Corridors September 2023

2023 September

IN THIS ISSUE Benefits Young Professionals Bring PNRC Announces Staff Changes PNRC Community Outreach Committee Spotlight Workforce Development

CORRIDORS

From the President Weekly Networking Meetings Member of the Month Ribbon Cuttings/BAH

The Benefits Young Professionals Bring to an Organization

Community Builders PNRC Announces Staff Changes My Benefit Advisor

Nonprofit Spotlight Workforce Development Legislative Corner Penn National Insurance

La Roche University Educational Corner Lunchbox Session Membership Matters

Chamber Partners

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

On Tuesday, September 26th, we will be hosting a Committee Fair Mini-golf Outing that we are calling Links & Learn. The outing will begin immediately after our Tuesday Connections meeting at Discovery Church on Scharberry Lane, off Rt. 228 in Mars at 11:30 AM. Join us to learn more about our committees and how you can get involved. The event is free to attend, with mini-golf and a catered lunch included.

Joining a chamber committee has a lot of value! Here are just a few of the benefits: • • • • • • • • •

Build relationships with like-minded individuals.

Give back to the community.

Enhance personal development.

Provide input to the chamber in an area that you are passionate about.

Make contacts to grow your customer base.

Support the chamber’s strategic mission.

Broaden your network.

Expand your exposure.

It’s a great segue to serving on the Boards of Directors.

Jim Boltz, President

Here is a list of our committees: Ambassador- Assists and promotes the chamber in recruitment and retention.

Community Outreach- Focuses on outreach endeavors such as scholarships, school and food drives, mentoring, Days of Caring, Angel Giving Trees, etc.

Events- Assists in the wide range of events and programs that the chamber has to offer. Subcommittees are Golf and Farmer’s Market.

HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Excel)- Supports the growth of young professionals through events, mentoring, and community involvement.

Legislative and Economic Development- Works to support the growth of local businesses through community involvement and taking an active part in building relationships with legislators.

Marketing and Communications- Creates innovative ways of promoting the Chamber and its programs and services.

Membership- Assists in growing membership, engaging members, member retention, and improving benefits.

Hopefully, you can join us on September 26th. It’s a great way to learn more about the chamber, network, enjoy lunch, and have fun!

Sincerely,

Jim Boltz President, PNRC

PghNorthChamber.com | September

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH 11:30AM-1PM TEQUILA JALISCO—GIBSONIA 5517 William Flynn Highway Gibsonia, PA 15044

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH 8AM-9AM VIRTUAL VIA ZOOM

Come Celebrate Women in Business!

Sign up HERE for the Zoom link Re

Register HERE

Tuesdays, 11:30AM-1PM

Presenting Sponsor:

@ Discovery Christian Church in Mars

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH 5PM-7PM

Fridays, 7:30AM-9AM

DENTED KEG BREWING COMPANY, LLC

@ Panera Bread in Wexford SPONSORED BY:

Want to present at a Connections Meeting?

Email Kelvin Mack

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's Cranberry Township Branch, we are able to provide virtual networking events.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Amy Schafer

“Amy contributes to the Chamber and the community in so many ways. A great ambassador for the Cranberry Farmer’s Market, she continuously promotes it. Not only does she volunteer for set up almost every week, she also solicits other volunteers.

It’s not just her efforts at the Farmer’s Market, though, that earned this award. In addition, at our golf outing, she spent the entire day volunteering for us. Her friendly, welcoming personality is a pleasure to everyone that she encounters. We are proud to have her represent the chamber.”

-Jim Boltz, President, PNRC

PghNorthChamber.com | September

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CELEBRATE WITH US!

Vitalant Blood Donation

Help us celebrate the “refreshed” Cranberry Township location!

Tuesday, September 19th 2:00 PM– 3:00 PM

Butler Centre, 2nd Floor 20421 Perry Hwy, Rte 19, Cranberry Twp, PA 16066

JOIN US FOR A BUSINESS AFTER HOURS! DENTED KEG BREWING COMPANY LLC Wednesday, September 20th 5 - 7 PM 700 Adams Shoppes Mars, PA 16046

Register here!

This Business After Hours is Sponsored by: Page 6

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Upcoming Chamber Signature Events: HYPE Back to School Mixer September 14th, 2023 Lolev Beer Please contact Carrie Nolan– Robson to register.

HYPE Iron Chef– Style Competition September 25th, 2023 Four Power Kids Cooking Studio Register here!

Cranberry Township Farmers Market Fridays through September 29th Cranberry Township Municipal Building

Barktoberfest September 29th, 2023 Cranberry Township Farmers Market Special Event PghNorthChamber.com | September

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The Benefits Young Professionals Bring to an Organization Authored by: Jeremy Johnson

The job market today is unique and ever– changing– layoffs, new technologies, industry growth, economic conditions, etc. All of these factors have changed the way individuals work and find employment. Some industries are experiencing growth and demand for skilled workers, while some are seeing a decline. Job seekers need to know how to market their business effectively and be willing to learn new skills to stay competitive in their field. At the same time, businesses need to be innovative and responsive to the changing market conditions. This will help them attract and retain new talent to stay competitive in today’s global economy.

For young professionals, the job market is extremely competitive. They are having to compete with individuals who have been in the market for many years, while they are just starting their careers. With experience being a top priority for many jobs right now, young professionals who are passionate, innovative, and have a great skillset are losing out on job opportunities to candidates who many have more years of experience than they do. While experience is important and brings wisdom, we should be constantly learning and growing in our careers.

Young professionals offer fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to companies. They bring fresh, new, creative ideas, which help organizations stay competitive and relevant in the ever– changing market.

Young professionals are often more adaptable and flexible in their approach to work. Many organizations may consider this valuable in the fast– paced business world.

One of the most overlooked benefits of young professionals is that they are often highly proficient in using technology. This can be a significant asset for companies looking to modernize and innovate. Having grown up with technology, young professionals know how to use many different programs and can adapt quickly to new ones that arise.

Young professionals have a lot of passion. They are often highly motivated and enthusiastic about their work. This can help create a positive and productive workplace culture throughout the whole office. You can teach skills, but you cannot train passion!

Contrary to popular belief, most young professionals are very eager to learn new skills and take on new challenges. This helps organizations stay agile and helps them respond better to changing business needs.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is becoming an increasingly significant conversation in the workforce. Young professionals bring with them a range of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experience to the workplace. This helps to foster a more inclusive and welcoming culture.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

There is a lot of long– term potential when hiring a young professional. If companies invest in young professionals early in their careers, companies can develop and retain those individuals for the long– term, which creates a sustainable competitive advantage. People go where they feel wanted, but stay where they feel valued.

Since young professionals are growing up in the age of social media, they bring with them extensive networks of peers and colleagues. This could be beneficial for a company that is trying to expand their reach and build new partnerships.

Finally, young professionals are very involved in their local communities. Community engagement is a value that many young professionals hold in high regard. This can get companies involved in the community in which they operate and help the company build stronger ties within the community.

While young professionals may not have all the experience companies are looking for in a job candidate, they bring a lot of amazing skills and qualities that can get overlooked simply from the answer in the “Years of Experience” box on an application. Next time your company is hiring, consider how your company could benefit from hiring a young professional, even if they do not have the “years of experience” that some of the other candidates may have.

To read the article, click HERE

PghNorthChamber.com | September

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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!

A Comfort Service Ace Handyman Services Pittsburgh North AJ Technology Group Alliance for Nonprofit Resources Ameriglide Another Level Ministries Arvos Schmidtsche Schack, LLC Atria McCandless Atria’s Restaurant & Tavern- O’Hara Township Axis Business Consultants Big Spring Spirits - Seven Fields Bill Few Associates, Inc. Bosland Electric, LLC Borough of Seven Fields Bruster’s of Ingomar Butler County Symphony Orchestra CHROME Federal Credit Union Clean Express Auto Wash Clearview Federal Credit Union CTR Payroll Services Charles P. Leach Agency, Inc. Charter Homes & Neighborhoods Choice Restorative Medicine Coldwell Banker - Jan Stevens Cole Management, Inc. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving Community Bank Community Park Self Storage Compass Self Storage- Gibsonia Concordia Cranberry Highlands Golf Course Cranberry Supply Co. Cranberry Township Cranberry Township Public Library Cranberry Township Volunteer Fire Co. Cranberry Men’s Choir Cranberry Village Estates Crea Excavating, Inc. Creese, Smith, Hune and Co. Creative Real Estate Development Co. CTR Payroll Services Curio412, LLC C.W. Howard Insurance Agency, Inc. Direct Payment Consultants, LLC Dairy Queen- Cranberry Dollar Bank Drayer Physical Therapy - Cranberry Dukovich & Associates ECCA Payroll + Encompass Health and Rehabilitation Express Employment Professionals EZ Storage Fairfield by Marriott Pittsburgh North/ McCandless Crossing Fairground Market, Inc.

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Federated Mortgage Corp.

Find Your Destination, Travel Agency First City Company- McIntyre Square First Commonwealth Bank– Adams Township First Commonwealth Bank– Cranberry First Commonwealth Bank– Gibsonia First Commonwealth Bank– McCandless First Commonwealth Bank– Wexford Flowers by Gerard Fun Fore All Family Fun Park Goddard School- Hampton Goddard School– Wexford Goldfish Swim School Wexford Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center Guardian Storage- Hampton Guardian Storage- Ross H2R CPA Handel's Ice Cream McCandless Heritage Hospice Highmark Caring Place Holsinger Home Depot - Cranberry House of 1000 Beers I-Clean, Inc. IMA | ESS Innovate E-Commerce, Inc. InVision Human Services Izzazu Salon, Spa & Blowout Bar Jason's Deli- Cranberry Twp Jeff Brooks Landscaping Jireh Mobile Joe Palmieri Construction, Inc. Junior Achievement of Western PA Juniper Grill Just In Thyme Catering and Events, Inc. Kress Restoration Keystone Clippers– Sports Clips Laurel Business Institute Laurelwood/West Realty Land and Development Co. Leathem Creation Co. Legal Shield & Identity Theft Protection Liberty Insurance Agency Limbach Company Link to Visibility, LLC Lisowski Tree Service and Landscaping LLC Lou Negley’s Bottled Water Inc. Lutheran Senior Life Masonic Village at Sewickley MEDIA - The Creative Agency Maria Valdez - In Memory of Bruce Conley Mark Mashuda Excavating Inc. Mars Bank Mascari Auto Body, Inc. Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of PA

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

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

McCall Scanlon & Tice, LLC - CPA McCandless Corporate Center McGuire Memorial Foundation MHY Family Services MSA - The Safety Company Muhlenkamp & Company, Inc. Mullin Landscape & Winter Management Myers, Patsy & Associates, LLC Newt & Ruby Interiors NexTier Bank Nexus Financial Network NFP Nick Scotti Concrete Contractor Inc. Nicole Zirnsak State Farm Insurance North Hills Affordable Housing (HEARTH) North Hills Family Dental North Pittsburgh Greeting Company North Star Buick GMC Olive Garden - Cranberry Oliver Outdoor OMEGA Federal Credit Union- North Hills OMEGA Federal Credit Union- Wexford Once Upon A Hero Organic Remedies, Inc. Owl Cleaners, Inc. PA Cyber Charter School Passavant Hospital Foundation Pawlowicz Dentistry Pearl Insurance Agency, LLC Penn National Insurance Perform Physio, LLC Piatt Sotheby’s International Realty Phelps Nursery PGH, North Inc. Pittsburgh Business Times Pittsburgh Jet Center Pittsburgh Skin Pittsburgh Mercy Pittsburgh Post Gazette Pittsburgh Job Corps Polesky Agency - Erie Insurance Pressley Ridge Priority2Work R.M. Stoof & Associates Inc. Restart, Inc. Richard Goettle Inc. Richland Mall Right Electric, Inc. RiteRug Flooring Riverview Carpet & Flooring, Inc. Rj Community Management Rt 228 Auto Mall Salem Media Group SAM’s Club Sarver Landscape Maintenance Co. Scolieri- Beam Law Group PC Sechler Law Firm, LLC

PghNorthChamber.com | September

Seneca Valley School District SERVPRO of Southern Butler County Sheeley Agency - Allstate Insurance Sheetz Communications Sherwin Williams - Cranberry Signature Settlement Services SPARK SIGNS & GRAPHICS Special T Electronics LLC Specialized Staffing and Industry Recruiters, Inc. SSB Bank Staples- Cranberry Twp. Star Limousine Service, Inc. Strutz International Waters of Wexford Terry’s Plumbing, Inc. The Arc of Butler County The Block Northway The Chadwick The Exercise Coach - Cranberry Twp. The Haven at North Hills The Lynch Law Group The Pavilion at Star Lake - Live Nation The Payroll Shoppe The Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School The Waters of Wexford The Wilson Group, LLC Thought Process Enterprises Three Rivers Paintball, Inc. Tierra Realty Management TownePlace Suites by Marriott Township of Hampton Township of Ross Treasure House Fashions Treesdale Golf & Country Club Trib Total Media TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Ultimate Granite Surfaces, Inc. Urish Popeck & Co. LLC Vincentian Vitalant (Central Blood Bank) Vrabel Plumbing Company, LLC Wain Landscaping, LLC Walnut Grill Wexford Weber Insurance Agency WesBanco Bank -Cranberry WesBanco Bank -Perry Highway West Penn Multi-List, Inc. White Deer Run Treatment Network Wichman Landscape Construction, LLC Wiest Asphalt Products & Paving Inc. Williams Industrial Sales Win-Son Inc. Wine Concrete Products Inc. Young Adult Survivors United Your CBD Store - North Hills Your CBD Store– Shaler

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The Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber Announces Staff Changes The PNRC is proud to announce the addition of Denise Martin as Director of Partnerships and Development. President Jim Boltz says, “I am excited for Denise to join our staff. Over the past few years, I have had the pleasure to work with Denise through the chamber’s partnership with Treesdale. I have always been impressed with her professionalism and skills. I am thrilled that, now, she’ll be bringing her talents to the chamber. She is perfectly suited for this new position.”

Born and raised in the North Hills, Denise Martin is proud to call Pittsburgh home. Her career has been focused on connecting people, businesses and communities, networking, brand-building and membership development.

Formerly the Director of Membership & Programs for the Greater Latrobe-Laurel Valley Chamber of Commerce, she was a vital part of their rebranding and increasing Membership by over forty percent. A memorable highlight was working with the Legendary Arnold Palmer on their Annual Membership Golf Classic at Latrobe Country Club and opening the Chamber’s Visitor Center on Route 30.

Most recently, Denise completed six successful years as the Director of Membership at Treesdale Golf & Country Club, welcoming nearly 700 new Members to a premier property featuring 27 championship holes designed by Arnold Palmer. She is excited to move into the next chapter of her career as Director of Partnerships & Development for the PNRC. “It feels like life is coming full circle,” said Denise, “returning to a position in the community that serves the people, businesses and overall wellness of the Pittsburgh North Region. Jim Boltz and the entire Chamber team play such a positive and important role in cultivating a successful business networking environment, perfectly combined with creating a vibrant community of events, education and advocacy that bring everyone together. I am thrilled to join their team and hope to bring excitement, engagement and energy for years to come.”

In her spare time, Denise enjoys spending time with her twin sons, their wives, and her grandson. She loves to golf, hike and travel, noting one of her favorite trips was a 35-day “Voyage of the Vikings” cruise to Greenland, Iceland and Europe.

Denise will be joining the PNRC staff on September 5th and can be reached at DMartin@PghNorthChamber.com The PNRC is also pleased to announce the promotion of Cara Talarico to the position of Office Manager and Special Event Coordinator. Boltz states, “In a very short time, Cara has excelled in everything that we have asked her to do. We are excited to be able to expand her responsibilities to Office Manager.”

Cara graduated from Duquesne University in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications. Upon her graduation, she was hired as the Special Event and Digital Media Coordinator at the PNRC. Prior to that, she worked two stints as an intern for the chamber, most recently, as a marketing intern in the spring of 2023. In the summer of 2022, she managed the Cranberry Farmers Market for the chamber.

In connection with these moves, Kelvin Mack, the Director of Marketing and Membership, in addition to his membership relations role, will be responsible for all marketing efforts in growing the PNRC brand.

Boltz says, “With Kelvin’s background and expertise, we are excited to have him in charge of all our marketing and PR efforts. We are confident he will lead the PNRC to new levels of visibility while continuing to build our relationships with our members.”

Kelvin has been with the PNRC since 2022. His previous experience includes being the founder and owner of MackWP Marketing. Prior to that, Kelvin was the Marketing Director with the Central Pinellas Chamber of Commerce in Florida. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management with a minor in Marketing from Slippery Rock University and a Master’s Degree in Organization Studies from Robert Morris University.

Boltz concludes, “We are confident that these moves will position the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber for continued growth. These individuals, along with Carrie Nolan Robson, the Director of Events and Programs, bring an exceptional team together that will lead our organization in fulfilling its mission of creating new opportunities for business development through networking, cooperation, advocacy and education.”

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

PNRC Committee Spotlight: Community Outreach The Community Outreach Committee focuses on service and promoting goodwill within our regional footprint. This includes endeavors such as scholarships, Days of Caring, Giving Trees, etc. The committee works in conjunction with the staff & Board of Directors to identify worthwhile outreach endeavors to promote and support.

“The Community Outreach Committee works to fulfill the Chamber's goals for community involvement and giving back to the community. Our major projects each year include the Chamber's scholarship programs for college-bound high school students and trade & technical school students. We also manage the Giving Tree program which works together with Chamber members and the community to provide holiday gifts for those in need. Last year we were able to distribute over 1,100 gifts! The Chamber's Days of Caring program is another project managed by the Community Outreach Committee. We meet virtually on the first Friday of each month at 8:30 AM. Potential new committee members are always welcome!” - Jan Stevens Meet the Community Outreach Committee Chair - Jan Stevens, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Questions? Are you interested in being a part of the Community Outreach Committee or learning more information? Contact Jan Stevens at jstevens2655@gmail.com or Carrie Nolan– Robson at crobson@pghnorthchamber.com for all the details!

Stay tuned for more information about PNRC committee highlights…

Events and Programming, Golf, Marketing and Communications Interested in joining a committee, but unsure which one is the right fit or what it would entail? Join us for Links & Learn on Tuesday, September 26th at Discovery Christian Church from 11:30 AM– 2:00 PM. All of our committees will have representatives at different holes to talk about what each committee does and how you can join! This event will be in place of the weekly Chamber Connections meeting. This is a free event, but please register here.

PghNorthChamber.com | September

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EXPANDING MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS In the past few years, many employers have expanded their company’s mental health benefits as a show of support for potential jobseekers, employees, and their families. The intention is to help promote employee wellbeing through better access and improved benefit levels for those feeling stressed about personal or work-life matters.

Workers seem to appreciate the efforts and are taking advantage of the services. Some of the changes business owners are making include: •

Increasing access to mental health services through methods like telehealth

•

An expansion of access to in-network mental health providers

•

Reduced cost sharing for mental healthcare visits

•

The addition or expansion of employee assistance programs for mental health services

•

Access to yoga, meditation and mindfulness sessions at the workplace or home

•

Providing apps that support wellness, focusing on fitness, sleep and relaxation

By addressing issues like stress and anxiety in a more proactive fashion, employers can reduce or even eliminate costly treatment for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiac problems. The small financial investment the employer makes now can often save substantial costs in the future.

The Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at pnrc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Craig Pritts at (800) 377-3539.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

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 | September

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NONPROFIT Nonprofit Name: Dress for Success Pittsburgh Mission: Clothing, connections, confidence! The mission of Dress for Success Pittsburgh is to empower women who are entering and returning to the workforce across the region.

What impact does your organization wish to make in the world?

It is our vision to ensure a world in which all women are free from poverty and able to thrive in both work and life.

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

Dress for Success Pittsburgh is always looking for corporate partners who want to support mobile services, allowing our team to bring clothing and employment readiness support to women on location around the region.

Upcoming Events:

Sidewalk Sale Series Dress for Success Pittsburgh’s newest location in Sharpsburg Last 4 Fridays in September Click here for more information!

EmployHER Pittsburgh Program Kick– off & Opportunity Job Fair: Monday, October 30th 12 PM– 6 PM University of Pittsburgh Community Engagement Center Click here to register!

Information/ Donation Contact:

Bridget McCoy Operations Manager bridget@dressforsuccesspittsburgh.org

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

CHECK OUT UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS & NETWORKING MEETINGS IN 2023!

For 2023 sponsorship opportunities, contact Carrie at: crobson@pghnorthchamber.com PghNorthChamber.com | September

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Workforce Development

Authored by Kathleen Kuznicki, Patent Attorney, 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 having committee members interviewing persons from various organizations/industries to get their perspectives on Workforce Development. We hope to educate our members about the challenges businesses are facing in various industry sectors and what best practices are being implemented to resolve these challenges. I would like to highlight two more of the organizations that have participated in the project: Butler County Community College (BC3) Cranberry-Butler County Community College offers credit degrees and certificates, noncredit certificates and training and lifelong learning classes and eight (8) times has been the number one (1) ranked Community College in Pennsylvania.

Ryan Kociela, Ed.D. discusses how BC3 is training students in various fields and giving them skills that will lead to employability. Many jobs now require an Associate’s degree instead of the traditional four year degree. BC3 also focuses on teaching their student’s communication skills which help them be effective no matter what career pathway they choose. BC3 has 70% of their students leaving debt-free and prepared for their futures. You can see Ryan’s interview here.

WIN-Women’s Interactive Network, LLC -The WIN Workforce Development Program (WDP) seeks to address the economic hardships faced by individuals by providing comprehensive job training and placement assistance. This supports economically challenged individuals, including those with mental health diagnoses, intellectual disabilities, individuals dealing with substance abuse or in early recovery, and those at risk of homelessness. The program's goal is to provide job training and placement assistance to economically challenged individuals, empowering them to secure sustainable employment. Watch here as Dawn Pomaybo, WIN Workforce Development Program Director, discusses issues and what WIN is doing to help individuals.

To view the other interviews, please visit our YouTube channel! If you are interested in being interviewed on workforce development, please contact Kathleen Kuznicki at kkuznicki@lynchlaw-group.com.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

PghNorthChamber.com | September

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Connecting Over Coffee

You asked for more networking events, and we have heard you!

Starting in January, we are holding 'Connecting Over Coffee' from 8:30am to 10:00am on the third Wednesday every month.

This rotates around our various PNRC members, so stay tuned for the event locations. This is a free networking event so mark your calendars to join us and connect over coffee!

Keep an eye on your email for updates about where and when the September Connecting Over Coffee will be!

If you have any questions or would like to host a Connecting Over Coffee, please email Kelvin Mack at kmack@pghnorthchamber.com.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

A Brief Overview of Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Authored by: Eileen Anderson, Director, Government Relations, Manufacturer & Business Association Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting is part of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) passed in 2020. The Manufacturer & Business Association was part of a coalition opposing CTA. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) established a BOI reporting requirement (BOI) under the CTA to capture money launderers. The reporting requirements take effect 1/1/2024 and will impact 32.6 million small businesses.

Beneficial Owner Test A beneficial owner is any individual who, directly or indirectly, exercises substantial control over the reporting company or owns or controls at least 25% of the ownership interests of the reporting company.

It includes legal entities with less than 20 employees and less than $5 million in gross receipts or sales in the previous year’s federal tax returns.

Legal Entities Include: • Corporations • Limited liability companies • Partnerships • Other entities created by filing a public document with a Secretary of State or similar office • General partnerships • Any similar entity formed under the laws of a foreign jurisdiction that opens an account Legal Entities Do Not Include: • Sole proprietorships or unincorporated associations Required Information for Reporting • Full legal name of the company • Any trade name/other name • Current address • Tax ID number of the company Details are required about the beneficial owners and/or company applicants who have significant control over the company or have at least 25% ownership.

• Full legal names • Dates of birth • Current address of that business, or their residential address.

• Any unique identifying numbers- for example, from a passport or driver's license BOI Reporting Rule Fact Sheet https://www.fincen.gov/boi-faqs …The rule aims to minimize burdens on small businesses…It is anticipated that it will cost reporting companies with simple management and ownership structures—approximately $85 apiece to prepare and submit an initial BOI report…

FinCEN will do the following: • Publish these forms well in advance of the effective date of the BOI reporting rule • Develop compliance and guidance documents to assist reporting companies • Issue a Small Entity Compliance Guide, in order to inform small entities about their responsibilities • Conduct extensive outreach to all stakeholders, including industry associations as well as secretaries of state and similar offices to ensure the effective implementation of the rule.

Problem FinCEN has not yet provided clarity to small businesses. There has been a lack of outreach and education to the small business community and few small businesses are aware of their requirements that begin in 4 months.

Solution Reach out to your Congressman now. Find your congressman at https://www.legis.state.pa.us/ Scroll down the left-hand side of the page and enter your business address.

Call them in their district offices (NOT WASHINGTON, D.C.) and be sure to give them your address so they know you are a constituent. A call is preferable to email.

Congressman Reschenthaler, Washington, PA 724-206-4800 Congressman DeLuzio, Bridgeville, 412-344-5583 Congressman Kelly, Butler, 724-282-2557 Congressman G.T. Thompson, Bellefonte, 814-353-0215 Kindly ASK them to delay by one year. We want Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) to delay by one year the January 1st, 2024 date for the initial reporting requirement.

This information was gathered from various resources. It is a view from 30,000 feet and is not meant to replace FinCEN guidance. A more detailed resource sheet will be available as the guidance becomes available.

PghNorthChamber.com | September

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PNRC Days of Caring By: Carolyn Keller (Curio412) , Sheila Talarico (Glade Run Foundation) and Cat Miceli (Gateway Rehab Services)

Last year, the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber launched our Days of Caring, a program designed to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism and demonstrate commitment to strengthening our communities and region. Coordinated by the Community Outreach Committee, the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber organizes multiple Days of Caring each year that connect volunteers in the beautification of our Chamber's footprint and support of our nonprofit partners.

When we think about volunteerism, we understand that creating purposeful opportunities to connect with the community can be a powerful asset for local businesses of all sizes. Since both consumers and employees often identify with a company’s commitment to the community, volunteering has the ability to boost employee engagement and retention as well as enhance company reputation. Not to mention, the impact that individual and organizational generosity has on making our communities a better place.

Each week, through Connections Meetings, Nonprofits North, Ribbon Cuttings, and so much more, the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber encounters wonderful businesses and nonprofits doing great work. We are committed to providing unique ways to bring these organizations together so that our region can build resilience and support one another. Through Days of Caring, Chamber members are able to give back, engage in employee team building, and network with other businesses.

The Community Outreach Committee organizes several events each year, providing members of the Chamber and the community with a satisfying volunteer opportunity. In 2022, the Chamber committed to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's Adopt a Highway program as the core element of Days of Caring. Chamber members and volunteers clean and beautify a two mile stretch of roadway located along Route 910 in Wexford/ Pine Township from North Chapel Road to Pearce Mill Road.

This year's remaining Adopt a Highway event is scheduled for October 6, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Volunteers meet at New Community Church and all supplies and safety equipment are provided. This year's Adopt a Highway Days of Caring are sponsored by Curio412. An additional Day of Caring event was held on July 28, 2023 in collaboration with PNRC member and nonprofit organization Gateway Rehab. Due to intense weather conditions, volunteer efforts were moved to indoor projects, with the anticipated outdoor volunteer efforts to promote campus beautification for patient experience enhancement being postponed for a future event. Please watch your email for the opportunity to sign up to participate in any of this year's Days of Caring!

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Presenting Sponsor:

Upcoming Days of Caring: October 6 All Days of Caring are scheduled 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Interested in participating in Days of Caring this year? Be on the lookout for signups on the Chamber website and social media!

PghNorthChamber.com | September

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Developing the Young Professional at La Roche University

EDUCATIONAL

Article by: Yvonne Hill, Coordinator of Career and Professional Development, La Roche University Traditional understanding of professionals flowed from the view that there was a problem or body of work that required specialized education and the application of judgment that could only be garnered through experience; a view of professionalism was expertise, that of being a technical expert in the field. In more recent times, it is taking on a broader meaning encompassing the behavior of all people in a profession. It is now less about technical expertise and highly regarded skill in a body of work, and is now more about the skill set that all people working in that field aim to possess to be successful.

According to NACE, the National Association of Colleges and Employers, professionalism is defined as “Knowing work environments differ greatly, understand and demonstrate effective work habits, and act in the interest of the larger community and workplace”. Professionalism is one of the eight Career Readiness Competencies identified by NACE to help broadly prepare young candidates for success in the workplace. In a recent survey, it was found that 86.9% of responding employers say professionalism is very or extremely important, and just 44.2% indicate that new college graduates are very or extremely proficient in it. Educators and advisors in higher education have the opportunity and responsibility to influence this area of development for the students they serve, thus increasing the likelihood they will follow a path to becoming happy, thriving professionals.

Of the eight NACE Career Readiness Competencies, I believe professionalism is where the rubber hits the road. Of course, many, if not all of them, are relatively intertwined, but professionalism is the framework of how we conduct ourselves overall, thus is the key to helping students develop the foundation for success. The sample behaviors we strive for under the professionalism umbrella are (1) Act equitably with integrity and accountability to self, others, and the organization, (2) Maintain a positive personal brand in alignment with organization and personal career values, (3) Be present and prepared, (4) Demonstrate dependability, (5) Prioritize and complete tasks to accomplish organizational goals, (6) Consistently meet or exceed goals and expectations, (7) Have an attention to detail, resulting in few, if any, errors in their work, (8) Show a high level of dedication toward doing a good job. To help each La Roche student progress in the development of these skills is no easy task, but I am up for the challenge.

My approach is to provide interventions for each of the eight desired sample behaviors woven throughout any and all career and professional development advising interactions with students throughout the year, across the campus, and in collaboration with many different campus departments. For example, when delivering classroom presentations, inclusive networking events, mock interviewing, and one on one appointments, professionalism behaviors can be introduced and reinforced. Specifically, in September we are hosting a Dress For Success event on campus. Students can select professional clothing to look their best for upcoming interviews and networking. We will have a “professionalism reception room” where students will check in and chat with a few local alumni and employers about things such as how to make a good impression, how to prepare for an interview, presenting yourself professionally and authentically, and practice their personal introductions. We will continue to weave the skills of professionalism throughout all of our campus activity.

The definition of professionalism and the expectation of the ‘young professional’ has changed. The responsibility belongs to the career advisor to engage student development around the nature and significance of professionalism as one of the eight career readiness competencies. At La Roche, we are dedicated to helping our students mature beyond the academics of the classroom; from student to young professional, by weaving skill-based interventions for professional development throughout all we do. This is exciting and challenging work that will help lead students on to a more meaningful and satisfying career journey!

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2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Committee Lisa Hunt—Board Chair U$X Federal Credit Union Mark Prentice—Past Chair Valpak of Western Pennsylvania Sheila Talarico—Vice Chair Glade Run Foundation Rakesh Unnithan—Chair Elect WesBanco Bank Carolyn Keller—Foundation Chair Curio412, LLC Kathleen Kuznicki—Secretary The Lynch Law Group Jada Lehman—Treasurer JIL Solutions Jim Boltz—President Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

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