A Year of Transformation
As we approach the end of another year we give pause to consider the changes we’ve witnessed and others we’ve authored. 2018 has been a year of spectacular transformation for both the Chamber of Commerce and the community we serve. This year has seen a continuation of the Chamber’s work to bring ever-greater value to our members. It has also brought spectacular additions to our community.
Just over two years ago the Chamber Board of Directors set a course for the organization, based on a brave, and potentially risky, principle: a Chamber unleashed. As an organization we were encouraged to rethink our processes and programming in order to remodel ourselves to have the greatest impact. This is where the transformation began.
At the end of last year we celebrated that first year of positive changes and predicted even greater ones to come. The year 2018 has not disappointed.
The old adage “change starts from within” perfectly encompasses the Chamber’s growth philosophy. Over the past 12 months we have witnessed profound internal transformations and are realizing exciting outcomes as a result. Our commitment to more effective advocacy has led to our CEO taking a leadership role with the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce, the leading small business advocacy organization in the state. Our commitment to building leaders within our organization has resulted in one staff member enrolling in the Chamber Executives Academy with Western Association of Chamber Executives, while a second received a nationwide fellowship to study workforce initiatives with the prestigious Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.
Additionally, looking in the mirror has led to changes in Chamber programming, from brand new offerings like Business Boot Camp to fully reimagined events such as Career Connect. Career Connect brings Springfield area juniors and seniors together with industry leaders to explore career opportunities, from job shadows to internships. In the spring, the Chamber’s Business Boot Camp gave members an opportunity to learn about business fundamentals, including strategic planning, cash flow management and marketing. These are only a sample of the exciting transformations in process at the Springfield Chamber.
Finally, looking around us, we can’t help but be thrilled by the transformation of Springfield itself. New roads, new businesses and an expanding awareness of what the community offers, have created a groundswell of excitement and a wave of new visitors to Springfield’s shopping districts. Over the past few years, people remarked about what the community could become at some point in the future. In the past few months, the future arrived and people now comment on how great the community IS. 2018 has been a year marked by transformation for the Chamber and our community. Structural transformation of the Chamber itself has led to marked improvements and new opportunities. New and improved programs and events have positively transformed the Chamber’s suite of offerings. Finally, the community we serve has transitioned from aspirational to actual, having become the regions newest destination for dining, shopping and entertainment. It is a very exciting time to be in Springfield!
