Fort Chamber Celebrates Chamber of Commerce Month
The core services Wisconsin’s 267 local chambers of commerce offer their members vary from village to town to city. But whether they focus on advocacy, tourism, economic development, entrepreneurship, young professionals, workforce or organizing community events, they all play an important role in our state that should be recognized.
That is why Governor Scott Walker has proclaimed September to be Chamber of Commerce Month in Wisconsin. Walker made the proclamation at the request of the Wisconsin Chambers of Commerce Executives (WCCE), a division of the State Chamber that offers professional development and advocacy for local chambers of commerce.
“Chambers are central to Wisconsin’s local economies,” said Philip Fritsche, president of the Beaver Dam Chamber of Commerce and WCCE Advisory Board Chair. “In most places, the chamber is involved in all major local decision making either as a facilitator or advocate for its members.” Fritsche said that chambers are critical community partners and problem solvers with the unique ability to work with stakeholders from both the private and public sectors.
The Fort Atkinson Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting many programs and events during the month of September to further celebrate the occasion. As part of its workforce development and education efforts, the Chamber will be offering a job fair to help employers find and retain talent, and a Lunch and Learn to help businesses connect with prospective high school graduates and inform them about the types of careers available. The month will conclude with the Chamber’s Fall Open House, an evening networking event for members and the announcement of the 2017 Small Business Person of the Year, Tourism Counts and Friend of the Chamber awards.
“The Fort Atkinson Chamber plays a significant role in the growth of the Fort Atkinson area,” said Jennifer Welsh, the chamber’s marketing and tourism manager. “As a member organization, the Chamber recognizes its members and businesses for their contributions in making Fort Atkinson a great place to live, work and play”.
Chamber Month will culminate on September 27-29 with the annual WCCE Conference, which will be held in Neenah at Bridgewood Resort Hotel and Conference Center. At least 80 chamber professionals from around the state will attend.
To stay informed on current news and events throughout Chamber of Commerce Month, follow the Fort Atkinson Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page or visit www.fortchamber.com.