LEADERSHIP PARTNER LUNCHEON

On Tuesday, August 24th, the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 12th Annual Leadership Luncheon for our Leadership Partners. The event was held at The Archway with delicious BBQ provided by Mom and Dad's BBQ as well as mini cupcakes provided by Smallcakes. CEO/ President, Derek Rusher, presented an overview of the progress the Chamber has made in the past few years. A couple of points mentioned was the 95% retention rate, $400k in Buffalo Bucks sold, and social media platform engagement rising. Given the past couple of years of unforeseen obstacles, the calculations were taken from 2018 - 2021. With that in mind, Derek also mentioned the "Resiliency in the Face of Adversity Award" presented to the chamber in May for adapting to an uncertain environment by implementing new ways of doing things.

As the Chamber looks to the future, there are several measures of involvement, education, advocacy, and marketing planned to maintain the success of Kearney businesses.

The workforce in Kearney is of utmost importance and requires us to be innovative in order to continue growth and achievement. Some of the efforts to support this include job fairs, job postings, enhanced relocation packets, scholarships, and committees. These committees include THRIVE, a NEW referral program helping businesses recruit high-level employees, and NEXT, a training program including professional development, personal growth, and networking opportunities. The Chamber is working to empower employees as well as holding employment inclusion events like Career Exploration Day. This October event provides an opportunity for surrounding high schools to gather and learn about different business and career options following graduation. Another new concept the Chamber will be introducing is the Dirty Jobs Videos. These consist of our very own Derek Rusher visiting places of business and performing work-related tasks. This will act as a way for potential employees to see firsthand what skills would be expected upon hire.

Exciting events will be happening in the upcoming months. Our big Taste Kearney event will be taking the place of our usual Oktoberfest event. From September 18-23, participating restaurants will create special menu items not available on the regular menu and can include any combination of drinks, apps, entrees, desserts, & special combos.

Our involvement in Law Enforcement Appreciation Week, October 18-22, will also be a community-wide event. The objective of the week is to provide opportunities for citizens of all ages to interact and socialize with our law enforcement officers. All proceeds from the week will go towards scholarships for students pursuing a degree in the field of law enforcement or a similar field of study.

If you are interested in becoming a Leadership Partner, which includes top-tier membership and competitive perks, contact Amy Cope at acope@kearneycoc.org.

Our current Leadership Partners are: