by Emily Reneau, President & CEO, Atascadero Chamber
On August 28th, the Paso Robles, Atascadero and Templeton Chambers came together to bring the North County community the State of the North County. This informative progress report from community leaders provided local economic updates affecting our North County businesses and residents focusing on Workforce Development. The event outlined challenges facing our local businesses and helped to provide solutions through awareness. Challenges included finding and retaining talent, lack of affordable housing for employees and availability of jobs for head of household spouses relocating to the area, to name a few. The North County Chambers are working with our county school officials and economic development agencies to address these challenges. Presentation videos and slides from the event are available here.
Approximately 50 people filled the Caladero Room in Atascadero for OUR Diversity Council’s first event on the evening of September 12th. Many Voices / Our Atascadero featured four (4) diverse North County leaders as speakers on the importance and benefits of a diverse workplace. Speakers included Justin Gomez for the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Office at Cal Poly who presented Culture Matters: The Business Case for Cultural Intelligence. Maria Garcia, City Council Member from Paso Robles and founder of the Hispanic Business Chamber spoke on the importance of all (young and aging) getting involved and having a voice in their community. Mark Lisa, CEO of Twin Cities Hospital spoke to health care practices being equal to everyone in order to create a healthy community. His ongoing theme was that “everyone bleeds red”. Rabbi Janice Mehring from Congregation Ohr Tzafon in Atascadero addressed the need for all faith based groups to work together as is their mission. The Council and the Chamber staff were thrilled with the reception of the audience and look forward to hosting more events to bring awareness on Diversity matters to OUR community.
Three (3) leaders in OUR community are slated for three (3) available seats on OUR 2020 Chamber board of directors; Wendy Lewis, CEO of ECHO, Geoff Auslen, Owner of Glenn’s Repair and Rental and Vino Vice and Amir Sohi, General Manager of the Holiday Inn Express and Suites. Our 360 newsletter this month includes a poll for the general Chamber of Commerce membership to accept these candidates with an option for a write in vote.
I would like to mention again that OUR Bridgework co-working space continues to be a great asset for our city. Our two private offices continue to be occupied and the demand is there for more! There are unreserved and reserved desks available. If you are interested or know of someone interested in this desirable space, please refer them to the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce!
