Tuesday, November 5, 2024
This e-newsletter is brought to you by Chairman's Circle member:
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Join Us for Chamber Connection | |
Join us Friday 7:30-8:30am for networking and all the latest news and announcements from the local business community. Don't forget to bring $1 and your business card for a chance at door prizes! | |
Before you vote this year, do a little research. Who’s running? What do they stand for? Why do they want your vote? This nonpartisan guide allows you to easily compare candidates in the Willmar Lakes Area. Covered races include federal, state, counties, cities and school board. | |
As election season approaches, we are reminded of the heightened emotions and challenges this time can bring, especially in the workplace. Many employers have shared concerns about the impact of election-related stress on the mental health and well-being of their employees, and we know these conversations are happening in break rooms and beyond. In addition, with the holidays on the horizon, this season can bring an extra layer of stress to many.
CentraCare Occupational Health is committed to supporting our employer partners and their teams through this period. We have collaborated with our behavioral health partners, including PrairieCare, to create a set of tools and resources designed to help employers manage workplace stress, foster positive communication, and provide support to their workforce. The link below include tips on handling political discussions at work, promoting respectful conversations, and helping employees navigate the emotional challenges that often accompany both the election and the holiday season.
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Alzheimer's Association Celebrates 10 Years | |
Congratulations and thank you to Walk Manager Josh Halicke of Alzheimer's Association Minnesota-North Dakota on 10 years of membership! The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. The annual Walk to End Alzheimer's takes place in September at Robbin's Island Regional Park. Pictured representing the Chamber are Diplomats Adrian Salinas (Universal Kutz Barber Shop), Christina Williams (R&J Tours) Chamber President James Miller, Jeff Martinka (United Prairie), Jessica Hanson (Willmar Hypnosis), Tracy Lundy (Lake Region Bank, Board), Suzanne Hass (Allstate Insurance, Board), Terri Wood (Woody's Trucking Inc., Board), and Lexi Kopacek (Christianson PLLP). | |
Place of Grace Home Education Resource Center | |
Congratulations to Place of Grace Home Education Resource Center on their Grand Opening! Place of Grace Home Education Resource Center's mission is to provide a community resource that equips families in their home education journey. They provide support from the beginning stages of asking questions, encouragement throughout and a place to belong beyond student graduations. Pictured are Chamber President James Miller and Ambassadors: Amber Barber (320 Real Estate Co), Lisa Groff (Lake Region Bank), Mary Hagen (West Central Technology, Inc.), Tonya Zimmer, Paula Holman, Abigale Rockis, and Kelsey Olson (Kandiyohi County Economic Development). | |
New Advertising Opportunities | |
The Presbyterian Family Foundation (PFF) is actively seeking two new board members. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities in the Kandiyohi County area, PFF also offers essential guardianship and conservatorship services throughout Minnesota. We invite you to seize this opportunity to join a foundation that has been making a significant impact in our community for 60 years. If you are interested, please contact Brooke Rustad, Administrator at brooker@pffwillmar.org. | |
On October 22nd, the Business Education Network welcomed three business representatives to present Classroom to Career to students at DREAM Technical Academy. These presentations allow business professionals the opportunity to engage with students, talk about career choices in the Willmar Lakes Area, and discuss how the decisions in high school will open future opportunities. The program is designed to show students that they are in control of their future educational goals through personal choice and educational decisions. Thank you to Jessica Hanson of Willmar Hypnosis, Robin Kopel of Hormel Foods / Jennie-O, and Adrian Salinas of Universal Kutz Barber Shop for presenting. | |
Health Insurance Savings for Your Business | |
Does open enrollment have you looking for a different employee health insurance solution? Learn how ChamberHealth is the ideal option for small and mid-sized Minnesota businesses. Available through any broker, ChamberHealth by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce is a collection of health insurance products from trusted partners like Medica and UnitedHealthcare designed to give small and mid-sized employers access to high-quality, affordable health insurance for their employees.
Benefits may include:
- Average of 5-10%, or more, in lower premiums
- Features and benefits for small to mid-sized businesses typically available only to large companies
- Access to local doctors, hospitals and other providers
- Providing an employee benefit to attract and retain top workers
- Additional savings with bundling of group life, disability, dental or vision
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Thursday mornings on Open Mic on KWLM, Willmar Lakes Area Chamber President James Miller hosts Chamber Chat. On October 31st James was joined in studio by Matt Stark of Pro Color Graphics. Chamber Chat is also available on Spotify. | |
neXt November Educational | |
Kandiyohi County is fortunate to have several nonprofit organizations working towards various missions that make our community a better place to live, work, and play. As we head into the season of giving, this is a unique opportunity to explore how you can get involved and make a difference that resonates with your passion, time, and talents. Whether it’s volunteering for a cause that matters to you or contributing to local efforts, this is your chance to learn, take action, and get engaged. RSVPs are encouraged to next@willmarareachamber.com to assist with event space set up. This event is free and open to the public. | |
Chamber Community Job Board | |
Hiring? Don't forget to login to ChamberMaster to post your openings on the Chamber Job Board! Job postings will be shared weekly in the e-newsletter that reaches 1,500 people as well as on the Chamber website. Please contact the Chamber if you have any questions.
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Thursday, November 7th at 10:00am - Chamber Chat on KWLM
Thursday, November 7th at 4:00pm - MN Reds, Whites, & Brews First Dollar at Intuition Brewing
Friday, November 8th at 7:30am - Chamber Connection at West Central Industries
Friday, November 8th at 12:00pm - Ambassador Meeting at United Way
Tuesday, November 12th at 7:30am - Grow MN! Meeting at the Chamber
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