On the horizon in 2022

From the desk of President/CEO Melissa Vance

It is hard to believe we have completely wrapped up another year, and two years since we began seeing the pandemic take shape and eventually reshape our lives.  The Chamber team has had their noses to the grindstone every day working to ensure you are supported with your immediate needs and have the tools for the next chapter.  This has included things like providing the latest details on grants and relief packages for your businesses, advocating nationally on the supply chain issues, and bringing the most relevant educational topics to help you navigate these unique times. 
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Now it is time to look forward to a new horizon.  What is in store for our Chamber members in 2022?  I can assure you it is going to be another full year with benefits to help you grow, and outlets to allow you to relax with fellow members and celebrate this great community we call home.  

The top 7 things to look for in 2022:

• Wayneopoly – The Chamber’s Annual Dinner is always at the top of the list for good reason!  This is a must for every Chamber member!  Celebrate gala style – or this year, Wayneopoly style – and be absolutely inspired by the amazing accomplishments of the businesses and individuals being honored.  This event will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish!
• A Culture of Diversity – This new, three-part series will help you identify hidden needs and provide tools to help your organization tackle the topic of diversity.  Wernle’s Darrell Gordon will inspire you; IU East’s Dr. Mengie Parker will teach you; and Belden’s Elle Marc-Charles will show you how to take the next steps.  Sign up for the entire series.
• Attract new employees – The Business & Education Committee is bringing back two events to connect your HR team with high school students. 
  • The first is next week, and if you haven’t yet registered, do it today!  The Career Fair invites juniors and seniors from every Wayne County High School to learn valuable insights on entering the workforce and then connect with your businesses for current or future job and internship opportunities. 
  • The next is the Hiring Fair coming in April.  This event is only for those hiring students directly out of high school, and only for students with no post-graduation plans.  You will have short, introductory interviews with numerous students and decide which ones to follow up with afterward.
• Grow and retain employees – We know that when we invest in our team, they are more likely to stay.  Take advantage of the Chamber Business Summit returning this October.  This is a small investment with big return.  The feedback from last year was outstanding because we had outstanding presenters from near and far.  Don’t miss year two!
• Flavor of Wayne County – It’s back!  You loved it last year, and we heard you loud and clear!  Live music, great food, activities, and a view from the top of the parking garage!  Save the date for May 20th and look out for more details.
• Chamber Pop-Ins – This brand-new initiative gives you a chance to get the inside scoop (only for those who opt-in by emailing Lynnette@WCAreaChamber.org) and help support local small businesses.  We will surprise a few by “popping in” to eat or shop in their establishments.  Join the fun!      
• Chamber Trip to Italy – You read that right!  We thought we were taking our first ever Chamber trip abroad in year 2020 but were unable to do so.  This is our year, and we are travelling to Tuscany in the fall to discover culture, expand our worldview, and make connections. Of course, you can’t travel to Italy without great food and wine, so we included plenty of time for that too!  Check out the details and join an informational session coming soon.

 
Thank you for choosing to be a member of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce and investing in the work we do to grow businesses and community.