COMMERCEINSIGHT
WHY FOREST HEALTH MATTERS FOR ALL OF PLACER COUNTY
PRESIDENT MESSAGE
As I begin my journey as your 2025 Board President, I'm filled with both gratitude and optimism. Being a member of this incredible organization over the past 27 years, I've had the joy of watching our organization grow and adapt alongside our thriving and evolving community and region.
This year, as we launch our new three-year strategic plan, we're focusing on four key priorities:
1. Membership and Community Engagement - Retaining and growing our membership while actively engaging and promoting our community.
2. Advocacy and Political Action - Serving as the lead advocate as
CHAMBER STAFF
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
roseville.ca.us/electric
Bosch, Roseville
UPDATES ON ROSEVILLE'S NEWEST DEVELOPMENTS
TECONOMIC & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
he new soccer complex near Westpark High School is set to open later this year. It will feature 10 lighted artificial turf fields, Roseville’s largest universally accessible playground, concessions, a walking path, and ample parking. Naming rights were awarded to Placer Valley Tourism, with plazas named Roseville Automall North and Roseville Automall South.
The City invested in several improvements in 2024, including renovations at Weber Park, Johnson Pool, Maidu Skate Park, and the Duke Davis Water Feature. Three new parks opened in 2024: The Courts at Gibson Park for Pickleball, Campus Oaks Park, and Solaire Park. These efforts contributed to the Parks, Recreation & Libraries department being named a finalist for the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management for the third year.
In manufacturing, Bosch’s acquisition of TSI Semiconductors and a $1.5 billion investment in its Roseville site marked a milestone. This facility, employing 250 people, will produce 40% of the nation’s silicon carbide chips by 2026, becoming Bosch’s first chip manufacturing location outside Germany. In December, Bosch signed a preliminary agreement with the U.S. Department of Commerce for up to $225 million in funding through the CHIPS Act, co-authored by Congresswoman Doris Matsui.
Several businesses have expanded, opened, or are soon opening in Roseville, including Amazon Fresh, Trader Joe’s, Penumbra, Quick Quack, Nate’s Fine Foods, Alpine Rock Climbing, Electric Pickle, and Fieldwork Brewing. Additionally, Sutter and Kaiser hospitals have grown their facilities to serve the community better.
Road improvement projects are always underway in our growing city. Driving through Roseville, you’ve likely noticed the completion of the Washington/ All-American City Roundabout and the Roseville Parkway Extension, along with the current construction of the widening of Pleasant Grove Boulevard and the Blue Oaks and Westbrook Traffic Signals Project.
These developments highlight Roseville’s focus on supporting a vibrant, thriving community with improved infrastructure, expanded recreation, and robust economic growth.
-Krista Bernasconi, Mayor, City of Roseville
BIZ CORNER
NAVIGATING 2025: KEY HR COMPLIANCE UPDATES FOR CA EMPLOYERS
As we move into 2025, California employers must stay informed about several key labor and employment law updates. While these changes may not significantly disrupt daily operations, they require updates to employee handbooks and compliance measures.
Minimum Wage Increase
Effective January 1, 2025, California’s minimum wage will rise to $16.50 per hour, and the exempt salary threshold will increase to $68,640. Local ordinances may also increase. Action Item: Review employee compensation, including salaried exempt employees, to ensure compliance with wage and exemption requirements.
Victims of Crime Leave Expansion (AB 2499)
This law expands leave for employees affected by crime, including time off for medical attention, legal services, and safety planning. Action Item: Update your employee handbook to include the expanded Victims of Crime Leave policy.
Expanded Protections & Protected Classes (SB 1137)
This law strengthens discrimination protections by recognizing the concept of intersectionality, which addresses discrimination based on multiple combined characteristics. Action Item: Update your Anti-Discrimination and Harassment policies, and contact us for guidance on termination decisions.
Revisions to the CROWN Act (AB 1815)
The definition of race now includes traits such as hair texture and protective hairstyles. Action Item: Update your Anti-Discrimination and Harassment policies.
Paid Family Leave
Changes
(AB 2123)
Employees can no longer be required to use vacation time before accessing Paid Family Leave (PFL) benefits, and PFL wage replacement rates will increase. Action Item: Review your leave policies to ensure they align with these changes.
Employer Speech Limitations (SB 399)
Employers must allow employees to opt out of mandatory meetings discussing religious or political matters. Action Item: Provide employees the option to opt out of such meetings to avoid potential retaliation claims.
Driver’s License Requirement Discrimination (SB 1100)
Employers can only require a driver’s license if it’s essential for the job. Action Item: Review job descriptions to ensure driver's license requirements are necessary.
Independent Contractor Regulations (SB 988)
Freelance contracts must be written and include payment terms, and workers cannot face retaliation for asserting their rights. Action Item: Ensure contracts with freelance workers meet the new requirements.
Worker’s Compensation Attorney Fees (AB 1870)
Employers must notify employees of their right to consult an attorney regarding workers' compensation claims. Action Item: Update labor posters to reflect this change.
To ensure compliance with these updates, review and update handbooks, train employees, and stay informed about legislative changes. Stay ahead of these regulatory changes by reaching out to Blue Dream HR for a full compliance review, employee handbook updates, and guidance on implementation. Let us help you navigate the evolving HR landscape in 2025!
Jenny Nguyen Chief HR Officer, Blue Dream HR BlueDreamHR.com
Jenny@bluedreamhr.com
916-960-3493
STAY IN THE KNOW WITH THE ROSEVILLE CHAMBER
We have officially kicked off the year with our first Economic Development and Government Affairs Committee Meeting of 2025!
On Friday, January 24th, we held an election panel with distinguished speakers: Ryan Ronco, Placer County Clerk-Recorder-Registrar of Voters, Brian Jensen, Regional Vice President at Northern and Central California Hospital Council and Mark Smith, Lobbyist at Smith Policy Group. The panelists examined civic engagement in Placer County, voter-turnout in the 2024 Election and analyzed legislative responses to combat misinformation, such as the creation of bills focused on mitigating the impacts of AI. Attendees asked critical questions and learned more about how Placer County has sustained a successful voter turnout rate, which was 82% in November’s Election, through County programs such as the Student Poll Worker Program and the High School Voter Outreach Program.
For our next meeting on February 28th, we will be holding a panel on Placer County Tourism. This panel will feature industry leaders: Jill Geller, Director of Parks, Recreation & Libraries, at the City of Roseville, Kim Summers, Chief Executive Officer at Placer County Tourism, and Rob Haswell, Chief Executive Officer at Visit Placer. At the meeting, the panelists will share an overview of the state of tourism in Placer County and highlight exciting, upcoming developments to look out for.
These meetings take place on the 4th Friday of every month at Randy Peters Catering & Event Center and are free to attend. The purpose of these meetings is to discuss and influence local policies, development, business, community, and economy. We look forward to seeing you there!
-Joey Tran, Public Policy Coordinator
Your Event, Elevated
From intimate celebrations to large gatherings, we’re here to make every moment extraordinary.
Elegant Event Center
The perfect backdrop for your special occasions
Exceptional Catering Menus cra�ted to delight every guest
Full Bar Service
Signature drinks, expert service
Individual Meals
Expertly cra�ted, ready-to-enjoy meals
Limited-Time Menus
Celebrate with seasonal �lavors
Symphoneo Consulting
Edward Jones - Jon Beneke
Roseville Center for Interventional Psychiatry
Impact Wealth Management
Designs With You In Mind Inc.
One Balloon at a Time
Delish Pizza
HomeSmiles Sacramento
Q1227
Beat the Room
American Society of University Women
Sequoia Grve Gracious Retirement Living
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF THOMAS CHIROPRACTIC
In 2005, Dr. Jared Thomas was ready to venture out on his own and start his brand new practice. He had spent the last two years learning from a good chiropractor in the small town of Marysville. He and his young but growing family consisting of his wife and three boys, the youngest being two months old, lived in Roseville, and the plan was always to practice in this businessfriendly community. He bought an existing practice that was struggling and had no active patients. Within a year, he was seeing over 100 patients per week. The Roseville Chamber of Commerce added to his success as joining was one of the first priorities on Dr. Thomas' list.
After five years, the practice moved two blocks down Sunrise Avenue. With a new location and some great success using social media, Dr. Thomas was able to double his practice. He also developed a style of practice that allows everyone to conveniently receive quality care that is affordable to all. With the increase in success, Dr. Thomas needed help. He had several associate doctors of chiropractic. In 2015, he was joined by Dr. Eric Wagnon. With Dr. Wagnon, the practice has reached new heights, helping one to two hundred patients a day improve spine and joint function and better nervous system communication.
Dr. Thomas feels it is important to not just serve his patients but also to give back to the community. He has been a Chamber ambassador, including serving two years as the chairman, and was honored to be voted Ambassador of the Year. In addition, he served on the Chamber Board of Directors and was president in 2017. He continues to support the chamber and serves in the Rocklin Community as a planning commissioner. He and his wife, Michal, have six children. He is active in his church and serves in leadership and continues to enjoy serving the community as he has for the past 20 years.
-Dr. Jared Thomas D.C., Thomas Chiropractic
GARDEN OF EAT'N: THE POWER OF FRESH
At Garden of Eat'n, we believe in the power of fresh, organic ingredients that nourish both body and soul. Our farm-to-fork fast-casual restaurant invites you to savor the extraordinary flavors of our crunchy, fresh organic vegetables, paired perfectly with responsibly sourced meats. Indulge in our Argentinian wild-caught red shrimp or enjoy the tenderness of our all-natural organic chicken.
But that’s just the beginning! Dive into our mouthwatering creamy mac and cheese varieties, or opt for our healthy wraps and salads that are as delicious as they are nutritious. Experience culinary creativity with our unique rice bowls and indulge in Italian Piadina recipes that will transport your taste buds.
Garden of Eat'n isn't just another salad shop. With 63 distinct house recipes to choose from, you can customize your meal to your heart's content. Feeling adventurous? Create your own dish from scratch, exploring vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients that exceed all expectations.
Join us at Garden of Eat'n, where your meal is crafted with passion and served with a smile. Taste the difference that freshness makes!
-Ashkan Shahsavari, Owner, Garden of Eat'n
NEW MEMBERS OCT. - DEC. 2024
4 Heroes Grill
Aegis Senior Residence
Antelope Community Tennis Association
Aqua-Tots Swim School Roseville
Capitol Regions Consulting
Dane Property Inspections, LLC
Disc Wellness Chiropractic
Erik's Delicafe
Erkel Law, P.C.
Eve Milan Designs
EverBank
Five Star Car Wash Detail & Gas
Franco & Sons Construction, LLC
Golden Rose Pharmacy
Golden Stars
Golden State Patient Care
Good Life Inspections
Hot Sisters Yoga
isolved HCM LLC
Juice It Up!
Linnsey's Cleaning Services
LL Law firm
Luz Era Aesthetics and Wellness
McDonald's
Medland Construction
MISI Community Solutions
Monolith Financial Group
Moving Solutionz
Peak Demand Inc
Placer County Notary Services
Precizion Recycling and Disposal
Response Structural Engineers Inc.
Robert Bosch Semiconductor LLC
Roseville Center for Interventional Psychiatry
Roseville Public Cemetery District
Roseville Registration Services
Schooley Mitchell
Serenity Accounting Solutions
Sierra Mental Wellness Group
Smog Inspection Station LLC
SOURCE Investments LLC
Strategy & Innovation Institute
The Blasting Lab
The Hignell Companies
The Tutoring Center, Roseville
Unibella Aesthetics
V.V.E. Consulting & Accounting
Very Smooth Auto Glass
Vicente's Web Design
ZenBusiness
RENEWING MEMBERS
OCT. - DEC. 2024
1 YEAR PLUS
4Honor
Advanced Business Roundtable
Airco Mechanical Inc.
Alger Coaching
AppleOne Employment Services
Automotive Service of Roseville
Beauty Eclipse Studio
Ben's Barketplace - West Roseville
Blue Dream HR
Blue Ribbon Professional Network (BPRN)
California Closets
Capital Wealth Planners, LLC
Casa Ramos
Compassion Planet
Edible Arrangements
Edward Jones - Greg Williams
Edward Jones - Shawn Plunkett, AAMS® ,CRPC®
eXp Realty - Joe Flores
Farmers Ins - Elizabeth Guerrero
Freedom Through Education
All Quality Graphics LLC
Basin Street Properties
Beautiful Smiles Dentistry
Blue House Korean Restaurant
Roseville, Inc.
Bounty Hunters Grind & Grill
Caporusso Communications
Carlson Tax Consultants
Cheryl Cobbin Business Solutions
CID Consortium, LLC
Acorn Arboricultural Services Inc.
Anthem United Homes Inc.
Assistance League of Greater Placer
Barnett & Linn, Attorneys at Law
Capitol Public Finance Group, LLC
Celebrations! Party Rentals & Tents
Designing Dreams Flooring & Remodeling-Folsom
Exchange Bank
A Touch of Understanding, Inc.
AlphaGraphics
Downtown Roseville Merchants, Inc.
Eureka Union School District
Five Star Bank
Foothills Habitat For Humanity
Best Western / Roseville Inn
Blue Oak Dental - Roseville
Bright Beginnings Welcoming Services
Bud's Dry Cleaning
Consolidated Communications
Corporate Design Group, Inc.
Freddi Eberhart & Associates, Inc.
Healthbridge Global
Heartland Payment Systems
HomeAid Sacramento
Inspired Real Estate Group Inc (DRE02151123)
iStreet Solutions
J Turner Events & Catering
Jeremy Sookhoo
JR Conkey & Associates
K. Sawa Marketing Int'l Inc.
KWA Safety & HazMat Consultants, Inc.
Lakeside Beverages
Landscape & Tree Company
Liminal Consulting & Coaching
Lincoln Potters Baseball Club, LLC.
Mark IV Capital
Martzen Holistic Good
Matthew Maynard, Placer County Assessor
McKenzie & Fujikawa LLP
Medical Career College of Northern California
Meraki Public Affairs
Daycation for Seniors
Flour Dust Pizza Co LLC
FUSE3
Gen XYZ Financial Services
Goose Port Insperity
Itemgrabber
Jersey Mike's Subs - Thrive Dr. Laborers Local 185 (LiUNA)
Latino Leadership Council
Lighthouse Window Cleaning Inc.
Exquisite Travel Group
Folsom Ready Mix, Inc.
Fuhrman Leamy Land Group
Hospital Council of Northern & Central California
Interwest Consulting Group
Jensen Smith, CPAs
Jonathan Chan, DDS - West Roseville Family Dental
Law Offices of Maria E. Valdez
Lilani Wealth Management
GoodLeap, LLC
Karen T. Peak CPA
Laverty Chacon Commercial Real Estate
Legends at Woodcreek Golfcourse
Maidu Village Senior Apts. II
Mojica Architecture Studio
Molly Maid of Placer County
& Associates Kiwanis of Roseville Law Office of Marcus J. Lo Duca, P.C.
Maidu Village Senior Apts. I
Moore Messina Webb, LLP
NG Alexander Real Estate Development LLC
Merryhill School
Merus Law, APC
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
MIR Printing and Graphics
Mission Courier, Inc.
MoJoe's Roseville
New York Life / Eagle Strategies, LLC
Oak Valley Community Bank
Oakmont of Westpark
Panattoni Development Company
Patriot Pest Management
Pioneer Community Energy
Placer Artists Tour
Placer County Vintners Association
Point Equity
Porter's House of Draft
Reynolds Law LLP
Roots Real Estate
Sacramento International Airport
Sagent
Sales Growth Today
Sam's Club
Scott and Baldwin CPAs
Security Public Storage-Galleria
Make A Wish Northeastern & Central CA and Northern NV
Moksa Brewing Company
Nick Sadek Sotheby's International Realty
Olympus Park Apartments LLC
Omni Structures & Management, Inc.
Placer County Transportation
Planning Agency
Placer County Visitors Bureau
Mr. Transmission
Oak Ridge Healthcare Center
One Light Ahead
Placer Land Trust
Premier Graph-X Inc.
Primerica Financial - Joann Caetano
Quarry Ponds Town Center
Red Dog Shredz
Roseville Crime Stoppers
Roseville Police Activities League
MUN CPAs
Peterson Watts Law Group, LLP
Placer Independent Resource Services, Inc.
Placer Valley Tourism
Psomas
Sierra Central Credit Union
State Farm Insurance - Julie
North State Building Industry Association
Pacific Gas & Electric Company
PRIDE Industries
Sierra View Country Club
Sierra View General Contractor
Sinclair, Wilson, Baldo & Chamberlain Attorneys at Law
St. Albans Country Day School
Blvd
Sierra College Self Storage
Sierra Health & Wellness
Stonebridge Veterinary Wellness
Striving For Achievement
Foundation
Sunrise Energy Solutions
Sunshine Audiology, Inc.
The Glass Guru
The Joint Chiropractic
The Oaks Outpatient Behavioral
Health Center
The Rising Zone
Titan Property Management
Triscapes Commercial Landscaping LLC
VillaSport Athletic Club and Spa
Western Placer Waste
Management Authority
Whitney Oaks Insurance Services Inc.
Recology
ReNew Stores
Rocklin City Councilmember Bill
Halldin
Roseville Executive Suites
Roseville Urban Forest Foundation
Starbucks Coffee Company
WiZiX Technology Group
Roseville Roofing
SAFE Credit Union
Sierra College Foundation
Sproul Trost LLP
Treasurer-Tax Collector Placer County
True North Consulting, LLC
DeCarlo, Agent
TRC Trading Corporation
Union Pacific Railroad
St. Vincent De Paul Society
Summit Roofing Company The Press-Tribune
Williams + Paddon Architects + Planners, Inc.
INSTALLATION DINNER 2025
On January 16th, we gathered for a night of community celebrations and entertainment at our 2025 Installation Dinner. During the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed champagne & arcade games at our 80s themed bar, sponsored by Randy Peters Catering & Event Center.
After dinner, we kicked off the awards ceremony, celebrating the community leaders who’ve helped shape our region. Among these leaders are our past Chamber Presidents, whose leadership have transformed the Chamber and the local business environment into what we enjoy today. The pinnacle of this leadership is embodied by our dear friend and Past President, Aldo Pineschi.
Aldo’s profound understanding of Placer County, coupled with his political expertise and dedication to our community, made him a trusted advisor, consultant, and true changemaker. With pride, we announced the new Aldo Pineschi Leadership Roseville Scholarship and the new Aldo Pineschi Civic Leadership Award in his memory. The inaugural award was presented to Placer County Sheriff Wayne Woo, whose leadership has a lasting impact on our community, making him truly deserving of this honor.
It was an honor to recognize Sheriff Woo and ALL of our Award Winners:
Ambassador of the Year:
Dave Morrow - Mission Courier, Inc.
Ryan Haney Referral Partner of the Year Award: Vincent Gonzales - Keller Williams Realty Roseville
Volunteer of the Year:
Anne Chacon - Kaiser Permanente Medical Center
President’s Award:
Darlene Cullivan - The Gathering Inn
ATHENA Award:
Lisa Peters - Randy Peters Catering & Event Center
Edward M. Friedman Community Service Award: Renee Perez - DVS Appraisals, Inc.
Milestone Award: Old Town Pizza 25 Years of Business
We concluded the evening with Mayor Krista Bernasconi installing our 2025 President, Ann Bouchard, and our Board of Directors. With their leadership, 2025 is sure to be one to remember!
-Maddi Zacher, Marketing Coordinator
UPCOMING EVENTS
2/19 Chamber Orientation
8:30a.m. - 10:00a.m.
2/26 Business Bootcamp
9:00a.m. - 10:30a.m.
2/27 Chamber Breakfast
7:30a.m. - 9:30a.m.
2/28 Econ. Gov. Meeting
8:00a.m. - 9:15a.m.
3/04 EDG
8:45a.m. - 10:15a.m.
3/05 Happy Hour
4:30p.m. - 6:30p.m.
3/11 Chamber Luncheon
11:30a.m. - 1:00p.m.
3/14 Ignite Offsite
2:00p.m. - 5:00p.m.
3/19 Chamber Orientation
8:30a.m. - 10:00a.m.
3/25 Event Planning Roundtable
8:30a.m. - 10:00a.m.
3/26 Business Bootcamp
9:00a.m. - 10:30a.m.
3/27 Chamber Breakfast
7:30a.m. - 9:30a.m.
4/01 EDG
8:45a.m. - 10:15a.m.
4/02 Joint Econ. Gov. Meeting
8:00a.m. - 9:30a.m.
Scan for more events:
FEATURED AMBASSADOR
Ibecame an ambassador on the highest recommendation from my Boss Eric McIntosh who was an Ambassador 10 years ago. And as a young professional, it seemed like a great way to get involved with the business community of Roseville.
What I like about the Chamber is the fact that it brings the business community of Roseville together. We live in a world where we can communicate instantaneously but struggle to connect and the Chamber really helps people connect.
WiZiX Technology Group is a trusted provider of office technology solutions specializing in copiers, printers, digital document management, business phones systems, and EV Chargers, serving Northern California and Northern Nevada. Whether you're looking to upgrade your office equipment or explore advanced document management systems, WiZiX delivers reliable and innovative solutions.
-Ryan Huffman, WiZiX
IGNITE CORNER: NEW YEAR, NEW CHAIR!
It’s my privilege to be Chair of the Ignite Young Professionals this year, carrying on an incredible legacy from leaders across Roseville and South Placer. In fact, at our first event of the year we had some Ignite “alumni” share what inspired them to get involved and take a leadership role within the Chamber. I also want to take this opportunity to thank my predecessor Vincent Gonzales, for his time and dedication to helping Ignite grow and making it such a welcoming environment for all.
Looking ahead, Ignite has a great lineup of events including service opportunities, learning more about why our community is a safe place to live and do business, watch how wine is made in our region, and of course The Bash!
One of my goals this year is to place more emphasis on leadership development and mentorship programming. Ignite has long been known for its stellar networking events, but I think it’s time for us to take the next step and really “spark” the leadership potential I know our region’s young professionals have. I look forward to working with our incredible Leadership Council this year and I hope to see you at an Ignite event soon!
- Emily Hoffman, 2025 Ignite Chair, Western Placer Waste Management Authority
WHY FOREST HEALTH MATTERS
FOR ALL OF PLACER COUNTY
Forests aren’t just for hikers and campers—they’re the heartbeat of Placer County. Whether you live in a busy urban neighborhood or run a business in town, the health of our forests impacts your everyday life in ways you might not realize. At Placer County Water Agency (PCWA), we’re working to protect these natural landscapes because their well-being is tied directly to yours. Here’s why forest health matters for everyone.
Protecting Our Water Supply
Forests are nature’s water filter. The Sierra Nevada forests in Placer County collect, store, and filter the water that flows to cities like yours. When forests are healthy, they slow down snowmelt, allowing water to seep into the ground and flow steadily into our rivers and reservoirs. But if a wildfire scorches the landscape, ash and debris clog waterways, and the soil can no longer absorb and hold water. This affects both the quantity and quality of water available to homes and businesses.
Supporting Reliable Water Systems
Healthy forests mean reliable water. Wildfires can damage the infrastructure that carries water to your city, leading to disruptions and costly repairs. By keeping forests healthy and reducing fire risks, we’re also helping ensure that your city’s water supply remains steady and dependable.
Better Air Quality for All
If you’ve ever experienced wildfire smoke, you know how bad the air can get. Poor air quality isn’t just unpleasant, it’s dangerous. Wildfires release massive amounts of smoke and harmful particles into the air. During recent wildfires, Placer County experienced some of the worst air quality in North America, reaching the hazardous air quality index of 500, forcing residents to stay indoors and businesses to adjust operations.
PCWA’s proactive forest management reduces wildfire risks by managing vegetation, helping prevent catastrophic fires, keeping our air cleaner, and benefiting both the environment and public health.
Preserving Recreation and Economy
Placer County’s forests are both a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and a major economic driver. A recent El Dorado Water Agency study found that working landscapes in the Upper American River Watershed generate nearly $15 billion annually for the local economy. Hundreds of thousands visit each year for hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, and whitewater rafting—a major draw on the Middle Fork American River. The PCWA watershed alone has at least 14 designated campgrounds, with countless more in surrounding forests and foothills.
When wildfires devastate these landscapes, it’s not just trees that burn—local businesses, tourism, and outdoor opportunities take a hit, too. Protecting our forests keeps Placer County beautiful, vibrant, and a top destination for recreation. Learn more at MiddleForkFun.com.
Benefits Reach Far Beyond the Forest
Forests don’t just benefit rural areas; they protect everyone in Placer County, including cities south of our service area. At PCWA, we’re investing in forest health projects that reduce wildfire risks, protect watersheds, and create a more sustainable future for everyone. You don’t need to live near a forest to care about one—because when forests thrive, so do we all.
-Brie Coleman, Communications Manager, PCWA
BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS
At Feeding the Foothills (FTF), formerly Placer Food Bank, we believe addressing hunger is a shared responsibility. When families face food insecurity, stress increases, affecting their ability to perform at work and contribute to the local economy. Through our “Power of We” philosophy, we partner with businesses to alleviate food insecurity, stabilize families, and strengthen our local workforce.
Here’s how we do it:
We invite local businesses to engage with our Corporate Volunteer Partnership Program, blending philanthropy with employee engagement. We know that employees involved in meaningful workplace giving and volunteering are 75% more likely to stay longer with their employers, with 87% reporting a better perception of their company. These sponsorship opportunities support hunger relief efforts and provide team-building experiences for your staff:
$1,500: Two-hour volunteer shift for 10-15 participants
$3,000: Adds newsletter recognition and social media highlight
$4,500: Includes team-building activity and logo on Donor Wall
With increased costs and declining funding, the need for food assistance and community partnerships has never been greater. In 2023, food insecurity in our region rose by 33%, while private donations dropped by more than 12%. Your support offsets these challenges, ensuring we can continue to deliver essential resources to families in need.
For more information, contact Heidi Knost, Outreach Coordinator, at volunteer@feedingthefoothills.org or (916) 783-0481 ext. 131. Visit feedingthefoothills.org to learn more!
-Dave Martinez, Executive Director, Feeding the Foothills
EPIC: WHERE BUSINESS MEETS CLASSROOM
This year, the Roseville Area Chamber of Commerce is launching the Employer Provided Innovation Challenges (EPIC) program, a new initiative from the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation aimed at connecting local students with businesses to tackle real-world problems. In partnership with educators and business leaders, the Chamber is working hard to create a program that gives students hands-on experience while helping local companies find fresh, innovative solutions.
Through the EPIC program, businesses in the Roseville area will present students with specific challenges— ranging from product development ideas to improving customer service or streamlining operations. Split into two teams, students will collaborate directly with employers, using their academic knowledge to come up with practical solutions that have a real impact, while competing with their peers. This type of workbased learning not only helps students apply what they've learned in the classroom but also gives them valuable skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and communication.
For local businesses, EPIC is an opportunity to tap into a pool of creative, tech-savvy students who can offer new perspectives on everyday challenges. It also provides companies with a chance to identify potential future employees and build stronger ties with the community. At the same time, students gain crucial realworld experience that helps prepare them for future careers.
We are excited to see how businesses and students collaborate on these challenges and the solutions that are identified!
-Marlo Bourland, Workforce Development Coordinator
