing were: Barn Town Brewing, BeerStyles Taproom and Gastropub, Dino’s Bar and Grill, Fire Creek, Gilroy’s Kitchen + Pub + Patio, Mac Shack, McAlister’s Deli, Raising Cane’s, Vino209 Wine Bar & Bistro, and Wahlburgers.