Corridors - May 2024

Corridors MAGAZINE

In this issue: Member Articles, Annual Awards Gala, Nonprofit Spotlight, Legislative Corner, Educational Corner, and more!

May 2024

CONTENTS 5 MEMBER OF THE MONTH ROBIN GOLEMBIESKY

13 AFFINITY PARTNER CORNER

18 2024 PNRC ANNUAL AWARDS GALA

3 PRESIDENT MESSAGE 4 WEEKLY NETWORKING 6 WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP BRUNCH 7 POP-UP GOLF 22 WHAT IS SELF-CARE 25 MAY LUNCHBOX SESSION 26 AFTER HOURS EVENT 27 WORK-LIFE BALANCE IMPACTS YOUR WELLNESS 30 BURNOUT AND BUSINESS OWNERS 33 REP. SCIALABBA’S FAMILY FIRST INITIATIVE EVENT 35 LEGISLATIVE CORNER 37 EDUCATIONAL CORNER

14 NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT HOPE HAVEN FARM SANCTUARY

40 THANK YOU

Thank you to Chad Isaiah Studios for the cover photo.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

FROM the PRESIDENT In April, I officially announced my retirement as president of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber. It will be effective later this summer. It was a bittersweet moment for me. It’s exciting because I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and on the things that I love. Bittersweet because this organization has been a huge part of my professional life for many years – even before I took on this role. I have developed so many wonderful friendships and connections over the years for which I am truly grateful.

Since stepping into this position in 2014, we have made great strides together. Working closely with the boards, committees, and membership, we have increased our size, geographic footprint, and most importantly, our impact.

I am immensely grateful for all the help and support that I have received over the years.

For my past and present “small but mighty” staffs - You are or have been the engine that powers the chamber. We would not be the organization we are today without your contributions. Your passion, dedication and drive took us to heights that few other staffs could dream of achieving.

To our Board of Directors, present and past, I want to thank you for your commitment to serve and lead the chamber in addition to being leaders in your careers and businesses. I appreciate the hours you give to be the voice of our membership, lead committees and be our best brand ambassadors in the community.

Finally, I want to thank all of you – our members - for your trust in me and my team, your support through countless hours of volunteering, generous sponsorships, and commitment of your expertise and talent. We are nothing without a strong and dedicated membership. You all are the best of the best.

Thank you again for all the support and friendship over the years. I may be retiring but I’m not going anywhere. I’ll still be in Cranberry Township and plan to attend events as a community member and proud supporter of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber.

Sincerely,

Jim Boltz

President, PNRC

PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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2024

ber m a h C e r on th e t s i g e r ere to h k c i l C

Wednesday, May 1st 11:30a - 1p Tequila Jalisco - Gibsonia 5517 William Flynn Highway Gibsonia, PA 15044 Thanks for attending!

Every Tuesday, 11:30a - 1p @ Discovery Christian Church in Mars

Every Friday, 7:30a - 9a @ Panera Bread in Wexford Want to present at a Connections Meeting?

Email Kelvin Mack

ndar e l a C s Event

Thursday, May 23rd 8a - 9a Virtual via Zoom Celebrate Women in Business!

Sign up HERE for the Zoom link Presenting Sponsor:

Wednesday, May 15th 5p - 7p Dented Keg 700 Adams Shoppes Mars PA 16046 Register HERE

Zoom link for all virtual meetings will be provided after you register on the event page. Thanks to the generosity of WesBanco Bank’s Cranberry Township Branch, we are able to provide virtual networking events.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Robin Golembiesky PNC Bank

“When I first met Robin, I remember thinking how genuinely friendly she was. She immediately engages whomever she is speaking with, giving her full attention, asking open-ended questions because she really wants to know more about you and your business. Robin has been instrumental in working with new small businesses in the area, guiding them through the banking process and connecting them with services, members, and tools they need to be successful. She thoughtfully introduces these business owners to the Chamber, so that we too can help connect them to the community and build their brand. Robin’s warmth, professionalism, knowledge of business banking, and leadership skills set her apart as a rising star in our Women’s Leadership Roundtable Program. She is truly a blessing to anyone she meets.”

-Denise Martin, PNRC Director of Partnerships and Development PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Register Here PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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COMMUNITY BUILDERS Thank you to our Members who have generously contributed to furthering the mission and vision of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber!

2 Krew Security & Surveillance A Comfort Service Advantage Energy Partners, LLC AdVenture Development dba McCandless Crossing AJ Technology Group Alliance for Nonprofit Resources Anchor Wave Internet Solutions Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry Arvos Schmidtsche Schack, LLC Ashton Commons Assisted Living Locators North Pittsburgh Atria at Cranberry Woods Atria McCandless Axis Business Consultants Baierl Auto Group BDS Supply Chain Bethany Christian Services of Western PA Bill Few Associates, Inc. Borough of Seven Fields Boy Scouts of America - Laurel Highlands Council Bridge Home Realty Bruster's of Ingomar Butler County Symphony Orchestra C. W. Howard Insurance Agency, Inc. CHROME Federal Credit Union Clean Express Auto Wash Clearview Federal Credit Union - Wexford Cole Management, Inc. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving Community Park Storage Concordia of Cranberry Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh North Cranberry Highlands Golf Course Cranberry Messenger Service Cranberry Public Library Cranberry Supply Co. Cranberry Township Cranberry Twp. Volunteer Fire Company Cranberry Village Estates Cremation Society of Pennsylvania - Pittsburgh Crisis Center North, Inc CTR Payroll Services Dairy Queen - Cranberry Dented Keg Brewing Company Dillon McCandless King Coulter & Graham L.L.P.

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Diversified Plan Services Inc Drayer Physical Therapy - Cranberry Early Years Community Learning Centers ECCA Payroll+ Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Harmarville Express Employment Professionals Fairfield by Marriott Pittsburgh North / McCandless Crossin Fairground Market, Inc. Farmers National Bank of Canfield First City Company-McIntyre Square First Commonwealth Bank - Wexford Flowers by Gerard Franklin Inn Mexican Restaurant Fun Fore All Family Fun Park General Rental Center George A. Reed Agency, Inc. Glade Run Foundation Goddard School - Wexford Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center Green Apple Barter Guardian Storage- Hampton Guardian Storage- Marshall Guardian Storage- Ross Twp. Guardian Storage- Seven Fields Hand & Shoulder Center Handel's of McCandless HEARTH Herbein + Company, Inc. Highmark Caring Place Hill, Barth & King LLC Holsinger Home2 Suites by Hilton Pittsburgh/McCandless House of 1000 Beers i.e. Insurance IMA | ESS Instant Imprints Izzazu Salon, Spa & Blowout Bar Jason's Deli- Cranberry Twp Joe Palmieri Construction, Inc. Juniper Grill Kontos Mengine Law Group Kress Restoration Limbach Company Lisowski Tree Service and Landscaping,LLC Living in Liberty

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

COMMUNITY BUILDERS Thank you to our Members who have generously contributed to furthering the mission and vision of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber!

Lou Negley's Bottled Water Inc. Lutheran SeniorLife Mark Mashuda Excavating Inc. Masonic Village at Sewickley McCandless Corporate Center McCandless Floral McGuire Memorial Foundation Medicine Shoppe of Ingomar MHY Family Services MOD Wash - Wexford Mr. Electric of Cranberry Township Myers, Patsy & Associates, LLC NexTier Bank Nexus Financial Network, LLC North Hills Family Dental North Pittsburgh Greeting Company Northland Public Library Nothing Bundt Cakes - Cranberry Oliver Outdoor OMEGA Federal Credit Union- North Hills OMEGA Federal Credit Union- Wexford Organic Remedies, Inc. Owl Cleaners Inc. Penn National Insurance Pennsylvania House of Representatives Perform Physio, LLC PetSuites Cranberry Township Phelps Nursery PGH, North Inc. Piatt Sotheby's International Realty Pittsburgh Business Times Pittsburgh Jet Center Pittsburgh Job Corps Pittsburgh Post-Gazette PNC Investor Center - Wexford Polesky Agency, Scott Berney - Erie Insurance Pressley Ridge Print Tech of Western PA Priority2Work Pursuit R.M. Stoof & Associates Inc. Realty ONE Group Gold Standard Restart, Inc Restore It Rex Glass & Mirror

PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

Richard Goettle, Inc. Richland Mall Ridge Insurance Agency, Inc. Riverview Carpet & Flooring, Inc. Rose E. Schneider Family YMCA Ross Township Rossman Hensley, Inc. Rt 228 Auto Mall S & T Bank- Cranberry Township Salem Media Group Sam's Club Scolieri-Beam Law Group, PC Seneca Valley School District SERVPRO of Southern Butler County Sherwin-Williams Cranberry Signature Settlements Services Agency Skander Tire Service, Inc. Special T Electronics Specialized Staffing and Industry Recruiters, Inc. SportClips SSB Bank St. Barnabas Health System Staples-Cranberry Twp. Star Limousine Service Inc. Strutz International Terry's Plumbing, Inc. The Arc of Butler County The Blessing Board The Block Northway The Haven at North Hills The Haven at North Hills The Lighthouse Foundation The Payroll Shoppe The Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School The Thrasher Group, Inc. The Waters of Wexford The Woodlands Foundation Three Rivers Paintball, Inc. Tierra Realty Management Toplak & Associates TownePlace Suites by Marriott Township of Hampton Treasure House Fashions

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COMMUNITY BUILDERS Thank you to our Members who have generously contributed to furthering the mission and vision of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber!

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Thank You

Trib Total Media Two Men and A Truck Ultimate Granite Surfaces, Inc. UPMC Passavant Urish Popeck & Co. LLC USX Federal Credit Union Vector Security Vincentian Vitalant (Central Blood Bank) Vogel Disposal Service, Inc. Vrabel Plumbing Company, LLC Wain Landscaping, LLC Walnut Grill Wexford WesBanco Bank - Perry Highway West Penn Multi-List, Inc. Wichman Landscape Construction, LLC Wiest Asphalt Products & Paving Inc. Williams Industrial Sales Wine Concrete Products Inc. Win-Son Inc. Your CBD Store - Shaler Your CBD Store- Gibsonia Your CBD Store- North Hills

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

The Business Case for Going Global By: Ryan Russell, Director of the U.S. Commercial Service Pittsburgh Office If your trusted business advisor told you to disregard 95% of your potential customers possessing roughly 3/4 of your customer base’s potential buying power, how would you react? Understandably, most executives would question the wisdom of that advice. Yet, if your company is not thinking about exporting to international markets, you are overlooking significant growth potential and opportunities to strengthen your firm’s competitiveness.

Why Grow Global?

With many of your potential customers and revenue streams located outside of the U.S., international markets offer a wealth of potential. Here are four reasons to grow a global company: 1. Mitigate Risk. The same principles that apply to your investment portfolio hold true with international sales – diversify to mitigate risks. In fact, companies that sell internationally grow faster and are 8.5% less likely to go out of business than those that focus solely on domestic sales.

2. Exporting drives innovation. Exposure to international customers’ needs and challenges and global competitors helps companies to drive innovation and maintain their competitive edge.

3. Increase the value of your company. Selling globally can also increase the value of your company to potential investors. Demonstrating that your solution has global demand—and that you have a path to capitalize on those opportunities—can increase the attractiveness of your firm as an investment-worthy enterprise.

4. “Made in U.S.A.” brand recognition. International customers recognize and seek U.S. products and services for their quality, innovation, and value. Our region’s unique strengths (workforce, research, and technology) are among the many reasons why Pennsylvania exporters strengthen that brand. This U.S. competitive advantage isn’t only for the “big guys” either – 98% of U.S. exporters are small and medium-sized companies and 60% of those have fewer than 20 employees.

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Where to Start?

Pennsylvania companies have a wealth of resources and expertise available to grow globally. At the federal level, our U.S. Commercial Service Pittsburgh Office, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration and the export promotion arm of the federal government, can assist with counseling, market intelligence, matchmaking, and commercial diplomacy via our network of global trade professionals located in more than 180 offices around the world. In Western Pennsylvania, there are also Small Business Development Centers that offer counseling and training, the State of Pennsylvania’s Office of International Business Development works through its 10 statewide Regional Export Networks to support PA companies. We stand ready to help you navigate the global marketplace. Please visit our website (https://www.trade.gov/pennsylvania-pittsburgh) and reach out to our team to start the conversation today.

Ryan Russell is the Director of the U.S. Commercial Service Pittsburgh Office and can be reached at Ryan.Russell@trade.gov or (412) 644-2817.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

PNRC Affinity Partners Program Your Chamber membership is a valuable business tool that is complemented by our Affinity Program Partners who help you to save time and money. Save on everything from payroll to energy and you don’t have to spend your valuable time researching - your Chamber has done it all for you!

PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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Nonprofit

Spotlight

Nonprofit Name: Hope Haven Farm Sanctuary Mission: To rescue, rehabilitate, and provide lifelong care to abused, neglected, and abandoned farm animals while promoting compassionate living through education and outreach. Additionally, we advocate to promote environmental protection by fostering sustainable practices and raising awareness of the interconnectedness of human actions with the well-being of animals and the planet.

Information/Donation Contact: Karen Phillips Karen@hopehavenfarm.org Hopehavenfarm.org Upcoming events: We offer public farm tours weekly May through November. We also offer private farm tours. Special events include:: Garden Tea Party: An elegant fundraising event held in the sanctuary's garden, featuring tea, refreshments, and entertainment.

Kids Camp: A summer camp program for children, focused on animal care, environmental education, and fun activities.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Nonprofit

Spotlight

Vet Camp: A specialized camp experience designed for young kids interested in the veterinary career industry. The camp offers hands-on activities, educational sessions, and opportunities to learn about animal care, veterinary medicine, and related fields.

ThanksLiving Event: A special celebration where turkeys are honored with their own celebratory meal, in contrast to traditional Thanksgiving practices. This event promotes compassion towards animals and highlights alternative ways of celebrating the holiday season.

Trick-or-Treat Event: A Halloween-themed event inviting families to visit the sanctuary for trick-or-treating and animal encounters.

Food Truck Tour: An event featuring a variety of vegan food trucks at the sanctuary, offering delicious plant-based cuisine and supporting local vendors What impact does your organization wish to make in the world?

Hope Haven Farm Sanctuary aims to make a profound impact by not only providing a safe haven for abused farm animals but also by fostering empathy and compassion in individuals towards all living beings. By promoting the understanding of the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the environment, we aspire to create a more compassionate and sustainable world for all.

PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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Nonprofit

Spotlight

What needs would help your organization to put your mission into action?

Our organization relies heavily on the support of volunteers, donors, sponsors, and community partnerships to carry out our mission effectively. In addition to financial contributions, we greatly appreciate donations of supplies such as animal feed, farm supplies, and infrastructure materials. We have a wish list on our website, amazon.com, walmart.com, and chewy.com.

Furthermore, increased awareness and outreach efforts within the community would enable us to expand our impact and reach more individuals in need. Let’s collaborate to help the animals!

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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Presented By:

Thank you to our event sponsors:

Thank you to our Chamber Partners:

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

The 2023 Annual Award Winners

The 2024 PNRC Board of Directors

PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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Women’s Leadership Excellence Dr. Amanda Laichak, Commonwealth Charter Academy

Distinguished Business Fun Fore All Family Fun Park

Young Professional of the Year Maggie Giel-Bovaird, Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Pittsburgh

Bruce Conley Outstanding Volunteer Kathleen Kuznicki The Lynch Law Group

Prestigious Business Leader Julie Campbell, PNC Bank

Nonprofit Excellence So Many Angels

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Jim Boltz, President of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber was recognized for his leadership from local elected officials. The PNRC Board of Directors honored Jim Boltz with the Leadership Impact Award, in recognition of his years of service to the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber.

PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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What Is Self-Care, and Why Is It So Important for Your Health?

By: Shannon Albers, Marketing Manager, Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh

What is Self-Care?

Self-care, a widely discussed topic across mainstream television, publications, and social media platforms, is often centered on activities like indulging in bubble baths, spa treatments, or planning a getaway. However, self-care extends beyond these portrayals.

We often miss that self-care is an umbrella term for simply taking care of ourselves.

This misconception can lead us to believe that we are not “doing self-care right” if we are disinterested in the commonly portrayed self-care practices, are uncertain about what to do for self-care, or believe self-care is unattainable due to financial limitations.

Simply put, self-care is the foundation of wellness and is the key to staying healthy and balanced. It involves doing things to take care of ourselves and avoid feeling overwhelmed by stress.

Meeting Your Basic Needs Is Self-Care Prioritizing the everyday basics of daily life is the foundation of self-care. These basics are vital for maintaining balance within our systems and fortifying ourselves against stress. Since each of us have unique needs and face distinct stressors, the daily activities constituting self-care will vary from person to person. However, irrespective of these differences, nurturing our physical, emotional, and mental well-being remains pivotal for self-care, especially during challenging periods when disruptions to our routine result in heightened stress levels.

Everyday self-care can be achieved by building a general routine of daily activities that support our personal needs. This may include practices such as cultivating healthy sleep habits, maintaining a nutritious diet, taking medication as prescribed, staying hydrated, trying our best to adhere to a schedule for fulfilling responsibilities, doing something that feels enriching, and devising contingency plans for unforeseen challenges.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh can help with medication management, nutrition counseling, yoga for insomnia, and many more counseling, psychiatric, and wellness services. Additionally, if you're struggling to establish a selfcare routine, it could signify that there may be something deeper blocking you from taking care of yourself. No worries, we've got your back and here to support you every step of the way.

Physical Activity Is Self-Care Physical activity is essential for our bodies to function optimally, as it helps maintain balance in our emotional chemical processes. Any activity that gets our bodies moving, even for just 15 minutes, is self-care. Whether it's chair aerobics, tai chi, swimming, tennis, hiking, dancing solo, or spending quality time with our kids and pets, any physical endeavor done for our well-being counts. If yoga and outdoor experiences resonate with you, Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh offers a range of yoga classes and workshops at our Monroeville location, Yoga in the Park in the North Shore, as well as nature therapy offered in any Pittsburgh area park.

Hobbies are Self-Care The important thing about hobbies is that you’re doing something that is enriching for you, that alleviates stress, or helps prevent burnout. It is important to accept that you can do plenty of self-care activities by yourself, and it’s okay if your self-care is something other people are not interested in! Play that video game, crochet outfits for your cat, do a jigsaw puzzle, work in your garden, read a WWII book, watch a Netflix documentary—anything you do for yourself out of enjoyment.

Socializing can also be a great form of self-care, even for those of us who are more “introverted.” Getting coffee with a neighbor, connecting with people in a Facebook group, going to the park or library, FaceTiming with a friend—it’s self care if it is helpful for you.

Rest is Self-Care One of the most overlooked aspects of self-care is ensuring you get enough quality sleep. Just like other self-care practices, sleep needs vary from person to person.

While adequate and restful sleep is crucial for effective self-care, it may not always be achievable for everyone.

PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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It's essential to listen to your body—if you feel the need for a nap, it's likely not a waste of time! Establishing good sleep hygiene, or a consistent sleep routine that supports your well-being, can be challenging for many individuals. If you have difficulty sleeping or sleep too much and there's no apparent physical cause, it could be linked to emotional factors. In such cases, the team at Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh is here to provide support.

Therapy is Self-Care At times, life events or internal struggles can make even the simplest self-care tasks seem insurmountable. You deserve to prioritize your health and well-being, even if it requires some assistance. If you find yourself unsure about how to engage in selfcare or feel like you're not effectively caring for yourself without understanding why, we encourage you to reach out to us for support at 412-856-WELL or CounselingWellnessPGH.com

**Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh, Cranberry Location

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Work-Life Balance impacts your Wellness, Mental Health, and Performance By: Traci Sanderson, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, BCC, Ellie Mental Health Pittsburgh The problem that small businesses and employees face in the modern workplace is that it is more competitive. The reality is technology connects employees to the organization 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. The resultant increased work demands have led to burnout, turnover, disengagement, and increased stress with a need for more work-life balance and focus on overall well-being. Mental health issues have been increasing since COVID and will continue to increase in the year 2024.

Small businesses are struggling with retention as well as keeping a culture of satisfied, healthy, and engaged employees. It is within this space that mental health professionals can help. It is within this space that a behavioral health specialist can bring awareness to how mental health issues impact performance and overall wellness.

What is work-life balance?

Work-life balance is used to include a broad range of non-work demands and activities which employees could experience. Such employee activities may include personal relationships and health, family responsibilities, volunteer work, sporting performances, religion, and travel. Each person has their own subjective individual perceptions (as opposed to objective measures) of what balance looks like for them.

These subjective perceptions may change over time in response to changing life priorities.

Employees with work-life balance feel their lives are fulfilled both inside and outside of work, and they experience minimal conflict between work and non-work roles.

Those who achieve this balance tend to have higher levels of satisfaction with their jobs and life in general, as well as lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety.

What is wellness?

Just like work-life balance, wellness is a broad concept. Think of wellness as being healthy in many dimensions of our lives. That includes the occupational, physical, intellectual, financial, social, environmental, spiritual, and emotional parts. These dimensions are interconnected, one dimension building on another.

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Let’s take a deeper look at the 8 dimensions of wellness and how they relate to our lives.

Occupational wellness is personal satisfaction and enrichment derived from one’s work.

Physical wellness is recognizing the need for physical activity, diet, sleep, and nutrition.

Financial wellness is satisfaction with current and future financial situations.

Social wellness is developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a welldeveloped support system.

Environmental wellness is good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being.

Spiritual wellness is expanding our sense of purpose and meaning in life.

Emotional wellness is coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships.

It is fair to say that when one or two dimensions of our lives become too demanding, such as the occupational and emotional parts, balance may be more difficult to achieve, and we run into work-life conflict. It is within these demands and continued conflict where mental health symptoms and issues may arise that could impact our functioning in each domain.

What is mental health?

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Work is consistently rated among the top two or three sources of stress among individuals. This stress contributes to emotional (e.g., sadness, trust, anger), psychological (e.g., depression, anxiety), and behavioral (e.g., increased alcohol use) problems. In turn, mental health symptoms and issues impact our well-being and work-life balance. When there is no balance and stressors build, mental health symptoms can arise and change healthy behaviors. Effective coping strategies become more difficult to implement and unhealthy coping strategies become more prominent.

How do mental health symptoms impact workplace performance?

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Stress, psychological factors (e.g., depression, anxiety), and demands of everyday life influence how employees perform in the workplace. Absenteeism and disengagement in the workplace have been on the rise in part due to the increase of employees’ mental health issues. Let’s look at the cause and effect of absenteeism. A depressed employee who finds it difficult to get out of bed in the morning and calls off work. As a result, the depressed employee misses the deadline of an important work project. This impacts the workload of coworkers causing them increased stress, and the potential loss of business. Let’s see the cause and effect of disengagement.

The depressed employee who lacks motivation and purpose in their life does not perform the duties of his/her role and starts to disengage from important work projects and demands of the job. As a result, the quality of work and performance of the depressed employee is significantly noticed by managers/coworkers which impacts relationships, productivity, and potentially the company culture. Other mental health symptoms of depression and anxiety impact employee performance, however, it can ultimately impact the bottom-line of the business.

Implications for Practice in your small business.

Employers can promote a positive work-life culture, provide wellness programs, and mental health awareness by taking action at several different levels. First, considering implementing one or more work-life benefits such telecommuting or flexible work hour options for employees, if and when possible. Second, remember that when owners and managers buy into the policies created to help balance work and life, employees are more likely to take advantage of them. Third, make employees aware of the efforts they can undertake to optimize their own work-life balance. For example, encourage employees to utilize vacation time (without work related technology) for purposes of recovery. By doing so, employees physically and psychologically detach from their work, and they report greater well-being in general.

Fourth, consider having a wellness program on-site allowing employees to discover their individual plan to overall wellness and what that looks like in relationship to the business. In addition, make mental health awareness a priority and remove the stigma of getting help from a mental health professional. Building a culture of trust and psychological safety allows employees to access mental health services such as Ellie Mental Health to get the help they need to perform and be successful in their life. It is through a mental health professional that employees can find meaning, purpose, and value in work and in life. Essentially what we strive for is to live happy, productive, and rewarding lives. When we achieve our purpose and are aware of our core beliefs and how we apply them we feel more balanced in our overall well-being.

PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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Burnout and Business Owners: A Health Hazard No One Talks About By: Niki Campbell, Founder & CEO of The Flourish Group and Health and Wellness Expert Burnout is running rampant in the business world. Nearly every industry is grappling with the costs of high turnover, declining employee health and reduced workplace productivity.

Job-related stress contributes to 550 million workdays lost annually, and the World Health Organization estimates that $1 trillion is lost in productivity each year as a result.

Often, we don’t talk about burnout as it relates to small business owners. According to a 2023 study by Small Biz Silver Lining, 75 percent of small business owners are concerned about their mental health, and 56 percent have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or stress-related health concerns.

This is a big problem in the world of small business because entrepreneurial burnout can have a direct financial impact on the owner’s health and the health of their family, employees, and the communities in which they exist. And with more than 33 million small businesses driving the U.S. economy, this can have a major economic impact nationally.

In the relentless pursuit of success, business owners often find themselves walking a tightrope between ambition and exhaustion. Professional burnout poses a significant threat to the well-being of business owners and adopting preventive measures is paramount for protecting personal health and building business vitality.

For business owners, the repercussions of burnout extend far beyond personal suffering. It infiltrates every aspect of their entrepreneurial endeavors, wreaking havoc on productivity, creativity, and decision-making abilities. Burnout impairs judgment, leading to costly mistakes and missed opportunities. Unchecked burnout can sabotage the very foundation of a business, putting its long-term sustainability at risk. Business owners, driven by their passion and commitment, often push themselves to the limit, unwittingly paving the path to burnout.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Recognizing the signs of burnout is the first step toward prevention. They include physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion resulting from prolonged work-related stressors. Burnout can manifest in various forms, including feelings of cynicism, detachment from work, and a sense of ineffectiveness.

While burnout is on the rise, there are simple strategies business owners can employ now to safeguard their well-being and avoid burnout all together: Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life.

Allocate dedicated time for relaxation, hobbies, and social activities to recharge.

Delegate Responsibility: Trust your team members with tasks and responsibilities, empowering them to take ownership and contribute to the success of the business.

Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable priority. Engage in regular exercise, prioritize nutritious meals, and ensure an adequate amount of sleep each night.

Seek Support: Don't hesitate to seek support from mentors, peers, or professional counselors. Surround yourself with a strong support network that can offer guidance, encouragement, and perspective during challenging times.

Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your hard work and accomplishments and take pride in the progress you've made. Cultivating a positive mindset can fuel motivation and resilience in the face of adversity.

While professional burnout poses a formidable threat to the well-being and success of business owners, it can be prevented by implementing a few healthy behaviors that will safeguard your health, preserve your passion, and sustain the vitality of your businesses.

Additionally, there are several organizations that provide resources and support for those experiencing burnout.

American Psychological Association (APA): The APA offers a range of resources and tools to help professionals manage and prevent burnout including articles, research papers, and webinars on topics related to workplace stress, resilience, and self-care.

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National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): NAMI is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the United States. While NAMI's primary focus is on mental health conditions, they also recognize the importance of addressing burnout among professionals. NAMI offers support groups, educational programs, and online resources.

American Institute of Stress (AIS): AIS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the understanding of stress and its impact on health, performance, and productivity. They offer a variety of resources, including articles, webinars, and selfassessment tools, to help individuals recognize and manage stress and burnout in the workplace.

These organizations are just a few examples of the many resources available to professionals experiencing burnout. However, the first step is to recognize you need help and put yourself first.

Remember… prioritizing self-care is not a luxury; asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness; and most importantly, you are worthy of a healthy, happy life!

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

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Workforce Development Intrviews

By Kathleen Kuznicki, The Lynch Law Group

In its role of being a thought leader and a community advocate, the PNRC has commissioned its Legislative and Economic Development Committee to record a series of videos interviewing persons from various organizations/industries to get their perspectives on Workforce Development. We hope to inform our members about the challenges businesses are facing in various industry sectors and what best practices are being implemented to resolve these challenges either by business themselves or regional organizations. The following five organizations recently participated in the project to share their insights: Butler County Community College Personal Empowerment Training- Personal Empowerment Training is rooted in emotional intelligence training and offers participants the tools and techniques to build self-confidence and become the best version of themselves. This training explores over 40 emotional concepts such as beliefs, self-esteem, empathy, active listening, and managing conflict. Participants increased knowledge, practice and application encourages new perspectives and habits. Tricia Pritchard, Director of Community Employment Development, explains why training in these “soft skills” is so important for developing a health workforce.: PNRC Workforce Development Interview with Butler County Community College (youtube.com) Tri-County Workforce Investment Board, Inc.- The mission of the Tri-County Workforce Investment Board, Inc. is to provide responsive and innovative leadership that meets the current and future needs of employers and job seekers. The vision of the Tri-County Workforce Investment Board, Inc. is that the local area will be a destination of choice for employers and job seekers, where existing businesses experience growth and where new businesses are eager to locate because of the excellent job opportunities, economic vitality, quality of life, and the presence of a skilled workforce. Mary Salony, The Executive Director at the Tri-County WIB shares about the various WIB programs that benefit the workforce and our communities.

PNRC Workforce Development Interview with Tri-County Workforce Investment Board, Inc. (youtube.com) PghNorthChamber.com | May 2024

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Yarger Professional Search-Yarger knows that people are the most critical element in any company’s success. Their strategy involves the latest technology and a multi-channel approach to ensure their clients draw from the strongest candidate pools available. They have a passion for research and effective networking that enables them to find talent that others may overlook. Hear from Micah Yarger about why some workers want to transition to a different job and about the competition employers are facing for the talent pool. Workers want, and frankly need, more than just a paycheck from employers. PNRC Workforce Development Interview with Yarger Professional Search (youtube.com) Butler County Board of Commissioners Chair Leslie Osche- in this role, Leslie serves as Chairman of the Board of the Southwest PA Commission, and on the Boards of RIDC, Tri-County Workforce Investment, and Community Development Corporation and represents the Commissioners on the Children & Youth, Parks & Recreation, and the Aging Advisory Committee and the 9-1-1 Communications Council. As Commissioner, she and her fellow Board members successfully secured two major federal transportation grants to advance the Gateway 228 corridor, developed a County Infrastructure Bank, and launched the Butler County Growth Collaborative for Economic Development. Learn how the Board of Commissioners for Butler County is working with the Growth Collaborative, Butler County Community College, and Health Systems to attract workers and businesses to the region, and hear about the Micro-Transportation pilot program and other innovative ideas. PNRC Workforce Development Interview with Board of Commissioners County of Butler (youtube.com) Beaver County Corporation for Economic Development- BCCED is a non-profit certified economic development organization located in SWPA. BCCED’s mission is to enhance the economic well-being and quality of life for the Beaver County Community. BCCED fulfills its mission by supporting, undertaking, and funding programs or projects in the economic development practice areas of entrepreneurship and business retention, expansion, and attraction. BCCED also supports economic development projects and initiatives designed to retain and attract residents for the purpose of growing a highly trained Beaver County Workforce. Lew Villotti, President of the BCCED, discusses the role of the BCCED in workforce development and the opportunities for business in the region. PNRC Workforce Development Interview with the Beaver County Corporation for Economic Development (youtube.com) 36

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

A.W. Beattie Career Center

By Shawn Annarelli, A.W. Beattie Career Center

Educational Corner

A.W. Beattie Career Center offers 19 programs to provide an immersive educational experience to students so that they are college and career-ready after high school graduation.

Graduate follow-up studies, most recently conducted by the Career Center in 2023, indicate that 97 percent of students are hired full-time or are enrolled full-time for post-secondary education within a year of high school graduation. More than 99 percent of students are employed part-time, enrolled part-time in post-secondary education, or are serving in the military within a year of graduating.

The 19 Career Center programs fulfill elective credit requirements for 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students. Seniors who attend A.W. Beattie Career Center participate in the NOCTI exam, which awards industry certifications and college credits based on test results. This incentivizes and empowers students to build their resume and portfolio while they are in high school.

The Career Center has expanded its learning opportunities in recent years with new programs like Veterinary Sciences, Sports Medicine-Rehab Therapy, and Surgical Sciences. These programs were created to meet the educational needs of students and the needs of local, continuously growing industries.

To go along with an expansion in programs, the Career Center’s enrollment also has increased every year for six years. There were about 700 students enrolled in programs in the 2018-2019 school year, and there will be about 1,000 students enrolled to begin the 2024-25 school year.

Students who elect to attend A.W. Beattie receive hands-on, real-world experiences in their selected program so that they can actively explore a multitude of career pathways in the field of education they are interested in.

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Students in the Culinary Arts and Pastry Arts program prepare food and manage a restaurant that is open to the public Thursday and Friday for breakfast and lunch. Third-year cosmetology students work in a salon open to the public. Students in the Automotive Technology and Automotive Collision Technology programs work daily on vehicles to be used on roadways.

Educational Corner

The examples of real-world, authentic experiences in every program are endless.

Qualified students throughout the Career Center also have cooperative education and clinical opportunities to work in local businesses and non-profits. These experiences add a paid or unpaid career-based learning component to a student's experience. Seniors in Cooperative Education and Clinicals attend A.W. Beattie one to three days a week, and they report to their job sites for the remainder of the week.

Students who achieve the necessary standards of career education excellence through A.W. Beattie Career Center and their high school programs are able to be inducted into the National Technical Honor Society each year. It is a true privilege to be a part of this outstanding leadership group.

Seniors are able to apply for a variety of local, regional, and statewide scholarships to assist them with costs related to tools for employment and post-secondary tuition.

A.W. Beattie Career Center is proud of each student's efforts to pursue their passion.

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Alicia Photography American Cancer Society Armstrong A.W. Beattie Career Center Creese, Smith, Hune, & Co. LLC Basilone Executive Search and Crisis Center North, Inc Staffing Dillon McCandless King Coulter & Graham Baierl Auto Group L.L.P. Borough of Seven Fields Dollar Bank - Pine Twp. Butler County Community College Dollar Bank Loan Center - Cranberry Coldwell Banker - Jan Stevens Dukovich & Associates Cole Management Inc. EZ Storage Concordia of Cranberry First City Company - McIntyre Square CORE Environmental Services Fun Fore All Family Fun Park Costco Wholesale Glade Run Foundation Cranberry Public Library Hill, Barth & King LLC Cranberry Supply Co. Holsinger Cranberry Township Huntington Bank - Wexford Creative Real Estate Development Co

Amspirit of Western PA Atria Senior Living at Cranberry Woods Best Western Plus Cranberry Brandy Farrow State Farm Insurance Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau cfsbank Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh Delta Telecom of PA Diversified Plan Services Inc Dollar Bank Ellie Mental Health Pittsburgh EnVision Independence Rehab Services LLC

Renewal By Andersen First National Bank Restart, Inc Help Pittsburgh Hire Sain Law, LLC Joe Palmieri Construction, Inc. Sunrise Assisted Living of JP Diroll Photography McCandless Just Life, Inc Team Fishguy Transplant Foundation kat's coffeehouse Tequila Jalisco Little Moon Marketing The Wilson Group, LLC Millie's Homemade Ice Cream Thee Hemp Co. Minuteman Press - Cranberry Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. MSA - The Safety Company Three Rivers Paintball, Inc. No H20 Auto Detailing Triple H Solutions North Allegheny School District Univest Financial North Hills Monthly Magazine Weber Insurance Agency Pearl Insurance Agency, LLC

Allegheny Mountain Hardwood Flooring Any Lab Test Now - Wexford, PA Citadel Construction Group, LLC Fischgrund Consulting Hunt Insurance Services Inc Kim Marie Angiulli - Coldwell Banker

Light of Life Rescue Mission ModWash Pittsburgh Design Diva LLC Powerwash Mobile Cleaning Robert Morris University

Tom Boivin Donna Kline

Annie Cairns Lisa Hunt

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IMA | ESS Kawneer Cranberry - An Arconic Company Lifesteps McCandless Corporate Center Medicine Shoppe of Ingomar Minuteman Press - Cranberry MSA- The Safety Company North Allegheny School District North Hills Community Outreach North Hills Monthly Magazine Seneca Valley School District The Chadwick Three Rivers Paintball, Inc. Tierra Realty Management WesBanco Bank - Cranberry Twp. WesBanco Bank - Perry Highway Win-Son Inc.

Ronald A. Sofranko Tropical Smoothie Cafe Victorian Finance West-Aircomm FCU Zerorez Inc.

April Buzzelli Susan Wienzierl

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

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