What’s your definition of “Partnership?”

I’m not sure there’s only “one” right definition.

To the Chamber, it has many different prongs or facets. Right off the top of my head, Dunkin’ Donuts comes to mind.

This is a business that is constantly visible in everything we do, and this is not exaggerative. This business is involved in ribbon cuttings, orientations, networking events, seminars and Chamber perks!

Just this past month, they partnered with First National Bank USA to provide coffee and donuts at the August Perks.

Their one-year anniversary in LaPlace was celebrated a couple Saturdays ago. Thanks to those of you that came out to support their celebration.

It’s inspiring and contagious to see the drive and dedication from the owners, managers and staff. They are constantly asking for opportunities to partner with businesses to help support the community and market their services.

If you haven’t visited them yet, stop in to meet them.

You’ve hopefully read the recent articles regarding our revamped Education committee, now known as the Workforce Development committee/taskforce — still in its growing phase but with a more defined purpose on focusing on filling workforce gaps between supply and demand.

St. John Parish School Superintendent Kevin George is reaching out to the general/business community and local elected leaders to discuss an upcoming effort to begin “Patron Tours” of every school in St. John the Baptist Parish.

This is an opportunity for you to see first-hand how the schools have improved and get a new perspective on what education looks like today in our public schools.

We need your help to redirect the past perception and observation of public schools in general.

Yes, we all see and hear the negative of what’s happening. It seems to be our human nature to be directed to that not-so-good image. We don’t give enough attention to the POSITIVE that’s taking place. And we wonder why the world has become so glim year after year after year.

We don’t live in a perfect world. I believe our task is to help make a positive difference in hopes of making it better for those to come after us.

We need your participation to help make this effort a productive experience.

An organizational meeting will be held at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 17 at the South Central Technical College campus in Reserve.

Please RSVP your attendance to Stacey Waller at swaller@stjohn.k12.la.us. We invite you to take a proactive step forward to be a part of this positive movement in your community.

Everyone has something to offer, regardless of how small you may think it is. Every piece is a part of building that puzzle.

Sincerest thanks to the following members that attended Friday’s orientation: Branden Collins Bail Bonds, Leblanc Wealth Management, Mullin Landscape Associates, LLC, St. Pierre Services and Well-Ahead La Region 3. Extra special thanks to Technical College Dean Penny Freeman and Ambassador Chair Michelle Millet for their participation in helping these new businesses get acclimated to the Chamber.

As mentioned in a previous article, the Chamber’s Membership Directory & Community Resource Guide is in the planning phase of being updated. Not only will this publication serve as a great marketing tool for Chamber members, but will also serve to promote the services and amenities of the Region as a whole.

We want local industry and businesses to share this with employees passing through that may want to know more about the River Region. Where to eat, where to shop, or where to live. If you’re not a member yet, but want to have your business included in the guide, contact the Chamber today to get signed up.

Also, if you’re a current member, are you using the new mobile member app?

Contact Janine at the Chamber to find out how to get access. This is an added new benefit to help keep you connected with the who and what with your Chamber.

Have you liked us on Facebook yet? Help us reach 1,000!

Thank you to our past and current members for believing in the mission to “Grow, Strengthen and Unify Businesses in St. James, St. John and St. Charles parishes.” We look forward to helping you grow!

Chassity McComack is executive director of the River Region Chamber of Commerce. Email her at Chassity@riverregionchamber.org or log onto riverregionchamber.org.