SHIFTING GEARS CHAMBER AIMS FOR VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING TO SUPPORT MEMBERS ust like many of the member businesses we serve, the Chamber has had to pivot and adapt during this challenging time,” said Barbara Rivera Holmes, president and CEO of Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.
"WE'RE KNOWN FOR OUR VALUABLE IN-PERSON PROGRAMMING, BUT WE'RE ALSO EXCITED ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES WE SEE TO ENHANCE OUR PROGRAMMING AND BROADEN OUR REACH THROUGH A STRONGER DIGITAL PRESENCE." Regular Chamber programming will begin to resume as appropriate, but but virtual programs are here to stay as part of the Chamber's efforts to provide relevant and timely information to its members and connect them with valuable resources.
SOME EXISTING PROGRAMS, SUCH AS ITS POPULAR LUNCH & LEARN SERIES, WILL BE ENHANCED WITH A VIRTUAL OPTION. The switch allows for more participation as people can view from their offices or homes, eliminating the barriers of time and distance. Holmes also sees the opportunity to utilize an online version of casual Chamber Chat meetings as another outreach tool to make members aware of benefits such as the member health insurance program. Other Chamber programs, such as the annual Women in Business luncheon, may also go virtual with some additional in-person components. Started in 2017 as a way to bring together women in the workplace to share ideas and support one another, the popular event has grown steadily. “We have many women-owned businesses in our area,” said Holmes, “and it is so important to be able to continue to engage and encourage them. Virtual programming is another way to connect and convene and create community.”
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INFORMATION ON UPCOMING PROGRAMMING WILL BE SHARED VIA SOCIAL MEDIA AND AT ALBANYGA.COM.
26 JULY | AUGUST 2020
