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Your Go-To Source for Upcounty News & Events |
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This Saturday, we celebrated the season in Germantown and had the pleasure of seeing some of our members at BlackRock Center for the Arts, including Autumn & Joy, My Centered Self, and MoCo Commuter Services.
We enjoyed handing out cocoa and cookies to everyone! A special thank you to Wegmans for generously sponsoring the treats.
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We are the #GGCC. We are #StrongerTogether.
Together, we are the #UpcountyEngine.
Be in the know! Make sure you're social with us:
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MERRY GGCC!
Join us for the final networking event of 2024, sponsored by Ami Signs, Wegmans, and ServPro Team Hall! Enjoy appetizers, beverages, and great connections while spreading holiday cheer.
Bring: A gently used/new warm coat for the COAT DRIVE, or a $25 gift card (for local public safety officials working during the holidays). Can't get a gift card? Donate here, and we’ll handle it!
An ornament or gift tag representing your business to decorate the GGCC holiday tree. Don’t have one? We’ll provide one at the event!
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Attention all GGCC Members - we need your feedback!
Our 2024 Member Survey is open!
Thank you for taking the time to complete this GGCC member survey! This survey will help your Chamber staff and Board of Directors to better serve member needs into 2025 and beyond. We want to hear directly from you about which Chamber benefits and programs are most valuable to you, and which need improvement! We expect completing this survey will take about 10-15 minutes. You/your business may remain anonymous.
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Grow your heart three sizes this season 💚💚💚
Shop local and keep your dollars in the community you love! Every purchase supports your neighbors, strengthens small businesses, and helps our community thrive. 🛍️
Make a difference one gift at a time.
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Upcoming Events
See the complete list of upcoming ribbon cuttings, celebrations, networking, and professional development events here.
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Ribbon Cutting: Good K9 Academy
When: Tuesday, December 17, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Where:
Good K9 Academy
12101 Darnestown Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Register Now!
(Inc. in membership)
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GGCC's Year-End Holiday Open House
When: Wednesday, December 18, 1:00 - 03:30 PM
Where: GGCC, 910 Clopper Road, Suite 205N
Please consider a donation to our coat drive (for The Foundation Schools) and gift card drive for public safety officials!
Register Now!
(Inc. in membership)
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Ribbon Cutting: Marques Commercial Cleaning, LLC
When: Tuesday, January 14, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Where:
GGCC Conference Room
910 Clopper Rd #205n, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Register Now!
(Inc. in membership)
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Accessibility in your business (hybrid seminar)
When: Wednesday, January 15, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Where: GGCC Conference Room & virtual
Register Now!
(Inc. in membership)
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1st LAUNCH: Stars & Stripes Veteran Direct Connect
When: Thursday, January 23, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Where: GGCC
910 Clopper Road, Suite 205N
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Register Now!
(Inc. in membership)
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FYI Series Lunch&Learn: AI in Content Marketing
When: Wednesday, January 29, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Where: GGCC
910 N Clopper Rd, Gaithersburg MD
Register Now!
(Inc. in membership)
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2nd LAUNCH: Stars & Stripes Veteran Direct Connect
When: Thursday, February 13, 11:30 AM
Where:
MISSION BBQ
19800 Century Blvd, Germantown, MD 20874
Register Now!
(Inc. in membership)
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FYI Series Lunch&Learn: Demystifying Mindfulness in Workplace
When: Wednesday, February 26, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Where: 910 N Clopper Rd, Gaithersburg MD
Register Now!
(Inc. in membership)
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Committee Corner:
Highlights of GGCC's 4 Standing Committees of the Board
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Next Meeting: January 6 (Teams)
The committee is looking for active members that would like to contribute to the planning & coordination of the experiences for the group.
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Next Meeting: January 8 (Teams)
Are you interested in helping to plan the various events at the chamber? Join us!
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Next Mtg: December 17
The Membership Attraction and Retention (MAR) Committee: Our committee ambassadors have direct contact with new and existing members, and engage in professional development activities geared to business development professionals. All Chamber members are welcome to join and attend our meetings.
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Next Meeting: TBD (No monthly meeting in December, trying to schedule ad hoc meeting before State session opens)
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Next Meeting: January 9
Join us in this ad-hoc committee! The DEI&B committee will focus on advancing the DEI&B goals of our organization by advocating for economic inclusion, growth and competitiveness of our community’s diverse business population.
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Direct Connect Groups:
(Does your DC group have news to share?...email us!)
Direct Connect groups are member-led affinity groups that strategically connect smaller groups of GGCC members. More information here.
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SOHO Committee Meeting
"SOHO" is for GGCC Members who own and operate a "Small Office - Home Office". If you are a Member who works from home or in a very small office, please feel free to join us at the monthly “SOHO” Meeting.
Members - categorized as SOHO businesses - will provide support to one another. This is your business solutions roundtable! An opportunity to reach out to other like-minded SOHO business owners to share, grow, strengthen and expand your resources; all while "increasing the value of your business". Hope to see you there.
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Health & Wellness Direct Connect
We are excited to launch our exclusive Health and Wellness Mastermind Group designed for like-minded business owners committed to learning, growing, and driving success together. This is a follow up to our September Health and Wellness “Meet and Greet,” where we discussed key issues such as marketing strategies and work-life integration. This intimate group will focus on exchanging insights, solving problems collaboratively, and holding each other accountable in a confidential and supportive environment.
Bring your lunch and let’s connect to develop relationships and gain fresh perspectives! If you have any questions, please contact Steve Reinhold (steve@phwassociates.com) or Wendy Iglehart (wiglehart@wendyiglehart.com).
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Minority Business Owners & Entrepreneurs
This direct connect invites members to join and discuss topics that will help business owners and business leaders of color within the Chamber! The meetings are twice a month for 90 minutes at the end of the workday. Hybrid format first meeting of the month and second meeting online.
This direct connect partners with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Montgomery County. B2B and B2C businesses are welcome! Contact Fernando Fuentes for more information or the Teams link at FuentesF@fnb-corp.com.
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B2B Referral Sharing Group
If you are looking to grow your network and build some strong referrals this is a great way to get connected and reach your goals. The group meets 8:30-9:30 AM every other Tuesday. Email Ed Samuels, Auxilium Technology ed.samuels@auxiliumtechnology.com for more information.
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B2B Direct Connect Group - Our group is seeking someone from the following fields:
Business Consulting: OPEN POSITION
Commercial Real Estate: OPEN POSITION
Financial Advisor: OPEN POSITION
Insurance – Property & Casualty: OPEN POSITION
Merchant Services: OPEN POSITION
See here for more information!
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Pathways Direct Connect for Women
A supportive community of women in business and entrepreneurs committed to growth and connection. We support each other by sharing our experiences, expertise, and knowledge to help each other grow professionally and personally.
The group meets every third Friday of the month from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. It alternates between Zoom and in-person at a Chamber member restaurant! Email Philippa Channer or to join.
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LGBTQ+ Direct Connect: Networking for Empowerment and Inclusivity
The LGBTQ+ Direct Connect is a multi-seat, dynamic monthly networking group dedicated to fostering community, inclusivity, and diversity within the GGCC. Our group is open to both LGBTQ+ individuals and allies who are GGCC members at the company level. As a multi-seat platform, we offer a supportive environment to discuss LGBTQ+ issues, share educational resources, and highlight opportunities for greater inclusivity within the GGCC network. Join us to connect with like-minded professionals, spotlight important topics, and work together to make a meaningful impact on our community. We meet on the first Wednesday of the month.
Reach out to Sarah Savage (sarah@wpconcierge.com) or Jessica Washington (Jessicaw@perfectlypinked.com) for additional information or to join the next meeting! This group meets the first Wednesday each month.
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Nonprofit Direct Connect
Each month, we hear from a different speaker from a nonprofit GGCC member. and engage in discussions relevant to the nonprofit industry. In July, join us for a conversation with Ayda Sanver about budgeting for nonprofits. Learn about the importance of projecting income and expenses, and how to budget for organizational sustainability. Ayda has 25+ years of experience in both the nonprofit and corporate sectors. Since 2014, she has been a consultant to nonprofits around the country including those supporting homelessness, underprivileged youth, healthcare, animal rights, environmental protection, domestic violence, LBGTQIA+ rights, and more.
Facilitated by Denise Fredericks (Mercy Health Clinic) and Deborah Zimmer (Universities at Shady Grove), this group will explore professional development and strategic planning topics specifically of interest to our GGCC Nonprofit members, as well as highlight one of our members each month! The group will meet with 2nd Monday each month (time might vary by month), on zoom for now.
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Mastermind Direct Connect
'The Mastermind Direct Connect is a single-category networking group open to B2B and B2C members of the Chamber. This dynamic group holds each of their members accountable for assisting one another in the continued growth and development of their businesses and focuses on building quality and long-lasting relationships above all else. Each meeting includes a professional development topic and small group discussion.
The group meets in-person on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 7:30a - 9:00a. Please email Steve Barber for more information.
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News from our Annual Sponsors: | |
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Asbury Methodist Village - ICAA and NuStep announce “Best in Wellness” award winners
The International Council on Active Aging® (ICAA) and NuStep, LLC, are thrilled to unveil the recipients of the 2024 ICAA NuStep Best in Wellness Awards. This prestigious recognition celebrates the top senior living communities across North America that have fully embraced wellness as a guiding principle, transforming what it means to age actively and meaningfully.
ICAA NuStep Beacon Award Winners – Top 25 Senior Living Communities
- Ranked #20: Asbury Methodist Village (Gaithersburg, Maryland)
ICAA NuStep Top 5 Wellness Director Pinnacle Award Winners
- Belinda Degboe, Director of Well-being, Asbury Methodist Village (Gaithersburg, Maryland)
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If you have any updates, news, celebrations, recognitions & more about your business you would like to be included in the GGCC weekly newsletter, please email a brief description to Paula Ross at: pross@ggchamber.org. | |
- Ailyn Ferrebu - National Life Group
Learn How to Build a Tax-Free Child Education Fund
Thursday, December 19
7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
RSVP: aferr94@gmail.com
Join us for an exclusive Tasting Lunch Experience on Saturday, December 21st in Rockville, MD! Whether you're actively planning your next event, want to see more of what we're all about, or just crave a delicious, authentic lunch - Caribbean Caterers is inviting you to our table! In addition to trying a four-course meal featuring a variety of our delicious food, you will be able to tour our showroom and experience all that Caribbean Caterers can do for your event. The cost for this exclusive tasting is $50 per person, seats are limited and going quick.
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Channer Consulting, LLC has two Programs to Empower Your Business Journey in 2024! Starting January 15, EmpowerHer offers two tailored programs: the 12-week Business Accelerator for female entrepreneurs ready to step confidently into the CEO role, and a new 6-week EmpowerHer for Support Personnel, designed to equip support staff with the skills and insights needed to elevate their impact within a business. Each program provides practical tools, strategic guidance, and growth-focused coaching. Sign up to learn more and reserve your spot! Sign up to learn more and reserve your spot!
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Chick-fil-A Gaithersburg has partnered with Montgomery Village Middle School to collect coats and winter gear for struggling families. Bring gently used or new coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and hand warmers. Together, we can make a difference this winter! For each coat you donate, you will receive one free chicken sandwich! See Facebook post here!
Gaithersburg & Local Partners Awarded ENOUGH Grant Press Release
Gaithersburg’s Jingle Jubilee Lights Up Holiday Season Press Release
Sunday, December 15th
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
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Cross Community - Support Gaithersburg High’s Calmer Students Society! Cross Community is offering a pilot mental health and wellness program for the students and community at Gaithersburg High School! We are offering five local businesses the opportunity to sponsor this program by providing monthly lunches for up to 20 students in the program. Two sponsorships are still available. Please contact Ben Wikner (ben@cross-community.org) for more information. You can also get more info here: Program Info.
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Future Link is seeking caring volunteers to serve as trusted guides to our first-generation-to-college young adults (18-25) as they navigate their academic and early career paths. Mentors work individually with students to help develop important academic and life skills, explore opportunities, and take advantage of available resources. Join 250+ volunteer professionals in Montgomery County who help their students overcome their challenges and achieve success. Learn more: https://futurelinkmd.org/mentoring/
Celebrate MoCo’s small businesses with our Cycle, Scoot & Snap competition, running from now until December 31st! Here’s how to join in:
1️⃣ Ride: Use a bike or scooter to visit small businesses in Montgomery County.
2️⃣ Snap: Take a selfie with your ride in front of a small business.
3️⃣ Send: Email your photo to commuter.services@montgomerycounty.gov for a chance to win a $25 gift card! 💌 Be sure to mention the small business you're supporting.
📆 Weekly Winners: Randomly selected through December!
✨ Get Featured: We’ll spotlight winners on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and X!
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Nymeo - New Winter Coat Campaign-Head Start Program (3 and 4 years old children) Gaithersburg Elementary School. Nymeo is thrilled to support our communities through a “Season of Giving."
In Montgomery County, we are participating in the New Winter Coat Campaign for the Head Start Program (3- and 4-years old children): Gaithersburg Elementary School.
Would you please Join us to make a difference!
Here is the list to facilitate distribution for the 2 classes:
https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/3G205IMO5PW4X?ref=cm_sw_https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/3G205IMO5PW4Xem_r_gr_un_Co43EDBUVpTOS
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Paul Davis Restoration of Suburban Maryland & DC - We’re excited to invite you to participate in our upcoming blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross! Your donation can help save lives and make a meaningful impact on our community. With just a small amount of your time, you can provide a life-saving resource for those in need.
Date: January 10, 2025, 9am-2:30pm
Location: Paul Davis Restoration of Suburban Maryland & DC, 8797 Snouffer School Road, Suite G, Gaithersburg, MD 20879
Registration Link: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=PAULDAVIS
Monday–Thursday: Open volunteer hours from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Friday: Open volunteer hours from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Saturday: Our most popular day! Saturday Distribution runs from 5:00 AM to 3:00 PM with open volunteer hours during that time.
If you are interested in sponsoring a family or donating in-kind supplies such as warm clothes and toys they should need to go here: www.sowhatelse.org/holiday
🎁✨The Holiday Season is finally HERE! ❄️☃️
In the spirit of giving back, The Branded Company is proudly sponsoring our second annual “Jingle Bucks” gift card drive directly supporting local families within the Montgomery County Public School System.
If you'd like to participate and donate a gift card to a family this holiday season you can:
1. Mail us the physical gift card (or hand it off in person) ✉️
2. Email us an e-gift card to alison@thebranded.company 📧
3. Venmo us directly @thebrandedcompany and we will purchase your gift card for you (and send you receipts to confirm)💰
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Member Hirings
Check out our New JOB BOARD too! GGCC Members can post for free.
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If you have any hiring announcements you'd like to include in our newsletter, please email a brief description to Lucia Lumbreras at llumbreras@channerconsulting.com | |
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GBCI seeks a highly organized, creative, and civic-minded individual to manage its administrative and communications portfolio. This full-time role, based at the Asbury Methodist Village campus in Gaithersburg, MD, will enhance and develop systems to support GBCI's mission of fostering a "Beloved Community."
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee administrative systems, grant calendars, and donation processing.
- Lead communication strategies with volunteers, donors, and community members.
- Create newsletters, flyers, and website updates.
- Manage the organization’s phone and email accounts.
Ideal Candidate:
A self-starter with excellent writing and organizational skills, committed to social justice and racial equity. Must thrive in a fast-paced environment, value relationships, and work effectively with diverse groups.
Apply today to help advance GBCI's mission!
- Mentoring & Literacy Program Facilitator (part-time)
The Gaithersburg Beloved Community Initiative (GBCI) is seeking a passionate program facilitator with a love for literacy to lead our 1st & 2nd grade Intergenerational Mentoring & Literacy Program. This position is approximately 7 hours/week and focuses on fostering intergenerational relationships, literacy and social-emotional skills in young students by connecting them with older adult mentors and creating a fun, constructive environment for learning.
The program facilitator will plan and lead engaging literacy sessions, design age-appropriate intergenerational activities, and work closely with the GBCI Program Manager, mentors and students to create a nurturing, intergenerational learning environment. The content and activities for mentoring sessions need to meet GBCI’s Intergenerational Mentoring and Literacy program goals and outcomes.
About the Program: The Beloved Community Intergenerational Mentoring & Literacy Program connects older adult volunteers with students to engage in activities that foster literacy and social-emotional skills. GBCI volunteers provide support and encouragement while participating in diverse activities, including reader's theatre, creative movement, artmaking, and various fun exercises.
Apply today to help advance GBCI's mission!
This is a part-time, hybrid Executive Director role located in Gaithersburg, MD, with flexibility for some remote work. The Executive Director will be responsible for setting and executing strategic goals, developing and managing budgets, leading fundraising efforts, building relationships with stakeholders, and overseeing volunteers. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board to ensure the success of the Foundation's mission. See the full description of the role here.
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Thank you again to these Annual Corporate Sponsors who support the Chamber's important community engagement, advocacy, and business development work all year round! | |
The Chamber is now accepting 2025 Annual Corporate Sponsors. Commit now to be on the 2025 Sponsor page in the Directory and on the banner, and get digital benefits complimentary for the remainder of 2024! Email pross@ggchamber.org for more information. | | | | |
