The Economic Club of Grand Rapids’ Post

Great article from Southern Indiana Business Report on the one and only Becky Skillman!

Can't wait to discuss this topic @ Guilford Dialogues June 6 & 7. Check it out: https://lnkd.in/e7VdWhK8 Economic Development: Workforce, Training and Job Creation In the quest for economic inclusion, fostering workforce development, providing effective training and generating sustainable job opportunities are paramount. This panel delves into the intricate dynamics of economic development, focusing on strategies to empower communities through skill enhancement, job creation and equitable access to employment opportunities. Expert speakers will share insights into innovative approaches, successful initiatives and the role of public-private partnerships in fostering economic growth that benefits all members of society. From addressing skills gaps to leveraging technology for training, the panel will explore multifaceted solutions aimed at building a more resilient and inclusive economy, helping attendees gain actionable strategies and best practices for driving economic development and ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of prosperity. #WeAreGuilford

Our CEO, Dale Petroskey, has a couple of mantras that he shares with anyone who will listen. For many, these will ring familiar: 1. If you live or do business in #DFW, you're on the winning team. If you're a member or partner of the Dallas Regional Chamber, you're in the winning locker room. This speaks to the competitive, driven, and inclusive nature of our business community and of our organization. 2. Quoting Teddy Roosevelt, Dale offers "Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." This speaks to a worldview, a respect for long-term planning, and the flexibility to redirect when the first two no longer align. This is why I work at the DRC. https://lnkd.in/g6w_RieU #winningteam #winninglockerroom #workworthdoing

WHAT WE EXPECT OF OUR LEADERS Good character is expected in a free and open society, and a commitment to public service is considered crucial in a democratic society. Citizens typically look for leaders who demonstrate integrity, honesty, and a genuine dedication to serving the public interest. These qualities are essential for fostering trust between the government and the people. In a democracy, leaders are elected to represent the interests and well-being of the population. The idea is that leaders should be accountable to the public, transparent in their actions, and motivated by the desire to improve the lives of their constituents. A commitment to public service involves making decisions prioritizing the greater good and being responsive to the community's needs.

WHAT WE EXPECT OF OUR LEADERS Good character is expected in a free and open society, and a commitment to public service is considered crucial in a democratic society. Citizens typically look for leaders who demonstrate integrity, honesty, and a genuine dedication to serving the public interest. These qualities are essential for fostering trust between the government and the people. In a democracy, leaders are elected to represent the interests and well-being of the population. The idea is that leaders should be accountable to the public, transparent in their actions, and motivated by the desire to improve the lives of their constituents. A commitment to public service involves making decisions prioritizing the greater good and being responsive to the community's needs.

Great webinar this Thursday focused on the role of chambers in support of education, workforce, and economic development! Join us!

What are your worries in 2024?! I have the answer... As a dedicated community builder invested in supporting businesses aligned with their communities, I've begun some research to understand the biggest concerns facing community builders in 2024. So far, surveying and engaging in insightful discussions have unveiled a common thread among community leaders, highlighting four key areas of apprehension: 1️⃣ Ongoing Engagement 2️⃣ Sustainable Growth 3️⃣ Resource Management for Community 4️⃣ Effective Retention Strategies Thankfully Six Circles was able to join with some of their most successful Community Leaders, who generously offered valuable insights and advice to address these concerns, alongside tailored strategies for individual aspects unique to each community leader. Do you have the same concerns or is something else worrying you about your community in 2024? Complete my Google form and I would be happy to share with you some personalised Tips and Tricks to ensure you hit your goals for 2024! https://lnkd.in/exqS_jfF

We are thrilled to share that CNBC has named North Carolina the #2 state for business! 🏆 This prestigious recognition underscores our state’s thriving business climate, robust economy, and the hard work and dedication of our communities and partners.   At NCSE, we take immense pride in being part of this dynamic ecosystem that continues to attract and nurture businesses and industries. Our collaborative efforts drive innovation and growth, making North Carolina a top choice for business success.   💬 "This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of our communities and partners in creating a business-friendly environment. We are proud to contribute to North Carolina’s success." – Steve Yost, President at NCSE   We thank everyone who contributes to our state’s ongoing success. Let’s continue to work together to make North Carolina an even better place to live, work, and do business.   What do you think makes North Carolina a great place for business? Share your thoughts in the comments below! ⬇️   #NCSE #NorthCarolina #TopStateForBusiness #EconomicDevelopment #BusinessGrowth #Innovation #CommunitySuccess #BusinessLeadership #EconomicGrowth #StateRanking #BusinessDevelopment #CNBC

🌟 A Toast to Transformative Relationships: Victoria Kammerzell C. & the Spirit of Community 🌟 Amidst the clinking of glasses and the exchange of visionary ideas, my recent luncheon with Victoria Kamm-Chavez was not just a meeting of minds but a celebration of the heart. It is relationships like the one forged with Victoria that highlight the extraordinary impact of genuine connection in the realm of community outreach. Victoria, with her unparalleled blend of leadership, empathy, and strategic insight, embodies the essence of a community catalyst. Her commitment to excellence and the Platinum Rule—treating others with the specific respect and loyalty they seek—sets a benchmark in both business development and community engagement. Our partnership is more than a business endeavor; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration in making a tangible difference. Victoria’s role as a bridge builder in community relations exemplifies how relationships rooted in mutual respect and shared goals can illuminate the path to collective success. Reflecting on our conversations, filled with potential and promise, I am filled with gratitude. It is indeed the special bond we share and the shared commitment to uplifting our communities that make outreach so impactful and fulfilling. Here’s to the journey ahead with Victoria Kamm-Chavez—may our collaboration continue to inspire and make waves in the community we are both so passionate about serving. Together, we are not just aiming for success but for significance. #CommunityImpact #PartnershipForChange #VictoriaKammChavez #LeadershipInAction #GratitudeInCollaboration

One of the most impactful lessons I learn again and again about community-engaged partnerships is you can only go as far as your partnership allows. The keyword here is partnership, a practice that is meant to embody shared decision making, reciprocity, and a commitment to each other’s development, among other things. I first learned this in the Peace Corps when I wanted to hit milestones faster than my community counterpart, but we weren’t in sync. As a result, I essentially had to drag my partner to the finish line. This is a destructive situation that perpetuates uneven power dynamics and disregards issues of understanding institutional language and funder expectations. Although my practice of partnering has improved over the years, I still notice persistent pain points in how I—as both a community and academic partner—communicate, level-set, and troubleshoot. As a self-proclaimed iterator, I’m committed to reflecting on these pain points to avoid burdening and potentially destroying partnerships that initially start with so much invigorating energy and end up with disappointing outcomes. Being in community with other iterators has been a salve to nursing these pain points throughout my career, especially as I gather new lessons learned from you all.