The SLO Chamber is excited to announce that we were recognized for two of our programs by the Western Association of Chamber Executives, an organization encompassing hundreds of chambers across the western United States. We received an Outstanding Program award for the 2021 Cracking the Government Code program and an Honorable Mention for our monthly e-newsletters. The awards took place at W.A.C.E.’s annual conference, which was held in February in Glendale, Arizona.
“We put a lot of time and creativity into Cracking the Government Code and our monthly newsletters,” said Chamber President and CEO Jim Dantona. “It is such an honor to be recognized, especially for two programs that helped us connect, inspire and inform during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.”
The SLO Chamber launched the five-month series, Cracking the Government Code, in May of 2021 to increase understanding of civic processes & elevate dialogue around critical issues. The interactive, fast paced and informative sessions featured subject matter experts and were designed to give participants answers about the way local government works. Since completing the program, one attendee was appointed to a City Council vacancy, three attendees have applied to sit on Advisory Bodies throughout the County, and the Chamber has seen an uptick in our own committee applications from program participants.
Chamber staff worked tirelessly to design and implement the series during the pandemic. “Government is at its best when people with a vast array of experiences can get involved and share their perspectives — but it can be hard to know where to start and what you are really getting yourself into,” said Molly Kern, Director of Governmental Affairs. “Cracking the Government Code was designed to teach community members how to get involved in local decisions and advocate for positions that matter to them all while maintaining a job, family and life.”
Cracking the Government Code session recordings can be purchased online for those that were unable to attend.
The Chamber e-newsletter is a monthly email that goes out to thousands of subscribers. It concisely shares Chamber news, upcoming events, networking opportunities, information about local elections and candidates, and more. The award was rated for its professional look, content, readability, and headlines.
“Our e-newsletters are the most efficient way to stay in the loop about Chamber happenings,” said Jacqui Clark-Charlesworth, Director of Communications. “In just a couple minutes, readers get all the need-to-know information that month including upcoming events, our legislative efforts, business resources and more with the opportunity to dive deeper into any of the stories.”
Members can sign up to receive our monthly e-newsletter by emailing [email protected].
We are grateful to have been recognized amongst so many outstanding chambers and look forward to continuing to work shaping this place we love by connecting the business community with ideas, inspiration and each other.