I had the opportunity—thanks in no small part to the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) and the Central Louisiana Economic Development Alliance (CLEDA)—to attend the two-day ACT Work Ready Academy in Little Rock this past week.  The purpose of the Academy, the third of four to be held this year, was to continue expounding on best practices for the groups leading efforts back home to have their community (county or parish) certified as a “Work Ready Community”. 

As the team leader for the efforts of Natchitoches Parish, it is vital that I attend Academies and I am so glad to have had the opportunity to attend and catch up with my peers around the country working on their certifications as well.  

I worry when in a group of 60+ participants only three represent Chambers involved in this effort.  I worry because so many communities—small towns spread across rural parishes (and counties)—need a strong, independent voice to address the needs of the community as a whole.  Unfortunately, they simply do not have it.

To succeed, today’s Chambers evolve to maintain their relevance.  There is nothing wrong with that.  For us in Natchitoches, we have moved aggressively in directions where we could serve the community, with one of those being education.  Who else has “Lead a Work Ready Community Initiative” on their to-do list?  No one.  Who should?  Well, that is arguable.  However, what is not arguable is the need to successfully implement a strong, relevant and needed program like this in Natchitoches parish and someone has to pick this up and run with it to ensure that happens.  I am proud our Chamber leadership sees this as an opportunity not just to serve, but also to provide a meaningful role in moving our parish forward.

Our Chambers should not be falling to the wayside around the country.  Local leaders, whether in the role of staff or volunteer Board members, must stand up and recognize the value a Chamber—as an independent organization with the power of its membership, with no geopolitical boundaries—in affecting positive change.  Someone has to address the many programs and initiatives.  Often, the Chamber is best for that role.  When there is not a chamber, many times that program simply does not happen and that is not a healthy direction.  Support your chamber locally and remember support is not sympathy.  Support your chamber for taking a strong leadership role and your chamber will be best able to support you and your community.

Learn more about the Work Ready Community initiative at our press conference on Tuesday, September 8 at 3pm at the Chamber office located at 780 Front Street, Suite 101 in Natchitoches.  Alternatively, you can visit www.WorkReadyCommunities.org for more details.

As always, thanks for reading!
Tony