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Community Builders
Community Builders are a level of Premier Partner businesses committed to improving the area by investing in our programs and events.
MARCH 2021
Letter from the president
CHAMBER NEWS
Membership Matters: SEO Chamber Faces
CHAMBER EVENTS
Internship program training
ChamberChoice Luncheon
Golf Outing
Upcoming events
Apply to be a speaker
PROGRAM UPDATES
Why Women Connect?
Leadership FMWF
POC: Two-year reflections
MEMBER NEWS
Members
online
CONTENTS
podcast
• Episode 9:
Corporate culture with Kurtis Karn
Culture is one of those buzzwords you hear a lot, but what is company culture really? For Kurtis Karn, WEX Health Inc., culture is woven into every aspect of a workplace. Listen in as we discuss exactly how culture plays into talent attraction and retention, how it affects your bottom line, what employees are looking for, and how job-seekers can find the role that fits them best.
Listen at fmwfchamber.com/podcast
MISSION
The Chamber promotes economic growth and prosperity for business and its members through leadership in advocacy, education and engagement
VISION
The Chamber is the leader in ensuring the growth and prosperity of our regional business and members
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Establish the region as a full-service metropolitan marketplace.
• Be a bold voice for business through strong thought leadership and a rich policy agenda.
• Build a place of belonging to best serve members’ interests.
Board of Directors
Chamber Staff
The power of connection and community
Throughout my life, I have had so many mentors that have shaped the way I think, the way I act and the way I lead. These mentors have been men and women, older and younger, similar and diverse backgrounds. One thing that each and every one of them has believed in is the power of investing in others. I have instilled this into my personal core values. I believe in empowerment. I believe that the best thing you can do for someone is to not only believe in them, but have the courage to invest in them.
I share all of this with you because I know one of the greatest assets of a chamber is our ability to bring people together to invest in others – to invest in our future. Our Chamber already has some great programs like Women Connect, Leadership FMWF and the Young Professionals Network that leans into professional and personal development. I am excited to announce that in the future, our team at The Chamber will lean even more into spaces that will push the status quo, will create even deeper connections and allow for greater impact on people’s lives.
As I have been analyzing our current programs and gathering insight from our members and stakeholders, I have come to realize that not only do we have opportunities, but we have a unique responsibility to focus even more on these areas: enhanced and targeted women’s leadership programming; diversity, equity and inclusion conversations, training and programming; business mentorship; and increased, intentional student engagement within our companies and our communities.
The future of The Chamber and this region is exciting and dynamic, but in order to truly achieve ultimate success, I am encouraging— no actually, I am challenging you to get involved with us. I have witnessed first-hand that when dedicated people find passion in the work we do and get involved, we experience unimaginable results.
If this has piqued your interest at all, let me know. We have great opportunities available just for you.
Shannon Full President & CEO Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce
WTH is SEO?
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. In short, this is the process of enhancing your website to gain traffic from search results (such as Google!). There are many factors that can go into achieving your desired result— including simply being a Chamber member and your listing in our online directory!
This works because Google prioritizes search results for companies that have more mentions and content on your own website, and on others. The more places that link to you, the better!
Want
to learn even more?
“I signed up with The Chamber a couple years ago. With their MIC, it’s actually led to one of the best-performing and highest traffic sources to my website, according to my Google Analytics.”
Patrick Metzger PM and Associates
Questions or comments?
What does your Chamber membership have to do with it?
Because your business name and website are included in our directory, your business will benefit from more search results, and ultimately, traffic to you.
We want to help you update, enhance and maintain your listing. You can add unlimited keywords, a 1,600-character description, photos, a video, highlight links, and add company representatives that will all add to your overall SEO.
“By being listed in The Chamber’s online membership directory, and linking back to my website, my local SEO has gone up without me paying for Google Adwords. Being a member helps my brand and my visibility to new clients! Thanks to The Chamber, my last two clients searched for graphic design in Fargo, and chose me.”
Sue Skavlem Skavlem Designs
Reach out to your Chamber membership team by calling 218.233.1100 and check out the Member Information Center to ensure you are maximizing this benefit!
Make sure to visit The Chamber’s social media for a video from Sue about this benefit!
STRATEGIC BUSINESS INSIGHTS FROM ALERUS
FINDING THE RIGHT FINANCIAL PARTNER
Owning or running a business is a thrilling but stressful endeavor. Long hours, few peers, and knowing other people’s livelihoods depend on you can cause many sleepless nights. Add in the false expectation that a business leader should be an expert in all areas of business and the pressure can be overwhelming.
The truth is, owning a business does not automatically make you a financial expert, a payroll professional, or a benefits specialist. That’s why it is critical to work with partners who are experts in those areas, letting you focus on doing what you do best. Look for a financial partner who can provide:
Experienced, dedicated guidance
Business owners are constantly stretched thin, so the fewer meetings and phone calls needed, the better. Find a financial partner that can provide you with one point of contact for streamlined service and individualized guidance. A business advisor can help anticipate needs, coordinate additional expert insight, and provide strategic guidance to help meet your specific goals. With a holistic view of your business and long-term goals, they can provide recommendations that support the overall financial health and success in addition to meeting short-term needs. Perhaps most importantly, an advisor is there when you need them, because your business is just as important to them as it is to you.
Diversified services and capabilities
Financial service needs change as businesses grow and evolve. There are benefits to be gained from working with a provider who can meet your evolving needs, from
short-term financing to succession planning and employee benefits plans to payroll processing. Not only is it more efficient, it can also be more cost-effective to work with one vendor rather than several. And with a dedicated advisor’s guidance, you can rest easy knowing your business’ best interests are top of mind.
A bank’s size also dictates its capabilities, so make sure you are working with a provider who can meet your specific needs. A very small bank may not be positioned to service your request, whereas an extremely large bank may see your business as insignificant. As a result of the pandemic, some lenders may be overleveraged in certain sectors and unable to service solid opportunities in those areas. Make sure your financial provider’s capabilities and service offerings match your business’ evolving needs.
Shared values
One of the best aspects of ownership is you get to choose who you do business with. Banking relationships can last decades, and the right advisor becomes as emotionally invested in your wellbeing and success as you are. Choose a provider who truly cares about you, your employees, and your community. Banks can be more than a business. Those that value doing the right thing, respecting everyone, serving with passion, and embracing change can be catalysts for economic development, community champions, and dream makers — helping you succeed while strengthening the entire community together.
Find a partnership that helps your business take flight. Visit with an Alerus business advisor today.
Meet the Chamber staff—Your Events team
Tracy Powell Director of Events & Programs
What we do:
Develop, plan and execute 12 signature events along with the Business Training and Women Connect programs.
Interesting fun facts
Bobbi Jo Rehder Events Coordinator
Fun event facts
What we love about our roles
Together, Bobbi and Tracy have 40+ years’ experience. They each have held the same three positions in their years at The Chamber. They both started out at the front desk, then transitioned into working with the Ambassador team and now work together on events.
Most memorable moment
Planned and executed the largest Chamber event in history when Rachel Hollis was featured at the annual Women Connect celebration in January 2019 with 4,000 in attendance.
• A memorable torrential downpour at Oxbow Country Club during the 2015 Chamber Challenge Golf Outing.
• Last year was the first year we have had to cancel an event due to weather.
• One of our annual Women Connect speakers, Fawn Germer, who was from Florida wanted to experience a few of the things the community offered during the winter months, so Bobbi and Tracy organized a little ice fishing expedition and also tried a little curling. The trip wasn’t complete without a trip to the woodchipper!
• The Women Connect name was designed during a brainstorming session on a bar napkin at the Radisson.
• The friendships and connections that have been made over the years.
• The challenges and variety that each and every event offers.
• It is rewarding to see members networking and connecting with each other through events.
• We are privy to quality local speakers through our trainings—we have amazing local talent in our community!
• We are honored to work with our Business Training and Women Connect committees; they are invaluable resources to our programming.
At YWCA's Women of the Year Awards Voices of Vision 2017 Chamber Challenge Golf Outing
Women Connect 2016
Meet a board member
Jodi Duncan
President, Flint Group
joined the board: 2014
As president of Flint Group, I oversee day-to-day operations, health of the business, team and cultural excellence, strategic planning and business development. We also recently acquired Ladyboss Midwest that roles up to Flint Group as a business unit.
What do you like best about serving on The Chamber board?
I have learned so much from serving on the BOD and met many incredible people. The Chamber is deeply involved in the success of businesses in our community and dedicated to ensuring we have a vibrant and active business community. Serving on the Board opened my eyes to all of the great work our Chamber does. Prior to being on the Board, I was less aware of how successful our Chamber is and what an incredible resource they are for our businesses.
How else are you involved around the community?
One of our company values at Flint is to give back. I am most involved in United Way and will be chairing the 2021/2022 campaign. We do a lot with Special Olympics and support Fans in the Stands for the summer games, which is one of my all-time favorite things to do. Our team also works closely with The Arts Partnership, advocating for arts in our community.
Meet a committee chair
What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
Over COVID, we decided our nest was too empty, so we got a puppy from 4 Luv of Dog. She is keeping me busy and entertained. I also run most mornings with my friend, which we consider five miles of therapy!
What’s your best piece of advice for future leaders?
If you want to be a leader and want to change something, you need to come with solutions. Once you dedicate yourself to solving issues and stop complaining, you will be invaluable to your employer. It’s a much better feeling being part of the solution rather than perpetuating the problem.
What would you like others to know about the work of your committee?
The Women Connect committee is dedicated to bringing women together for important conversations that impact our professional and personal lives. We’re always looking to learn more about the topics that women in our community want to hear about. And, we want to lift up as many new voices as we can. If you have an idea, please reach out.
What do you like most about being involved with The Chamber?
Over the years, I’ve been a Chamber member as part of a large organization, a small organization and as a solopreneur, and I’ve found value in every one of those roles. I’ve made deep professional connections from getting involved in The Chamber.
What is the best professional advice you have ever received?
Start every day with gratitude. It paves the way for the best possible day.
What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
I’m an avid learner/reader and I’ve been a part of a book club for more than 20 years. My newest obsession is soup-making. Weekly soup deliveries to my parents and my in-laws have helped us feel connected while we’re keeping distance due to the pandemic.
Next internship training cohort launches in April
This internship training program has been designed as a hands-on, interactive educational experience where you can expect this nine-week, seven-part, virtual training series to equip you and your organization with the tools necessary to develop, grow or enhance your own internship program. The training series will be offered through live virtual sessions.
Session topics & training dates
• Training 1: Introduction to Total Internship Management, April 6 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Training 2: Organizational Readiness & Team Commitment, April 13 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Training 3: The Intern Work Plan, April 20 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Discuss & Reflect with Dr. Shindell, April 27 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Training 4: Effective Recruiting & Onboarding, May 4 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Training 5: Selection & Training, May 11 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Training 6: Transitioning to “What’s Next” & Assessment, May 18 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Training 7: Wrapping Up | Putting it All Together, May 25 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Discuss & Reflect with Dr. Shindell, June 1 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.
COST: Chamber member: $215 | Non-chamber member: $250
Building Successful Internship Programs is now launching a new method to receive the training!
Sign up today for access to all training information and navigate through the program individually and at your own pace!
COST:
Chamber member: $160 Non-chamber member: $200
What did participants in the first training say?
Building Successful Internship Programs has been great so far. The resources they provide are worth it alone. The facilitator does a great job keeping everyone engaged and the discussion topics are beneficial. I would recommend this to anyone whose organization has an informal internship program or doesn't have an internship program.
What you’ll receive
• Access to all training content for one year
• Two supplemental books:
• Total Internship Management: The Employers Guide to Building & Sustaining the Ultimate Internship Program
• Total Internship Management: Supervisors Handbook
I was able to participate in the FMWF Chamber Internship Training program in early 2021. Even in a virtual format, the information was engaging and helpful as we seek to create a more robust internship program at Wanzek Construction. The content shared in the training combines workforce data and program framework backed by research to help employers deliver a meaningful internship program that benefits both the employer and the intern. Whether you’re an employer looking to host your first intern or looking to grow an already established program, I would highly suggest attending this training.
• Additional training webinar: Internship Legal Update
• Prepared binder with all supplemental documents and guiding content *only for cohort style training
Building Successful Internship Programs is presented by The Chamber and Intern Bridge, and brought to you by the financial support of Fueling Our Future.
Registrations close Monday, April 5.
Learn more and sign up at fmwfchamber.com/ internship-development
Highlights from the 2021 Economic Outlook
Two recent events have no doubt shaped the current climate of our community, state and nation. We dove into these at last month’s Economic Outlook event. Joining us for a virtual discussion, two experts presented on data and trends, and offered analysis and insight to those in attendance.
Rob Engstrom, chief political strategist, American Bankers Association, and founder, Wolfe Street Partners, provided an overview of the past, current and future political climate and discussed how it affects economic climate.
Engstrom described election cycles and how just decades ago, Congress was close to a governing middle and compromise was possible. Now, the middle represents more of a Q-tip, and fewer races are competitive. “Our country has gone through what I call a protracted period of disruption,” he said. “People in the business community need certainty…in our politics that goes beyond our last four years and our recent and current administrations.”
Engstrom also stressed the importance of understanding the impact of federal policy in local communities, which can range from a talent pipeline and infrastructure funding. “It’s imperative that the business community, in a non-partisan and bi-partisan way, assert clarity and assert their voice in primary elections,” he said.
Despite the challenges we face and a political climate that remains bitterly divided, Engstrom said he is bullish in what the future looks like.
Ron Wirtz, regional outreach director, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, presented on data collected from Minneapolis Fed surveys, including unemployment, labor force participation, revenue trends, recovery levels and more. He also discussed covid-related impacts on business and how the supply chain has been affected.
In terms of employment, North Dakota did not see the same dip as Minnesota, but had a much flatter rebound. “While there are some positives in the economy, this is one that is worrying because the trajectory for getting back to pre-pandemic levels is really soft,” he said. However, there is some optimism as active cases decline and the vaccine makes its rounds.
“I would be hesitant to say that we're almost on the other side of this, because there have been so many changes and so much volatility,” he advised. “Be careful of taking that exhale. What we have to think about is how do we build the base higher to get to the other side, we are ready for launch.”
SPONSOR
Thanks to these local restaurants for participating in our gift card offer for all attendees!
• Boston's Pizza
• Buffalo Wings and Rings
• Fargo Cork'n Cleaver
• Legends Sports Bar and Grill
• Luna Fargo
• Ole & Lena's Pizzeria
• Pepper's Sports Cafe
• Sol Ave. Kitchen
• Space Aliens Grill and Bar
• Spicy Pie
• The Boiler Room
• The Piggy BBQ Restaurant
• Three Lyons British Pub
• Traditions Restaurant & Bar Inc.
• Twist
Marshal Albright, Cass County Electric Cooperative, moderated the event discussion
2021 Chamber Challenge Golf Outing
Wednesday, July 21 Edgewood Golf Course
Get ready for the summer’s annual golf tournament for Chamber members! Join us for fun, networking and friendly competition in the sun!
Entry fee includes 18 holes of golf; cart; food and drinks provided by sponsors on the course; 19th Hole Happy Hour Social (includes heavy hors d'oeuvres); on-course contests and giveaways from sponsors. Then stick around for the 19th Hole Happy Hour Social at the clubhouse after the tournament! Awards will be given for men’s and women’s team best score, and individual prizes for closest to the pin and longest drive.
Sponsors and golfers are invited to get creative! The best themed golfer and Tee Box sponsor will be named at the awards presentation following the tournament. You pick your own theme!
—Individual Rates—
Don’t have a team of four? Register as an individual and we’ll pair you up with other players. It’s a great way to build relationships and your network.
On or before June 1
$125 Per Golfer-Chamber Member
$175 Non-Members
After June 1
$135 Per Golfer-Chamber Member
$175 Non-Members
Sponsorship opportunities are available. For information and options, contact Darren at 218.359.0514 or ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com.
Registration is now open at fmwfchamber.com.
—Team Rates—
Get your clients, co-workers and friends together and network the afternoon away on the golf course with a four-person team.
On or before June 1
$500 Foursome-Chamber Members
$700 Non-Members
After June 1
$540 Foursome-Chamber Members
$700 Non-Members
LEADERBOARD SPONSOR
#FMWFGolf
Business After Hours
Thursday, April 8 | 4 to 6 p.m. | Delta by Marriott Fargo
Get ready to network again, because Business After Hours is back this April! Social distancing and limited capacity are at the top of the list to keep you safe. Three separate rooms will be open at the Delta, with themes, vendors and amazing hors d’oeuvres in each. Stay tuned for details about how to win a small business support package, valued at $500.
Interested in exhibiting? Booth spaces are now sold out, but you can sign up to get on a waiting list!
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
• Vendors will be placed 6 feet apart in each room
• Capacity will be limited to 200 at a time in each room
For more information, contact Bobbi Jo at 218.359.0525 or brehder@fmwfchamber.com
• There will be sanitation stations and masks available
• We will conduct extra sanitizing of restrooms, touch points and public spaces throughout the event
• Hand sanitizer will be available at the registration table and at every vendor booth
Voices of Vision
Wednesday, August 25 | Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Delta by Marriott Fargo
This year marks the 11th anniversary of The Chamber's Voices of Vision event, and we’re pulling out all the stops. This year’s speaker is Admiral William McRaven, U.S. Navy veteran and author of Make Your Bed speaking on “Leadership and Risk Management: Taking Command.”
If you're interested in sponsorship opportunities, contact Darren Dunlop at ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com or 218.359.0514
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Business Training
Axe These Axioms: Break the Old Rules and Thrive as a Modern-Day Marketer
Wednesday, March 10 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Holiday Inn Fargo and livestream
By 2007, the way people interacted with content, technology and brands changed. Facebook was open to the general public. Google kept growing YouTube as the world’s second-largest search engine. Netflix started streaming content. And we engaged with all this from a device that fits in our pocket. More than 10 years later, marketers and professional communicators still cling to rules and practices—axioms—from a different era, which continue to seem more distant every day. This presentation will refute several common marketing conventions still held by many.
Leading with an Entrepreneurial Mindset
Wednesday, April 21 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
DoubleTree by Hilton and livestream
Eggs & Issues
Agriculture’s
Economic Impact
Tuesday, March 2 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. | L ivestream
The world has changed in ways that now requires everyone to think and act like an entrepreneur. An entrepreneurial mindset shifts our perspective in a way that exposes opportunities, ignites ambition and fosters innovation. And, in today’s rapidly changing world, an entrepreneurial mindset is essential for both individuals and organizations to adapt and thrive.
Chamber 101
Connect. Engage. Maximize. Two options to register in April!
• In person: Tuesday, April 20 | 4 to 5 p.m. | The Chamber office
• Virtually: Thursday, April 22 | 9 to 10 a.m. | Zoom
If you’re not familiar with The Chamber, are a new member, new contact, new hire, or just want to reengage with us, this session is for you! Chamber 101 is a laid-back discussion designed to share some of the great benefits of Chamber membership and what opportunities exist that you need to know.
Casey Sanders, The Chamber's manager of membership, will walk you through events, programs, discounts, online tools and more, so you can begin maximizing your membership right away. It's a great way to get introduced to what is available.
The economies within our Fargo Moorhead West Fargo metro are heavily impacted by agriculture, but by how much? The phrase “agriculture is the backbone of our economy” is often said, but how do we know this? To what degree does the agriculture industry impact our state and local economies? Join us at this Eggs & Issues to hear from prominent leaders across various sectors of the agriculture industry as we answer these questions.
Our Refugee Workforce
Tuesday, April 6 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. | Courtyard by Marriott and livestream
Refugees are critical to our area’s workforce, economy and community. Both state departments in North Dakota and Minnesota are integral to our state’s success in resettlement, as well as our local workforce in their hiring practices, and local non-profits in their support. Join us for a robust conversation centering around current resettlement practices for refugees in our area, and what we can do to assist in creating community and filling jobs.
Jason Jacobson H2M
Bree Langemo Concordia College
Dr. Greg Lardy NDSU | Moderator
Dr. Bryon Parman NDSU Barry Batcheller Appareo
Amy McBeth BNSF
Drew Combs North Dakota Trade Office
Mike Arntson Cardinal Glass Industries
Anisa Hajimumin Minnesota DEED
Chris Jones North Dakota Department of Human Services
Laetitia Mizero Hellerud New American Consortium for Wellness and Empowerment
Adam Broers Bethany Retirement Living
Get ready to take the stage — Apply to speak at a Chamber event!
Go ahead; be brave! We’re looking for presenters at Business Training and Women Connect events for The Chamber’s upcoming fiscal year. Tell us your big ideas, proven successes, tips and tricks or inspirational message, and you could be chosen to speak to a crowd of local professionals. We welcome experienced speakers and brand-new voices alike. Applications will open soon!
Applications received by May 31 will be considered for the 2021–22 calendar of events
Learn more at fmwfchamber.com/call-for-presenters
What we’re looking for:
• Diverse thought leaders and professionals who can command a stage and inspire others
• Interactive and energetic presentations with practical takeaways that others can use
• Innovative ideas and strategies around leadership, skill development, workplace topics or women’s empowerment
What do our speakers get?
• Exposure: A room full of engaged business professionals will hear your message
• Promotion: We’ll share your session and bio online, on social media and in print to thousands
• Credibility: Position yourself as a thoughtleader in your area of expertise
• Training: Dale Carnegie is offering 1.5 hours of coaching for any speaker. Learn to elevate your confidence, engage the audience and review best practices.
Questions?
Contact Bobbi Jo at 218.359.0525 or brehder@fmwfchamber.com
Women Connect
Tales from a Recovering Jealous Female
Tuesday, March 23 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Avalon Events Center and livestream
We hear and see a lot about women supporting other women. But there’s just something about the woman who appears to “have it all’ that can sometimes fill us with the green-eyed monster we don’t care to acknowledge. As a recovering jealous female, Nicole Turchin acknowledges the downward spiral that can happen when women focus on pushing other females down instead of raising them up. At this session, Nicole will inspire you to recognize that a change in mindset and in life is possible, and how we can use others to become better leaders.
Mindful Self-Compassion:
The Science Behind Being Kind to Yourself
Tuesday, April 27 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Avalon Events Center and livestream
Mindful self-compassion is a tool and a skill that can be taught. Self-compassion is the relationship we have with ourselves, and is often the motivation behind failure or success. Learning how to be kind to yourself is a tool that you can take with you the rest of your life. Self-compassion decreases anxiety and depression and increases overall mental health and well-being.
YPN Book Club: Podcast EditionJocko Podcast
Wednesday, March 24
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Virtual via Zoom YPN will be staying digital for our March book club discussion. Join us as we center our discussion around the Jocko Podcast. Jocko Willink is a decorated retired Navy SEAL officer and author of “Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALS Lead and Win.” The conversation will be around episodes: 114, 115, 118, 192, 219 and 221. Episodes can be streamed on Apple, Spotify or from the Jocko Podcast website jockopodcast.com.
Professionals of Color
Discuss, Connect & Reflect
Wednesday, March 17 | Noon to 1 p.m. | Virtual
Join us for another great Discuss, Connect & Reflect as we now highlight a new podcast series, The Diversity Gap! We will discuss the first episode, Increasing the Volume of Your Action, presented by Kay Fabella, who specializes in helping underrepresented minorities leverage their unique stories for social impact and cultural change.
Find Increasing the Volume of Your Action with Kay Fabella wherever you listen to podcasts, and come ready to discuss.
Networking Before 9
Thursday, March 25 | 8 to 9 a.m. | Virtual
Join us for what is sure to be a great, entirely virtual, Networking Before 9! Through breakout room options, you’ll be able to have multiple great conversations in smaller groups to get to know everyone on the call. We look forward to you joining us!
Young Professionals Network
Micro Off the Clock
West Fargo Thursday, March 25
5:15 to 6:15 p.m. | West Fargo location TBA
Downtown Fargo Wednesday, March 31 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. | Downtown Fargo location TBA
Are you ready to ease back into inperson events? YPN is bringing inperson events back, on a smaller scale! Join fellow YPN members for a smaller version of our networking happy hours! Sign up for the day and area of town that works for you and look for the YPN table tents. This will be a great way to connect with a small group of YPN members while staying safe and healthy!
Location details will be sent in the registration confirmation. No charge to attend, but registration is required.
Corporate Cup SPOTS STILL AVAILABLE!
There are spots still available for the 2021 Corporate Cup! Protocols will be put in place to ensure the safety of all participants. These protocols will be changed and updated as required by the current state of the pandemic in May.
• Participants will be asked to be masked when moving between events.
• Teams will be encouraged to stay 6 feet away from other teams.
• Equipment will be sanitized between each game.
• Participants will be asked to use hand sanitizer before entering their court/playing field.
• Most events are already planned to take place outside, but all events may be moved outdoors if needed for fresh air.
• Only participants will be allowed at the event.
Nicole Turchin BNG Team
Melissa Dahl Mindful Healing & Consulting, PLLC
Announcing the 2021 Women Connect Celebration speaker… Mel Robbins!
Tuesday, June 29 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Delta by Marriott
Join us in the seventh anniversary of Women Connect at this special event with the most-booked female motivational speaker in the world! Delivering this year’s keynote message is Mel Robbins, serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, internationally recognized social media influencer, and one of the most sought-after motivational speakers in the world. One of the world’s leading experts on behavioral change, Mel Robbins’ research and tools have helped millions of people overcome procrastination, self-doubt and anxiety.
About Mel Robbins
Mel Robbins is the host of the new daytime syndicated talk show, The Mel Robbins Show. She has spent the past decade coaching, teaching and motivating millions of people around the world. Her practical, no-nonsense advice and life strategies provide tangible results and skills that help people push through the everyday challenges we all face in life, work and love.
She is the most-booked female speaker in the world and an international best-selling author. In 2017, Mel broke selfpublishing records with her international best-seller, “The 5 Second Rule.” It was named the #1 audiobook in the world and the fifth most-read book of the year on Amazon.
She is the creator and host of three #1 audiobooks on Audible and the co-founder and CEO of 143 Studios. In January 2019, a quarter of a million people took part in her free 30-day Mindset Reset program online. Her social media platforms inspire more than 60 million people, and her TEDx talk “How to stop screwing yourself over” is one of the most popular of all time.
Follow Mel on Twitter at @melrobbins and learn more about her at melrobbins.com
WOMEN CONNECT ANNUAL CELEBRATION PRESENTED BY
Registration is now open at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.
“Your life is defined by the gap between what happens to you and your reaction to it.” – Mel Robbins
“The 5 Second Rule is a simple, one-size-fits-all solution for the one problem we all face—we hold ourselves back. The secret isn't knowing what to do—it's knowing how to make yourself do it.” – MelRobbins.com
Mel Robbins, author of
‘The 5 Second Rule’ to keynote Women Connect Annual Celebration
Why Women Connect?
Women Connect is a vital extension of The Chamber’s mission to build a place of belonging and serve members’ interests. This program brings women together to intentionally build connections and explore what courageous leadership means both personally and professionally. Monthly events are targeted to the needs of professional women, carefully planned by a committee. Monthly charity partnerships encourage donations from attendees to further impact our community. And, the PUSH program allows women to meet in smaller, intimate groups in their own time outside structured events. Women Connect goes beyond events; it provides a place for women to find their purpose and grow together.
Don’t take our word for it!
Here’s
what other are saying:
Women Connect is a monthly event that is not (and cannot) be matched in our community. Each month, hundreds of women look forward to spending an afternoon listening to a new speaker presenting on topics ranging from overcoming self-doubt and owning your own wealth to work-life fusion and the importance of self-care. As a young professional juggling a career, relationship, philanthropy efforts and much more, this event is often the only time of the month I get to slow down and do something just for me. Without this program, my commitment to personal and professional growth wouldn’t be possible.”
Alexandra Floersch, Bell Bank
My experience with Women Connect was life changing. The application process was easy, the speaker support was phenomenal, the venue fully supportive of their mission to connect women. Ironically, my topic—Self-Doubt—created a lot of self-doubt leading up to the event. When I say, life changing,’ I conquered a fear of speaking publicly, but made significant relationships with other women going through difficult seasons of life. Their feedback is the gift that will continue forever. Sharing experiences and stories is not easy—especially on a stage. Women who attend these events will undoubtedly leave stronger, more knowledgeable, empowered and connected.”
Briana Scearcy, Stoneridge Software
Women Connect is such a valuable asset to the Fargo Moorhead community. Female professionals within Eide Bailly enjoy hearing from local speakers and leaders and making valuable community connections. But most important, Women Connect allows our professionals to talk about topics that impact their daily lives and pushes our professionals to explore leadership in a courageous manner, both personally and professionally. For an organization who prides itself on creating an environment where all staff have equal opportunity to succeed, this is a great program that helps us accomplish exactly that. Programming like this is essential to shaping female leaders who will then impact our community, region and metro. We are honored to support Women Connect.
Chad Flanagan, Fargo Eide Bailly
I’ve attended Women Connect events since the beginning and found them to be inspiring and impactful. When I was asked to be a part of the Women Connect committee, I jumped at the chance. Not only was I excited, but honored. Being a part of the committee allowed me to help choose event speakers and topics that would inspire and empower women, based on feedback we obtained. Being a part of planning and seeing these events come to fruition was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career thus far, all because I would walk into each event and there was the positive energy of women meeting for the first time, sharing stories and ideas, connecting one another and helping one another in their careers and personal lives—THAT is powerful.
Carrie Carney, Eventide Senior Living Communities
Health, wellness, and a meeting with the mayors
February’s Leadership session focused on community and personal wellness. The day started with a physical wellness focus with Michelle Cody and Allison Grippe from Fly Fitness, who led the class through a chair yoga session. Elizabeth Magee, Blue Cross Blue Shield, also presented on mental wellness and the important of self-care.
After the first portion of our morning focused on personal wellness, we switched to a focus on community wellness. The panel was comprised of local organizations that have helped in the global work to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Greg Kempel, MinnDak Market; Sarah Greterman, Aldevron; Kim Peterson, Lillestol Research; and Jennifer Bredahl, Vitalant, offered great insight on the decisions and transitions that took place to put them in a position to be a community leader in this space.
Celebrating two years of POC
It’s been two years since the launch of the Professionals of Color (POC) program, and what a great two years it’s been! Take a look at what POC has become and where we plan on taking it in the future.
Mission statement: To impact the FMWF community by creating inclusive opportunities for Professionals of Color to develop personally and professionally through meaningful engagement and a sense of belonging.
Over lunch, the class streamed Business Training with Patrick Metzger, PM and Associates. After, Crystal Nelson from Fargo Ergonomics joined us for a presentation on ergonomics, both at the office and in the makeshift home offices that many participants have made in the last year.
The day ended with our annual meeting with the mayors, where the class was joined my Mayor Tim Mahoney, Fargo, Mayor Bernie Dardis, West Fargo; Mayor Kory Peterson, Horace; and newly appointed Mayor Shelly Carlson, Moorhead, for a conversation on community leadership. Thank you to all of our speakers for taking time out of their day to join our session!
POC PROGRAM PILLARS
Get ready… Applications for the 2021–22 Leadership class open April 1!
Learn more and apply by May 14 at fmwfchamber.com
• Networking: Social events to provide members opportunities to interact and develop connections.
• Professional development: Learning and development resources members can apply to their daily work.
• Education: Opportunities to learn more about the diverse populations in our community and help educate our greater community the importance of embracing DE&I initiatives.
• Service: Philanthropic opportunities for members to serve in our community.
The Professionals of Color program has been dedicated to providing spaces for members to actively engage with one another in an impactful way. To this extent, POC hosts two events each month:
• Networking Before 9 to provide opportunities for members to develop professional relationships.
• Discuss, Connect & Reflect, which serves as an opportunity for members to engage in meaningful conversations with each other focused on either a book or podcast.
Professionals of Color has also taken steps to develop community-wide education programs to help promote, train and foster diverse, inclusive and equitable workplaces through:
• The launch of a new community resources page focused on the topic of diversity, equity and inclusion.
• The launch, and completion, of a free six-session training program, Building Inclusive and Equitable Workplaces.
As we look to the future, we have big goals in mind to continue impacting not only our members, but also our greater community:
• Launch a mentorship program to connect POC members with regional college students.
• Expand the number of impactful POC networking, professional development and service opportunities provided.
• Launch additional community-wide education programming and resources.
Welcome to the following businesses who joined The Chamber in January! We thank each of them for their support in our mission and investment in their business and community. Please consider doing business with other Chamber members first.
Day Dental Implants & Dentures
daydentalfargo.com
Dentists & Orthodontists, Dental Specialists
General dental practice with an emphasis on implant and dentures.
Mindful Healing & Consulting
themindfulhealing.org
Health Care Services
Mindful Healing & Consulting offers Professional Counseling Services in the Fargo Moorhead community. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practices.
Ackerman-Estvold
ackerman-estvold.com
Engineering
Ackerman-Estvold is a North Dakota headquartered consulting firm providing Civil Engineering and Architecture services to public and private clients throughout North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana and Idaho.
ICS
ics-builds.com
Consultants & Construction Management
At ICS, we specialize in providing innovative facility solutions that help you plan, build and operate your building well. Our customized services integrate the planning, funding, construction and ongoing operations of your facilities as we help you throughout all phases of a building project.
Thomas Beadle
treasurer.nd.gov
Government - Relations
Thomas Beadle is the current treasurer for the State of North Dakota.
Replay Games Downtown Fargo
replaygames.us
Retail - Stores/Ecommerce
Replay Games is Downtown Fargo’s only customer supported video game store and arcade. Featuring thousands of games ready to play across 40 years of gaming history from Nintendo Switch to Atari 2600. If it involves video games, we want to be a part of it.
University Vacuums
facebook.com/UniversityVacs
Vacuum Cleaners
Sales and service of new and used vacuums for commercial and retail use.
Off Color Media
offcolormedia.com
Photographers/Videographers
Professional video production team. Social media driven advertising, elevating brands, people, businesses and places. Jay Evans and his team believe in creating meaningful imagery and ads with businesses who believe in investing in themselves.
Red E LLC
gorede.com
Engineering
In a sea of engineering companies, Red E stands out with an ability to deliver in all aspects of engineering, program and technical requirements. Our goal is to help you be successful, because we know that your success is our success. Trust, confidence, and integrity are important to us. We want our customers to know that when we say we will deliver on something, we will deliver better.
CoreCounts LLC
corecounts.com
Business Services
CoreCounts is one tool to help you define, measure, train and grow your culture with purpose. It is a continuous performance management tool built for top-performing companies. This tool will increase and measure employee engagement and retention. The four steps to getting results: 1) Mission & Values, 2) Gather Data, 3) Train your Team, 4) Grow your Culture!
Congrats to these members for celebrating the following milestone Chamber anniversaries this month!
25 years
Mark R. Jung, DDS, P.C.
20 years
Glass Doctor of Fargo-Moorhead
15 years
Habitat Restore
J & M Printing
The Evergreens of Fargo
The Evergreens of Moorhead
10 years
Advanced Striping and Seal Coating
Apex Engineering Group
Chuck E. Cheese’s
Fargo Cork’n Cleaver
Hi Ho Burgers & Brews
Newman Quality Fences
Old Broadway
Pepper’s Sports Cafe
Shaggy’s Dog Wash & Grooming
Thomsen Homes, LLC
Wired Up!
5 years
CoBank, ACB
New American Consortium for Wellness and Empowerment
Northridge Properties
Tharaldson Ethanol Plant 1 LLC
Wagner Window Cleaning LLC
Charlie Lindberg
Jara Enger
Downtown Community Partnership Announces 2020 Broadway Monument Award Winners
The DCP announced the 2020 Broadway Monument Award recipients. This award is presented annually to community members and organizations who have demonstrated outstanding service to Downtown Fargo through the giving of their time, talents and resources to further the goals and objectives of the DCP. The 2020 award recipients are: James Gilmour, director of strategic planning and research at the City of Fargo; Ron Ramsey, associate professor of architecture at NDSU; and Community Champion US Bank, accepted by Darin Daby, regional president.
Eide
Bailly
Ranks
on Top 100 Internship List and Vault’s “Best to Work for”
Eide Bailly has been ranked No. 18 in Vault’s 2021 Top 100 Internships rankings. Vault surveyed thousands of current and former interns about their internship programs. Vault’s 100 Best Internships reflect the highest-rated internship programs across the survey pool. In addition, Eide Bailly was ranked No. 6 for Best Accounting Internships, No. 10 for Best Internships for Diversity with Respect to Women, and No. 11 for Best Internships for Quality of Assignments.
Eide Bailly also ranked among the top 10 firms in several categories under Vault’s “Best to Work for” listings including best for Client Interaction and Internal Mobility.
EHP Performance is now open as a Medical Fitness Facility
EHP Performance, formerly EHP Crossfit in Moorhead, has opened their doors to new members as a Medical Fitness Facility. This has been a longtime goal of owner Karla Wolford. What’s the difference between a gym and Medical Fitness Facility? EHP Performance prescribes exercise and a healthy lifestyle modifications to achieve optimal health instead of prescription drugs and medications.
Fargo Jet Center Flight School Soared to Record-High Training Accomplishments in 2020
Fargo Jet Center’s flight school reached a total of 5,059 training hours, including 2,980 hours of flight training and 2,079 hours of ground training in 2020. These numbers are up 36% from 2019, which had a total of 3,711 training hours. In 2020, FJC’s flight school had a total of 161 students with 60 flight training accomplishments. The flight training accomplishments include 26 first solo flights, 22 private pilot certificates, and a mixture of advanced ratings and certificates including instrument, multiengine, commercial pilot, certified flight instructor, and multi-engine instructor.
MinnKota Secured Document
Destruction achieves certification from NAID
The National Association for Information Destruction (NAID) has recognized MinnKota Secured Document Destruction with its “AAA” Certification for the 17th consecutive year. NAID’s “AAA” certification recognizes MinnKota for undergoing an audit and meeting all requirements for the security measures of its facility, employees, transportation vehicles and processes, including the actual destruction of documents. MinnKota also has an endorsement from NAID for Hard Drive Destruction and Non-Paper Media Destruction.
ND Bonding Bill Ensures Commitment to FM Area Diversion Project
The Metro Flood Diversion Authority, together with Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney and West Fargo Mayor Bernie Dardis, thanked legislative leadership in North Dakota for their innovative approach to funding major infrastructure in the State, specifically their commitment to the FM Area Diversion Project (Project). With the introduction of House Bill 1431, related to bonding, in the North Dakota 67th Legislative Assembly, $435.5 million in additional funding is specifically identified for the Project.
NDSCS Graduates Report 97 Percent Placement
North Dakota State College of Science’s 2020 Graduate Placement Report has revealed that 97% of the college’s 2020 career and technical education (CTE) graduates are employed or continuing their education. Of the 31 CTE programs, 21 reported 100% placement. The beginning average annual salary of a 2020 graduate is $39,480. Sixty-eight% of the employed graduates are employed in the state of North Dakota, finding employment in 27 of the state’s 53 counties.
The NDSCS Graduate Placement Report is compiled each year by the NDSCS Student Success and Career Services office.
New Hires & Promotions
Advanced Business Methods
Matthew Tangen, Customer Service
Representative
Allegro Group
Phil Kornachuk , Managing DirectorLeadership Development
Anne Carlsen Center
Dr. Myra Quanrud, FT Medical Director
Appareo
Kari Flaagan, Digital Marketing Specialist
Matt Garberg, Manufacturing Assembler
Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices Premier Properties
Brian Johnson, REALTOR®
Connect Interiors
Michael Murphy, Operations Manager
Dakota Plains Realty
Svetlana Meadows, Realtor
Dawson Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company
Jess Cossette, Client Coordinator
Kelli Emerson, Client Advocate
Jessica George, Client Advocate
Sina Sarabakhsh, Client Advocate
Michelle Socia, Client Executive
Chris Strautz, Business Insurance Marketing
Specialist
Caitlin Yeado, Client Representative
Emerging Prairie
Rep. Cynthia Schreiber-Beck , New Board
Member, Grand Farm
Mark Watne, New Board Member, Grand Farm
EPIC Companies
Nick Giobres, Construction Manager
Charlie Muus, Vice President of Building Operations
Essentia Health
Hallie Tiffany, NP, Pediatric Hospitalist
Fargo Rentall (Tents and Events Rentall)
Ashley Morgan, Sales Representative
First International Bank & Trust
Michelle Kommer, New Board Member
First Western Bank & Trust
Kelsey Plante, Human Resource Officer
Friendly Smiles Cosmetic
Dentistry
Dr. Emily Miller, Associate Dentist
JOHNSON
SARABAKHSH
Houston Engineering, Inc.
Jakob Ebinger, Engineer I
KLJ
Cindy Quibell, Project Control Specialist
KW Inspire Realty
Cody Elhard, Realtor
Heidi Kotchian, Realtor
RyAnn Manney, Realtor
PARK CO., REALTORS®
Emma Wold, Accounting Coordinator
Southeast Human Service Center
Dr. Tom Seymour, New Board Member
Want to see yourself
Email your company or people news to us at thebridge@fmwfchamber.com or visit fmwfchamber.com/member-news.
Please
Sterling Management, LLC
Ranae Aakre, Senior Manager of Quality
Assurance & Risk Management
Erica Chaffee, President
Matt Katzenmaier, Director of Construction
Mason Kossan, Real Estate Financial Analyst
Ingrid Scantlebury, Chief of Staff
West Fargo Public Schools
Brittnee Nikle, Director of Human Resources
Widmer Roel
Scott Fossum, Audit Manager
Danny Franco, Audit Associate
Jarrett Galbreath, Audit Supervisor
Jennifer Gerlach, Senior Audit Associate
Rebecca Smith, Senior Audit Associate
Renelle Thomas, Senior Audit Associate
YHR Partners, Architects
Adam Pangrac , Partner
Recognitions & Certifications
Collins and Krank | Raymond James
Jeffrey M. Collins, financial advisor, member, 2021 Executive Council
Town & Country Credit Union
Melissa Kellerman, Branch Manager 32nd Avenue, Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor
Stacia Sanders, Financial Services Officer, 52nd Avenue, Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor
Kirsten Solway, Assistant Branch Manager Eagle Run, Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor
The importance of men championing women at work
By Jodi Duncan, President, Flint Group
Many women will tell you; they already have a tough hill to climb, and 2020 simply made it worse. The past year will pile on to an already challenging environment and present new challenges. For example:
• It is estimated that four times as many women than men dropped out of the workforce in September 2020. That’s roughly 865,000 women compared to 216,000 men.
• CNBC estimated in November 2020, nearly 2.2 million women left the workforce between February and October 2020.
Additionally, men already outpace women in leadership positions by a significant margin. Men and women have vastly different experiences when it comes to work and leadership. Ask any woman in a leadership position and you will hear consistent themes of what was different for her compared to her male colleagues. Many obstacles are self-imposed resulting in a mindset where “women feel they must be 100% qualified to apply for a position while men will apply if they are 60% qualified.” The bar is set differently for women. The expectations are different for women. Judgement is different for women.
Consider this, “men are judged based on their potential; women are judged on their past performance.” Countless studies show how women are judged more harshly than men when it comes to business, employment, and leadership. Where men need to consider competency and masculinity, women have a plethora of relevant and non-relevant criteria that come into play. Appearance, clothing, weight, hairstyle, are evaluated very differently for women than men. Furthermore, women are often doing the “judging” of other women so this isn’t a “men versus women” problem. It’s an “everyone” problem
About the author
As president of Flint Group, Jodi Duncan has a 10,000-foot view of business and the ability to identify where and how it can grow. She is a strategist and communicator known for solving complex challenges. She also is a leader, fostering a fast-paced, challenging work environment that (the right) employees thrive in. She leads by example, working alongside the Flint team pushing for each client’s success. Always pushing for the best, Jodi’s extensive marketing and business background drives Flint Group to discover what sets clients and industries apart – applying knowledge and insights to generate effective communications solutions for clients.
How do we fix it?
• Understanding and talking about gender barriers and considering solutions for your business is a great place to start. Honestly evaluate your organization on this. It’s easy to assume it’s not an issue. There are countless articles and resources available to help you evolve your company.
• Consider implementing leadership development programs for women in your organization.
• Think like a parent of daughters. Research shows that both male and female leaders that have daughters are more likely to champion gender diversity.
• Invite women into the conversation. It can be challenging for some women to jump into a male-dominated conversation for a variety of reasons including a simple, biological factor of having a quieter voice.
• Ensure your Board of Directors has balanced representation that includes women. Women accounted for less than 20% of board positions in 2019. Women bring a unique perspective to male dominated boards especially in business. Non-profits typically have a higher number of women serving on their boards.
• Men in the workplace need to support women’s professional growth. Many men want to champion women, but they aren’t sure how. If you sincerely want to know, ask another woman you know in a leadership position. Most are more than willing to support your effort.
• Women need to support women. Far too often women spend energy on tearing other women down. This makes us all weaker. Empowered women empower women.
Read the full version of this guest article on The Chamber blog at fmwfchamber.com/blog.
Are you a Chamber member and want to submit your own guest post? Find guidelines and instructions on the “write for us” button at fmwfchamber.com/publications
Bismarck
Minot
Wahpeton
Williston
Tell us about the history of your city. Hawley went through several name changes until 1872, when it was named after Thomas Hawley Canfield, an officer with Northern Pacific Railway. Hawley was originally settled by a colony of immigrants from Yeovil in England, which is about 130 miles from London.
What kind of growth have you seen throughout recent years in your community?
Hawley’s location along Highway 10 has served it well attracting new businesses and families. With proximity to outdoor sports and the lakes area, Hawley is a natural home for outdoor enthusiasts, and Hawley Golf and Country Club is one of the best courses in our area.
Hawley hosts 124 successful small businesses, featuring commercial and industrial success stories. The business climate is only getting better, with new incentives in place and shovelready lots available in great locations. Hawley is only minutes away from Fargo (and Hector International Airport) as well as Interstates 29 & 94.
Hawley’s schools are among the highest-rated in Minnesota—a state known for great schools. This is part of the attraction for young families moving to Hawley.
HAWLEY
What
makes your community unique?
Remember the town you grew up in? Hawley is still that town. Hawley has stayed small enough to stay safe and friendly, but still has something for everyone. There are several restaurant choices, great parks, wide streets—and Hawley is one of the few places left where you can build a brand-new home just a short walk from K-12 schools. Hawley hosts its own golf course, frisbee-disc course, and miles of walking/biking paths.
What issues are city leadership paying close attention to right now?
Hawley continues to focus on economic development (for both new and existing businesses) and improving the quality of life for our residents. Hawley is continually adding options for highspeed Internet service, improving services (like our fire hall facility), and modernizing our infrastructure.
What success and challenges have you faced in recent years?
With many new families and new businesses calling Hawley “home,” expectations are higher than ever for bigger-town amenities and stores, like a local hardware store, pizza delivery and a sports bar-like hotspot.
What is your vision for the future of your city?
Hawley will continue to grow—and yet remain the kind of place you’d love to raise kids or start that new business.
How do you partner or work collaboratively with other nearby communities?
Hawley often shares emergency services with our neighboring communities.
What is one thing you most want others to know about your community?
Everything is closer in Hawley— closer families, closer outdoor activities, closer neighborhoods and a closer school family.
Anything else we should know?
We recently updated our website, which now includes a 360-degree “bird’s eye view” of Hawley, showcasing our great neighborhoods and school. Check it out at CloserInHawley.com
MAYOR: James Joy | CITY CLERK/TREASURER: Lisa Jetvig
ENGINEERING CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE SOLUTIONS IS OUR JOB. BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES IS OUR PASSION.
ULTEIG ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS
Ulteig works in the Lifeline Sectors of power, renewable energy, water, and transportation, but our passion lies in strengthening the communities we serve. Whether it’s a new roadway or windfarm, substation or water treatment facility, we take our commitment to improving, maintaining, and revitalizing essential infrastructure seriously. Because we don’t just engineer sophisticated infrastructure solutions, we help to build stronger, safer, cleaner, and healthier communities. START YOUR NEXT PROJECT WITH ULTEIG.
PEOPLE’S CHOICE
CHI Friendship is a nationwide leader in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities, and in 2020, Chamber members voted them the People’s Choice award winner.
CHI Friendship has been providing individualized support to people with disabilities since opening in 1974. They encourage people to live life just like everyone else, including living, working and connecting with their community. This work allows for people to have more control and choice in their lives. In Fargo, Friendship has four group homes and several apartment settings where people may be supported 24/7. They also provide vocational services, assisting people to work and volunteer.
The mission at CHI Friendship calls for employees to “make the healing presence of God known in our world…” Healing comes in a variety of sizes and actions, and can be individualized or company-wide. Healing or a sense of well-being occurs when a person supported finds the job they’ve been looking for. Healing occurs when we sit down to ask someone how their day is going. It can occur when a person supported is fully included into a group, congregation or a community. Living out their mission is a continuous journey for CHI Friendship.
In 2020, Friendship witnessed many accomplishments across the organization. The year was filled with rights being reinstated for many people, dreams coming true, organizational changes, remaining active and connected during COVID-19, and so much more. Their dedicated staff have done an incredible job at doing what needed to be done while strengthening their programs and services.
Community employment is a focus at Friendship as they believe all people they support can work and should have the same opportunities for employment. Educating business owners on the benefits of employing people with disabilities has created several long-standing jobs with area businesses.
“Partnerships and education have led to meeting the needs of both parties by filling vacant positions with an untapped workforce,” said Dori Leslie, president of CHI Friendship.
Friendship also promotes inclusion within our community. They are often educating others in the area of developmental disabilities. Friendship has partnered with local colleges, schools and other community organizations to educate others about the field of developmental disabilities. The organization has a strong awareness of community needs. They teach staff and people supported to contribute to their community, which paves the way for important relationships. Some of their community involvement includes United Way Day of Caring, Boy Scouts, holiday parades, backpack drives, volunteering at Bluestem concerts, donation drives, and hosting blood drives.
In turn, Friendship relies on donations to continue carrying out their work. Giving Hearts Day is one such opportunity. Support on this day helps increase the quality of life for people with disabilities and helps people achieve their goals and dreams. Thanks to donors, they can make sure everyone remains safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reflecting on the last year, Leslie said: “Despite all the challenges throughout the year, Friendship has never been stronger – thanks to our staff, parents, guardians, board members, team members, community members, business partners, donors and friends. I have never doubted that we would persevere and prosper the way we did, thanks to all of you! The year 2020 has been a test for us all and Friendship is an organization that is built on a bedrock of faith, which remains a guiding light for us all.”
Looking forward, Friendship will continue to pioneer creative, individualized services for each person they support. They will identify ways to continue to positively impact each person they support with the highest quality, and continue to do the good work that began so many years ago.
Family Guardian Picnic
You
Indigo Signs (formerly Indigo Signworks) was founded in 1996 by a passionate group of sign professionals dedicated to bringing a reliable local source of signage design, manufacturing, installation and service to the Red River Valley region. In the almost 25 years of service to our local communities, Indigo Signs has grown to over 140 employees in seven offices spanning the upper Midwest, serving our regional clients.
We have the largest staff of any sign company in the area, with offices in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, Minneapolis, Alexandria and St. Cloud. Our products are fabricated right here in Fargo, along with Minot and Minneapolis. Our installation and maintenance crews cover the upper Midwest states, including North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, Western Wisconsin, and Eastern Montana.
Matt Brasel, General Manager ND Region
What makes your business unique?
Having a single source for all your signage needs reduces your stress and hassle completing your project on time and on budget. So, you can focus on what is important: your business. From interior signs to large pole signs, we have you covered with the most effective sign solutions.
We strive for excellence in all aspects of our working lives, from design, fabrication techniques, installation and service work. The commitment to excellence is shown through various awards Indigo Signs has received over the years ranging from Sign Builder Magazine Sign of the Year to Fargo-Moorhead Addy Award Winner for Best Sign Design.
We love sharing the cool things Chamber members are doing! We’re looking for more businesses with an interesting history, cool story or just doing something spectacular. Tell us who deserves to be featured—you can submit your own company! Send us your suggestion at bit.ly/BridgeSpotlight or email ahuggett@fmwfchamber.com
What initiatives are you focusing on right now?
In 2020 Indigo Signs was focused on four critical initiatives: talent acquisition, manufacturing strategy, national/regional account growth & rebranding all of Indigo Signworks. Although COVID-19 challenged all organizations to change and adapt on the fly at a moment’s notice, we stayed committed to always learning, innovating and growing to provide world-class customer service to our customers.
Fast facts
• Total employees: 142
• Office locations: Fargo, Grand Forks, Bismarck, and Minot in North Dakota; Minneapolis, Alexandria, and St. Cloud in Minnesota
What is one thing you most want others to know about you?
Community stewardship – After spending the past 10 years in Kansas, it is great to return to the ND/MN area, where I was born and raised. During my 37-year career in the sign industries, it has been paramount to give back to all the communities these organizations have been a part of.
Community involvement and stewardship helps us all to develop the next generation of leaders and innovators.
• Year founded: 1996
• Company awards: Fargo-Moorhead Addy Award Winner for Best Sign Design, Sign Builder Magazine Sign of the Year
Program & Event Sponsors
Thank you to all of our sponsors that make The Chamber regular events and programs possible.
BUSINESS TRAINING
PROGRAM SPONSORS
EGGS & ISSUES
PRESENTING SPONSOR
WOMEN CONNECT
PROGRAM SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Forum Communications Printing
Minnesota State Community and Technical College WEX Health, Inc.
EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR
PROGRAM SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Bremer Bank | Choice Bank
First Western Bank & Trust
Houston Engineering | KLJ Engineering
Midwest Radio of Fargo Moorhead
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Moore Engineering | ROERS
Super Studio | Ulteig
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
LEADERSHIP FMWF
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK
PROGRAM SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
Gate City Bank
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Bell Bank | Choice Bank
Eventide Senior Living Communities
First Western Bank & Trust | Gate City Bank
Microsoft | M State | Office Sign Company
Otter Tail Corporation | Rasmussen College
Sanford Health | Vogel Law Firm | WDAY
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. | Western State Bank WEX Health, Inc.
EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR DESSERT SPONSOR
PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR
PRESENTING SPONSORS
PROGRAM SPONSORS PUBLIC
PROGRAM SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
PROGRAM SPONSOR
PROGRAM SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Dawson Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency
Essentia Health | Midco
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
MILITARY AFFAIRS
PROGRAM SPONSOR
CARING FOR WOMEN AT EVERY AGE
Trusted care for every age and stage of life. When it comes to gynecological care, it can be hard to know what’s normal and when it’s time to ask a compassionate provider. From periods to menopause, our women’s health teams are here to answer all your hard to ask questions.
Women’s health care like nowhere else.
Daughter – Sister – Friend – Grandma