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Keystone Care A.B.A – New Member Highlight

May 20, 2026

Keystone Care A.B.A – New Member Highlight

Keystone Care A.B.A. is dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to children and families in the community. Focused on helping children reach meaningful developmental milestones, Keystone Care ABA works closely with families to create supportive treatment plans tailored to each child’s unique strengths and needs. Through evidence-based therapy and a client-centered approach, the organization strives to foster growth in communication, social interaction, behavior, and daily living skills while empowering families throughout the process.
What sets Keystone Care ABA apart is its commitment to creating a positive and encouraging environment where children can thrive. The team emphasizes collaboration, consistency, and personalized care, helping families feel supported every step of the way. Reasons to reach out to Keystone Care ABA include individualized ABA therapy services, family-focused support, skill development programs, compassionate care, and a dedication to helping children build confidence and independence. By serving families throughout the Northumberland area, Keystone Care ABA continues to make a meaningful impact through professional care, community support, and a mission centered on improving quality of life for children and their families.

Golfers and Sponsors Set for Tomorrow’s Tournament

May 20, 2026

Golfers and Sponsors Set for Tomorrow’s Tournament

We will be kicking off the weekend  with our 14th Annual Golf Tournament tomorrow at the beautiful Berwick Golf Club! Since 2012, this tournament has brought our community together each May for a fun-filled day on the course, and this year is shaping up to be another great one. As with all of our events, this weekend wouldn't be possible without the help of our amazing sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor:

  • SERVEPRO of Columbia, Montour, and Sullivan Counties

Additional Sponsors:

  • Alexander Family GMC Truck
  • American Paper & Suppl
  • Atlantic Culinary
  • Barry Isett
  • Benton Rodeo
  • Berwick Golf Club
  • Belles Signs
  • Blossoms in Bloom by Megan
  • Breezeline
  • BNI Central PA
  • Cole's Hardware
  • Columbia Montour Visitors Bureau
  • Comfort Suites
  • Community Giving Foundation
  • Country Fresh Market & Hardware
  • First keystone Community Bank
  • For The Cause
  • Fulton Bank
  • Gannon Associates
  • Gray Builders
  • Hayden Power Group
  • Henry Dunn Inc.
  • Horst insurance
  • Innotek
  • Knoebels Amusement Resort
  • Kreisher Marshall & Associates
  • Lily's House
  • Mckonly & Asbury
  • My Benefit Advisor / World Kinect
  • Original Italian Pizza – Bloomsburg
  • Perkins
  • Pine Barn Inn
  • Preferred Portables
  • Quaker Steak & Lube
  • Sean Black State Farm Insurance
  • Service Electric
  • Service First Federal Credit Union
  • Sip' N' Stuff
  • The Land & Residential Connection
  • The Press Enterprise
  • Trivium Packaging
  • Turkey Hill Inn & Brewing Company
  • Walkers Jewelers
  • Wild For Salmon
  • Zimmer Insurance

 

We can’t wait to see everyone on the green for a fantastic day of community and competition!

Member News ~ May 21, 2026

May 19, 2026

Member News ~ May 21, 2026

 

 

 

Events & Dates:

Camp Victory's 20th Annual Golf Tournament- June 4

Golf for Victory 2026 will be taking place at Frosty Valley with registration starting at 11am. Visit their website to register.

The Berwick Historical Society is Hosting a House Tours of Berwick event for American 250 -June 13 and 14

Visitors can tour homes from times past to today as well as two churches (the Jackson Mansion is not on this tour). Visit the Berwick Historical Society website with more details.
Win 2 free tickets from Cardinal Estate Planning by following the directions on their Facebook page. 

Penn College Essential Welding Skills Clinic - June 15 through 17

Essential Welding Skills is a 4-module stackable training pathway offered through Penn College's Workforce Development division. Each module builds on the last. Participants who complete the full pathway leave with process-specific AWS qualifications and the skills to compete for welding jobs across Central Pennsylvania's manufacturing and construction sectors. No prior experience is required to begin. Learn More & Apply Today.

The Women's Center Educational Event- June 23

Join the Women's Center from 9am - 3:30 pm at the Hub at Mulberry Mills for an Educational Event focused on understanding the realities and intersections of Elder Abuse and learning how communities can respond and support survivors. Register Here.

Lily's House Offering Pet First Aid & CPR - June 27

The demonstration will be led by Dr. Nancy Dreschel and limited seating is available. The Class will begin promptly at 10:00am. See the flyer for more details. 

Announcements:

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodrick Realty Announces Award Winners

Kevin Hodrick, Broker, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodrick Realty, of the Danville office announced the monthly awards for April 2026. The awards for the sales associate with top production in listings was presented to Carla Farley and sales also went to Liz Masich. Congratulations Carla & Liz.

Montour Area Recreation Commission and Talen Energy Announce Actions to Support the Current and Long-term Operation of the Montour Preserve

Talen Energy (Talen) and the Montour Area Recreation Commission (MARC) announced that they have taken additional steps to support the current and long-term operation of the Montour Preserve recreation area through an updated and enhanced lease agreement. The new agreement significantly extends the lease term, shifts the responsibility for certain capital improvement projects to Talen, and funds the Montour Preserve’s 2026 operating expenses.

Managing the aftereffects of being scammed By First Keystone Community Bank May 2026

First Keystone Community Bank recently addressed the effects scam can have on a person and how to take measures to avoid becoming a victim by visiting several of the bank’s 19 branches during Scam Survival Week, May 11-15. Read the full press release here. 

 

Service 1st Announces Future Site in Berwick, PA

Service 1st Federal Credit Union has announced plans to expand into Berwick, PA. The credit union recently purchased land located at 2295 West Front Street, Berwick, PA. More details will be announced as plans are finalized. Click here to stay updated as plans progress.

Danville Arts Council Announces 2026 Summer Concert Series at Memorial Park

The annual Summer Concert Series will return to Memorial Park this summer, offering a series of free live music for the community to enjoy. Residents and visitors are invited to bring lawn chairs and spend Tuesday evenings listening to a variety of local and regional performers in the heart of Danville. For more information, visit www.VisitDanvillePA.org 

Bloomsburg School District - What's So Cool About Manufacturing- Best of PA Award Nominee

Congratulations to the WSCM Student Team from Bloomsburg School District who are advancing to the WSCM State Awards for their "Best of PA" nomination. This year Bloomsburg students were paired with local Manufacturer, SEKISUI KYDEX. Good Luck Bloomsburg!

Danville Memorial Day Events- May 19 through 25

The Montour County Veterans Affairs Office released the 2026 schedule for Memorial Day Events. The Ceremonies will start on Tuesday May 19th and conclude on May 25th. Click here for full details

Cooper Electric Offers LED High Bay Upgrades for a Limited Time Through May 31

Now through May 31st, Cooper Electric is offering a special LED High Bay upgrade for the outdated HD or fluorescent lights for your business. To find out how you can take advantage of this offer, reach out to Jason Troutman at 570-317-1297 or email him at jason.troutman@cooper-electic.com.

Mamoth Recycling E-Waste Recycling Day set in Berwick - June 6

Mamoth Recycling will hold an E-Waste Recycling Day from 10am-1pm at its facility in the BIDA Complex (117 Powe House Rd, Berwick PA 18603) in partnership with Rep. Robert Leadbetter.

Susquehanna Valley United Way's 5th Annual Recovery Picnic - June 11th

United in Recovery’s 5th Annual Recovery Picnic is right around the corner! The event will take place on June 11th from 11:00 AM–2:00 PM at Briar Creek Lake Park in Berwick. More information and table registration 

Montour Night Out - June 11

Community members are invited to attend Montour Night Out on Thursday, June 11, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Danville Area High School football stadium. This annual event brings together first responders, community organizations, and local partners for an evening focused on community connection, safety awareness, and family-friendly activities. Attendees can expect a variety of interactive displays, opportunities to meet local police, fire, and emergency personnel, and learn more about the services available throughout the region.

Willows Vending – New Member Highlight

May 14, 2026

Willows Vending – New Member Highlight

 

Willows Vending brings convenient, dependable refreshment solutions to workplaces, businesses, and community spaces with a service approach rooted in people first. More than simply placing vending machines, Willows Vending focuses on understanding the needs of the individuals and organizations it serves. Whether supporting employees during a busy workday, offering guests quick access to snacks and beverages, or helping shared spaces feel more welcoming, Willows Vending provides practical self-service options designed around everyday comfort, accessibility, and convenience. It is their goal to have an option for all people, paying special attention to items that accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, which you do not typically see in traditional vending machines.

What sets Willows Vending apart is its focus on dependable service, accessibility, and personalized vending solutions that support both organizations and the individuals within them. Quality vending services can improve employee satisfaction, reduce time away from work areas, and create a more comfortable experience for staff, customers, and visitors. As the need for convenient, flexible refreshment options continues to grow, Willows Vending remains dedicated to helping local businesses and community spaces provide reliable vending services, fresh food options, and everyday convenience with a personal touch. Willows Vending also works to support the strength of the community around them, working with local restaurants and vendors to stock their products in the Willows Vending Smart Markets. Allowing small businesses option to display their products in this unique environment has the potential to allow their reach to go beyond the store front without stretching beyond their resource capacity. This is one of the core values Willows Vending operates from; The only way to change the world for the better is to strengthen the communities we live in and change the way we educate our children.

Member News ~ May 14, 2026

May 14, 2026

Member News ~ May 14, 2026

 

 

 

Events & Dates:

Danville Memorial Day Events- May 19 through 25

The Montour County Veterans Affairs Office released the 2026 schedule for Memorial Day Events. The Ceremonies will start on Tuesday May 19th and conclude on May 25th. Click here for full details

SHRMA Chapter Meeting- May 21st

The May chapter meeting will take place on Thursday, May 21st at the CSIU (90 Lawton Ln, Milton, PA 17847) from 7:45am - 9:30am. Breakfast and networking begin at 7:15 AM. Register Here

Bloomsburg Public Library "Pages to Pavement" Color Run- May 30th

Pages to Pavement is hitting the ground running (and walking!) in a burst of color, all in support of your local libraries! This untimed, all-ages color run features a 5K and a 1-mile option, making it perfect for everyone. **If you register after May 15, you may receive a plain white t-shirt instead of a printed race t-shirt.**

Montour Night Out - June 11

Community members are invited to attend Montour Night Out on Thursday, June 11, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Danville Area High School football stadium. This annual event brings together first responders, community organizations, and local partners for an evening focused on community connection, safety awareness, and family-friendly activities. Attendees can expect a variety of interactive displays, opportunities to meet local police, fire, and emergency personnel, and learn more about the services available throughout the region.

Susquehanna Valley United Way's 5th Annual Recovery Picnic - June 11th

United in Recovery’s 5th Annual Recovery Picnic is right around the corner! The event will take place on June 11th from 11:00 AM–2:00 PM at Briar Creek Lake Park in Berwick. More information and table registration 

Golf Tournament Benefitting Ronald McDonald House- June 11

The 34th Annual Andrew Schmid Memorial Golf Tournament is set to take place at Frosty Valley on June 11th. This year's tournament will benefit The Ronald McDonald House of Danville.  For more information click here. 

Announcements:

Service 1st Announces Future Site in Berwick, PA

Service 1st Federal Credit Union has announced plans to expand into Berwick, PA. The credit union recently purchased land located at 2295 West Front Street, Berwick, PA. More details will be announced as plans are finalized. Click here to stay updated as plans progress.

Danville Arts Council Announces 2026 Summer Concert Series at Memorial Park

The annual Summer Concert Series will return to Memorial Park this summer, offering a series of free live music for the community to enjoy. Residents and visitors are invited to bring lawn chairs and spend Tuesday evenings listening to a variety of local and regional performers in the heart of Danville. For more information, visit www.VisitDanvillePA.org 

Bloomsburg School District - What's So Cool About Manufacturing- Best of PA Award Nominee

Congratulations to the WSCM Student Team from Bloomsburg School District who are advancing to the WSCM State Awards for their "Best of PA" nomination. This year Bloomsburg students were paired with local Manufacturer, SEKISUI KYDEX. Good Luck Bloomsburg!

 

 

Mamoth Recycling E-Waste Recycling Day set in Berwick - June 6

Mamoth Recycling will hold an E-Waste Recycling Day from 10am-1pm at its facility in the BIDA Complex (117 Powe House Rd, Berwick PA 18603) in partnership with Rep. Robert Leadbetter.

SEDA-COG Opens Public Comment Period for Transportation Improvement Program – Through May 22

SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) has opened the public comment period for its Draft Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for 2027-2030, which outlines planned transportation projects across the region, including roadway, bridge, transit, bicycle, pedestrian, and freight improvements. Community members and stakeholders are encouraged to review the draft and provide feedback through May 22, 2026. A public meeting to review the plan and gather input will be held on May 4 from 9:00–10:00 AM at the Union County Government Center in Lewisburg, with virtual attendance options available. View related documents and information here.

 

McKonly & Asbury Webinar: AI Without the Hype - May 28

McKonly & Asbury will host a free webinar, “AI Without the Hype: A Practical Framework for Governed, Real-World Adoption,” on Thursday, May 28 at 2:00 PM EDT. Led by Adam Marsh, this session will provide a practical, step-by-step approach to integrating AI within organizations, focusing on governance, efficiency, and long-term knowledge retention. Attendees will gain insight into establishing AI policies, reducing operational inefficiencies, and building institutional intelligence that supports sustainable growth. One Information Technology CPE credit is available, and no prerequisites are required. Register here.

 

Cooper Electric Offers LED High Bay Upgrades for a Limited Time Through May 31

Now through May 31st, Cooper Electric is offering a special LED High Bay upgrade for the outdated HD or fluorescent lights for your business. To find out how you can take advantage of this offer, reach out to Jason Troutman at 570-317-1297 or email him at jason.troutman@cooper-electic.com.

 

LCBC hosting annual Global Leadership Summit - August 6 & 7

For over 30 years, the Global Leadership Summit has been empowering leaders worldwide. LCBC will be hosting this virtual summit at their Columbia - Montour Campus on August 6-7Learn more.

 

Geisinger Hosts New Resident Welcome Fair - June 22

Geisinger’s Graduate Medical Education program will host its New Resident Welcome Fair on Monday, June 22 from 6:00–8:00 PM on Mill Street in Danville, offering local businesses and organizations the opportunity to connect with more than 200 new resident and fellow physicians, along with their families and colleagues. Interested participants can host a free table to showcase their business or services. Registration is required by June 1. Register here. 

Foundation Forward: An Update From Your CMCC Foundation

May 13, 2026

Foundation Forward: An Update From Your CMCC Foundation

 

Welcome to the first of many updates from your Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Since its founding in 1992, the Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce has developed programs that focus on workplace wellness, leadership and skills development, and career exploration. As a 501(c)3 charitable organization and subsidiary of the Chamber, the Foundation is intimately tied to the priorities of the Chamber and its members, while remaining laser-focused on programming which inspires the 21st-century workforce and strengthens the bridge between business, industry, and education.  

Your CMCC Foundation has been busy...so let us catch you up to speed.

Sea Air & Land

Discover how local students are building the future through hands-on STEM education in the Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation’s Sea, Air & Land Challenge. From designing custom land rovers to exploring careers in engineering, aviation, and robotics, this inspiring program gave nearly 50 students the opportunity to turn classroom learning into real-world innovation. Read how community partnerships, local sponsors, and dedicated educators came together to create an unforgettable experience that is shaping the next generation of STEM leaders. Click here to view the full story.

 

Leadership Central Penn

Leadership Central Penn’s newest graduating class recently celebrated the completion of a transformative nine-month leadership journey at the Berwick Golf Club. Through hands-on professional development, community engagement, and leadership training, participants strengthened their skills while building meaningful connections across the region. Read how each group’s community service project reflected the collaboration, creativity, and dedication fostered throughout the program and learn why Leadership Central Penn continues to shape the next generation of community leaders. Read the full story here.

 

Educator in the Workplace Sign-up Deadline

 

The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Foundation is now accepting registrations for its Educator in the Workplace (EIW) program, with the deadline to sign up set for May 15. This immersive professional development opportunity connects educators with local businesses and industries throughout Columbia and Montour Counties, giving participants firsthand insight into today’s workforce needs. Through workplace visits and interactive experiences, educators gain valuable knowledge they can bring back to the classroom to better prepare students for future careers. Click here for more information.

Leadership Central Penn Graduates 22 New Industry Leaders

May 13, 2026

Leadership Central Penn Graduates 22 New Industry Leaders

BERWICK GOLF CLUB -- The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Foundation recently celebrated the graduation of its latest Leadership Central Penn (LCP) class at the Berwick Golf Club following the completion of the program’s nine-month leadership experience. Throughout the program, participants engaged in professional development opportunities, community education, and leadership training designed to strengthen connections and inspire future community leaders across the region. As part of the graduation ceremony, each group presented its community service project, showcasing the collaboration and dedication developed throughout the program. The day concluded with a few words of wisdom from community leader Brian Knoebel.

Throughout the program, participants worked closely with local nonprofit organizations and community partners to create meaningful service projects that would have a lasting impact across the region. This year’s class partnered with several organizations, including The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum, Ronald McDonald House of Danville, Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble, Leadership Through STEM, and Camp Victory. Each project highlighted the participants’ commitment to community engagement and leadership while supporting organizations that make a difference throughout Columbia and Montour Counties.

Graduates reflected on the relationships and leadership skills they developed throughout the nine-month experience. From networking with local business and community leaders to participating in educational sessions focused on regional issues and professional growth, participants gained valuable insight into the importance of collaborative leadership and civic involvement. The program continues to provide emerging leaders with opportunities to strengthen their skills while encouraging them to become active contributors within their communities.

The Foundation was also honored to welcome Sean Black of Sean Black Insurance Agency as the 2026 LCP Class Speaker. Sean shared words of encouragement and leadership advice with graduates as they completed the program and prepared to continue making an impact throughout the region. Leadership Central Penn remains one of the Foundation’s signature leadership development initiatives, helping to cultivate a strong network of future leaders dedicated to strengthening local businesses, nonprofits, and supporting the mission of building vibrant and sustainable communities.

Congratulations to the class of 2026!

Kenneth Andreas - PPL

Sean Black - Sean Black Insurance Agency

MaryBeth Broadt - Bloomsburg University Foundation

Alaina Burns - Geisinger Health System

Melissa Corbin - PA House of Representatives

Sierra Cleaver - SEKISUI KYDEX

Ian Donohue - SEKISUI KYDEX

Nicole Hause - Columbia County Housing & Redevelopment Authority

Danielle Renee Howie - Community Strategies Group

Jackson Jaffin - First Keystone Community Bank

Rebecca Kunkel - Geisinger Health System - Sponsored by Community Strategies Group

Breana LaFountain - Kawneer

Michelle Makar - Commonwealth University Foundation

Wilson Michael - SEKISUI KYDEX

Tessa Moyer - CSIU

Jessica Musselman - Geisinger Medical Center

Naomi Perez - Geisinger Health System

Morgana Slodysko - Columbia Child Development Program

Cassandra Smith - The Women’s Center Inc.

Jamie Smith - Maria Joseph CCC

Rylie Thomas - Livic Civil

Trevor Welsh - Livic Civil

 

Thank you to all of our generous LCP Sponsors:

  • Breezeline
  • Columbia Montour Vo-Tech
  • Community Giving Foundation
  • Community in Schools Pennsylvania
  • First Keystone Community Bank
  • Fulton Bank
  • Geisinger
  • Service 1st

Interested in participating in the next LCP class? Applications are live on our website! Click here to apply. For more information about the Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation and its educational initiatives, visit Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation

SeAL Competition Showcases Local STEM Career Pathways

May 13, 2026

SeAL Competition Showcases Local STEM Career Pathways

The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Foundation, in partnership with Penn State Extension hosted its 2nd Annual Sea, Air & Land Challenge, bringing together nearly 50 students from five school districts across the region for a hands-on STEM learning experience.

The 15-week program engaged students through robotics clubs and engineering Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, where they designed and built their own land rovers in the classroom. The program culminated in a final Challenge Day held on April 28, where students showcased their engineering innovations and teamwork.

As a part pf the challenge, each team was tasked with writing a Preliminary Design Review, a 10-page document that was critiqued by professionals and returned to the students prior to robotic development. The students then applied the feedback to build their robot, while staying within the proposed budget. On challenge day, students practiced public speaking and communication skills when giving their elevator pitches to the panel of judges. The students also presented and explained their budget breakdowns, a noteworthy financial literacy accomplishment.

Congratulations to Columbia Montour Vo-Tech on earning the top score along with $1,000 to invest in their robotics program. The Foundation would also like to congratulate Bloomsburg Area High School for earning the Best Innovation Award. This $500 award is presented to the team demonstrating the most creative and innovative approach throughout the challenge. Great job to all teams that competed this year!

The Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to Carriage Manor, Commonwealth University, and Fulton Bank for their generous sponsorship and support of the program. Their contributions helped make this opportunity possible for students throughout the region. The Foundation also thanks PPL Electric Utilities and its drone demonstration team for providing students with an engaging look into aviation technology and emerging local career opportunities, as well as Benesch for delivering an informative civil engineering presentation that connected classroom learning to real-world infrastructure and engineering careers.

“We are extremely proud of the hard work and determination these students demonstrated,” said Taryn Crayton, Vice President of the Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation. “Programs like this give students the opportunity to explore future local careers in STEM fields. Seeing their ideas come to life on Challenge Day was truly rewarding for everyone involved.”

The Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation also thanks the many volunteers and participants who helped make the program a success. Through Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) funding, the Foundation was able to fully fund participation for each school district, covering the cost of building materials used by students throughout the program.

The Sea, Air & Land Challenge reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to expanding educational and workforce development opportunities for students across the region through STEM programming and community partnerships.

Columbia Montour Chamber Vice President Taryn Crayton Recognized Among Central Pennsylvania’s Top Nonprofit Female Leaders

May 13, 2026

Columbia Montour Chamber Vice President Taryn Crayton Recognized Among Central Pennsylvania’s Top Nonprofit Female Leaders

The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Vice President Taryn Crayton has been recognized as one of Central Pennsylvania Business Journal’s Top Nonprofit Female Leaders for 2026.

The recognition highlights women across Central Pennsylvania who are making meaningful impacts through nonprofit leadership, innovation, and community service. Crayton was recognized for her leadership and ongoing contributions to workforce and leadership development initiatives throughout Columbia and Montour Counties.

In her role with the Chamber and the Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, Crayton oversees several signature programs, including Leadership Central Penn and the Se.A.L. Challenge, while also playing a key role in member engagement, community partnerships, and regional workforce initiatives.

“Taryn is among the very best examples of servant leadership that you will find anywhere,” said Chris Berleth, President and CEO of the Chamber. “She cares deeply about this community, works tirelessly behind the scenes to help others succeed, and brings professionalism, creativity, and heart into everything she does. We are incredibly proud of this well-deserved recognition and grateful for the impact she continues to make across our region.”

Crayton’s work has helped strengthen collaboration among employers, educators, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders while advancing the Chamber’s mission of supporting vibrant, sustainable communities throughout Columbia and Montour Counties.

The Chamber congratulates Crayton on this outstanding achievement and thanks Central Pennsylvania Business Journal for recognizing the important work of nonprofit leaders across the region.

For more information about the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce and its Foundation, please visit www.columbiamontourchamber.com

 

Why Serving Your Community Can Grow Your Business 

May 13, 2026

Why Serving Your Community Can Grow Your Business 

SUMMARY
  • Engaging in community service builds a positive reputation, encourages staff retention and loyalty, and amplifies core values.
  • Serving your community may help you hire and retain employees who are a better culture fit—younger generations of jobseekers want to find fulfillment in their work.
  •  When picking partners for community engagement, choose those that align with your company’s core values and areas of expertise.
  •  Businesses should be creative in their approach and enjoy participating in projects that get them excited.
~ 645 words / 3.5 minute read  
Running a small business requires dedication and time. But have you ever considered the benefits of community service? It may seem like one more thing to add, but research shows that helping your community can actually support your business goals. Serving your community helps boost your reputation, retain top talent, and create a more positive workplace. Keep reading to discover more about the power of giving back to your community.
Change How the Community Sees Your Business
Business owners start up because they want to solve a problem or fulfill a need in the community. However, once you’re up and running, making a profit often becomes the top priority. When this happens, members of the community may see you as someone who is just there to make a buck.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses and organizations stepped up to serve their community and live out their core values. Entrepreneur magazine reported that during the shutdown, After-School-All-Stars, a national nonprofit that runs after school programs, tuned into the needs of their local communities and started providing meals, distance learning, and mental health support for students and families.
You don’t need an economic crisis to show up for your community. You can demonstrate your company’s values by volunteering as a group or sponsoring an event you believe in. One study found that a whopping 78% of consumers want businesses to take the lead on social issues. In other words, when you invest your time or money into important service opportunities customers take notice. When you give back, people see you as part of the community and are more likely to use your business.
Hire and Retain Employees that Share Your Values 
If your business’s number one goal is profit, you will attract employees who feel the same way. Their loyalty will be limited to the next paycheck, and for the most part, they won't go above and beyond when you need it. However, when your company lives its core values within the community, retention rates will be higher, and you will attract skilled people who want to do more than simply show up.
This strategy is especially important if you hire younger employees. Forbes reported that 83% of millennials said they would be more loyal to a company that contributed to social and environmental issues. They also found that Gen Z, the newest group to enter the workforce, expect their employer to have a purpose beyond profit. Gen Z job candidates even showed they are more likely to read mission statements and value documents.
When you have a company culture that includes giving back, you can attract aspirational employees. These workers want to be connected to something bigger than themselves, and when your business gives them that opportunity, they find more than employment–they find fulfillment.
Pick the Right Partners
Of course, when you choose to do community outreach, it needs to fit with your organization's core values and areas of expertise. To find opportunities that are right for you and your business, try some of the strategies listed below.
  • What problems exist in my community today? Whether it’s supporting local schools or animal shelters, find a cause that aligns with your values.
  • Encourage employees to volunteer during work hours. Maybe it’s just one hour a month, but when employees can give back during work hours they don’t have to choose between serving and time off.
  • Create a custom plan for volunteering based on what matters to your employees.
  • Share about the time and investment your employees give on social media or your website. People love feel-good stories and this will help boost the perception of your business.
The Bottom Line
Above all, be creative in your approach and choose projects that get you excited. Your enthusiasm will shine through and make your business memorable in the eyes of your community.
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