In time for Small Business Week, the region’s chamber added a much needed vehicle to assist with distributing and collecting member information as part of upcoming strategic plan.
The COVID-19 crisis has put a focus on the important role small business plays into a community and support is more crucial then ever. Finishing out their 106th year of service, The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce announces the purchase of a much needed resource. As they continue developing the 2021 strategic plan, the region’s chamber kicks off National Small Business Week by sharing news of the purchase of a 2017 Buick Encore. This addition will mobilize chamber efforts as well as further connect the chamber team to the community and assist members.
Prior to the pandemic, The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce Board members had approved the purchase of a reliable vehicle to relieve staff and volunteers from using their own transportation to haul equipment, boxes of collateral and tow the digital billboard. While restrictions were in place, directors worked remotely with Barlow Buick GMC of Manahawkin to arrange for hitch installation and graphic design to be added by Coastal Sign & Design in time for the summer season. The vehicle hit the road in June, spending the summer following safety protocols while checking in on members, picking up material to stock the Visitor Center, dropping off Land & Sea Guides, Chowder Month collateral and other seasonal items. “The chamber strategy for the upcoming year is Commerce & Community” stated Jerry Thompson of the Van Dyk Group, who serves as a Southern Ocean Chamber officer and heads up the Strategic Planning Committee “We are looking to extend the chamber’s outreach in many new ways.
The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce represents hundreds of local businesses and non profit groups. Founded in 1914, it has continuously served community and is the accredited Destination Marketing Organization and Shop Small Champion. All are invited to take part in virtual Small Business week events, in person meetings, and Chowder Month all happening in September. For more information go to www.visitLBIregion.com, call 609-494-7211, visit their information center at 265 W Ninth Street or tune into their weekly radio show and podcast, the LBI Region Report, on WBNJ FM. Follow on social as @LBIregion @southernoceanchamber
