May 2024 Chamber Newsletter

The Official Newsletter of the Troy Chamber of Commerce

C H A M B E R N E W S

Spotlight: United Way of Miami County

Our spotlight for this month is United Way of Miami County. Located at 116 W. Franklin St. in Troy, Ohio, United Way of Miami County fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Miami County.

This interview with the CEO of United Way of Miami County, Sean Ford.

Q: United Way was founded in 1922, and you had a merger in July of 2018 with Piqua, Tipp City, and Troy United Ways to form the United Way of Miami County. Can you tell me more about this?

A: The presence of three United Ways within one county was somewhat unusual, as typically there is one that covers multiple counties Merger discussions began in the early 1990s, but some concerns couldn't be overcome duetolingering"FridayNightRivalries"Similardiscussionsoccurredagainintheearly2000s,butfeelingswerehurt, leading to a retreat from the negotiating table Eventually, with the right directors and board members in place across all three United Ways, people were able to see the vision and the benefits of merging. One of the primary motivationsformergingwastheinefficiencyofofferingthreeseparateapplicationandinterviewprocessesforthe same agencies Consolidating into one entity would streamline operations for these agencies, reducing their workload significantly Additionally, merging eliminated boundary restrictions between agencies, allowing the merged United Way organization to extend services to previously underserved areas such as West Milton and Covington, which were not within our original zip code boundaries This expansion ensured that anyone in Miami Countycouldaccesstheservicestheyneeded,regardlessoftheirlocation

Q: What was the mission of United Way when it first began? And how does that compare to your mission now/has anything changed or expanded?

A: The mission remains steadfast: to strive for the advancement of the commongoodintherealmsofeducation,income,andhealth Thesethree primaryimpactareasofUnitedWayserveasthecornerstoneofourefforts and will continue to do so While our mission remains unchanged, the needs within our community have grown significantly More individuals require assistance and support than ever before Presently, our focus is on identifying avenues, whether through funding or partnering with agencies, to expand our impact even further and address the escalating needs withinourcommunity

Q: How many employees/volunteers does Miami Way of Miami County have?

A: We currently have a staff consisting of one full-time employee, myself, and one part-time employee, Heidi Levering-Sloan Additionally, we are supported by a dedicated team of 20 volunteers who serve on our board Thesevolunteersarehighlyactiveandengageinmonthlymeetingstocontributetoourorganization'smissionand initiatives

Q: What challenges has United Way of Miami County had to face and overcome?

A Inmy12yearswithUnitedWay,IwouldconsiderCOVID-19tobethemostsignificantchallengewe'vefaced We experiencedasubstantialfinancialimpact,withalossofapproximately$300,000,andwearestillintheprocessof recoveringfromthatsetback Moreover,thecommunity'sneedshaveintensified due to the effects of COVID-19 Despite these challenges, we are making gradual progress and working towards restoringourfinancialstabilitytopre-pandemiclevels

Q: What has been something that has been the most rewarding for you while working at United Way of Miami County?

A IwouldsaythemostrewardingaspectofmytimewithUnitedWayhasbeentheintroductionofthe211Program Thisinitiativehasbeenincrediblyimpactfulasitprovidesahumansocialservicehelplineaccessibletoindividuals in need beyond traditional office hours Emergencies don’t adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule, and now, with just a simpledialof211,peoplecanconnectwithalicensedcrisis-trainedsocialworkerwhocanguidethemtowardsthe assistance they require immediately Prior to the launch of this program, Miami County lacked access to the 211 Program, making it the largest county in Ohio without such a service Thanks to the efforts of Senator Beagle and the Miami County Commissioners, we were able to bring this program to our community Since its inception in September of 2020, the program has been a tremendous success, with over 3,000 calls received in Miami County alone

Q: What elements of your work do you think makes you so unique and so vital to the Troy/Miami Valley community?

A: In my personal view, one of the most distinguishing factorsofUnitedWayinMiamiCountyisourextensivereach and impact We encompass such a broad spectrum of organizations that individuals cannot donate to a larger entity within the county. We allocate even small donations, suchas$5.00,amongthirtydifferentorganizations,ensuring that every dollar is distributed effectively. We prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that each organization supported by United Way receives a share of every contribution, regardless of its size. This approach enables us to make a significant difference in the lives of numerous individuals and communities, rather than solely benefiting a single organizationorindividual

Q: You partner with numerous organizations; can you tell me more about that?

A: We collaborate with 35 agencies that apply for funding with us, working closely to ensure they meet the criteria to be recognized as United Way agencies. The donations we receive must be directed towards initiatives related to education, income, and health, maximizing our impact in Miami County. These agencies play a pivotal role in achievingourmission,andwerelyontheirpartnershiptomakeadifferenceinthecommunity. Additionally, we have forged partnerships with numerous businesses in Miami County, which conduct United Way campaigns These campaigns are instrumental in supporting our initiatives A significant portion, approximately 90%, of the funds raised come from payroll deductions, wherein employees contribute on a weekly or monthly basis This consistentsupportfrombothagenciesandbusinesses,facilitatedbydedicatedemployees,isessentialinenablingus tocarryoutourworkeffectively

Q: What is a need/goal that you would like to meet in the community?

A: Addressing the transportation challenge is a significant priority in Miami County. Many individuals are eager to workbutfaceobstaclesinaccessingtransportationtogettotheirjobs.Thisissuehasbecomeafocalpointforour efforts, and we are committed to doing everything within our power to support employees in reaching their workplaces,therebyenablingthemtocultivateasatisfyinglifestyle.

Expanding upon the existing transportation assistance programs in Miami County is paramount We aim to enhance these initiatives to ensure that individuals have reliable means of commuting to work By facilitating access to transportation, we empower individuals to improve their quality of life and contribute to the community by participatingintheworkforce

Q: What is something about United Way of Miami County that you think people would be surprised to learn about?

A:Manypeoplewouldbesurprisedtolearnthatourofficeoperateswithaleanstructure,minimizingoverheadcosts to maximize the impact of every dollar received Only 15% - 20% of our funds are allocated towards administrative expenses, allowing us to ensure transparency and efficiency in our operations We need to be as transparent as possible,asthisisoftennotwidelyknownaboutUnitedWay

Additionally, United Way is the largest privately funded nonprofit organization and is part of a global network that makes a significant impact not only in Miami County but also across the world This global reach underscores the scaleofoureffortsandthemagnitudeofourimpactoncommunitiesworldwide

Furthermore,weareexcitedtoannouncethelaunchofanewprograminthefallof2024calledStudentUnitedWay This initiative will involve two seniors from every high school in Miami County, who will convene monthly for seven months throughout the school year They will gain insights into the nonprofit sector in Miami County and learn about the distribution of impact grants throughout the county This program aims to empower young leaders and foster a cultureofphilanthropyandcommunityengagementamongstudentsinourarea

ClickheretolearnhowtodonatetoUnitedWay.

AESOhio

AES Ohio is a regional energy provider and an AES company. For more than 100 years, AES Ohio, a regulated electric utility, has been meeting the energy needs of over 527,000 customers across 24 counties in West Central Ohio. During its long history, AES Ohio has served its customers with the lowest rates in Ohio among investor-owned utilities.

Accelerating the future of energy, together

Working with you, we’re improving lives by delivering greener, smarter energy solutions the world needs. Our people are our energy and have transformed AES into the type of energy company that the world needs today, and in the future. Coming from all walks of life, our people share a passion for improving lives by improving the energy sector through innovation, collaboration and action.

Powering community

AES Ohio and our foundation invest more than $2.4 million annually in non-profits and programs that enhance the quality of life, promote economic development and protect the environment for our customers. The AES Ohio Foundation is the largest corporate foundation in the Dayton region in which every dollar is distributed locally. Since its founding in 1985, the AES Ohio Foundation has gifted more than $45.3 million in grants to the community. AES Ohio is a strong supporter of the Troy Area Chamber of Commerce and the Troy Development Council.

Connect with AES Ohio on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Learn more about how AES Ohio is accelerating the future of energy, visit aes-ohio.com.

Director: Chris Piper

Company: Superintendent of Troy City Schools

How long have you been in that role?

6 years

Whis it important to be part of the Chamber Board?

The Chamber has been an exellent partner with the schools. They support our teachers and help them better understand our business community. They also connect with our students and provide information for them about local workforce needs and opportunities.

Family: Nichole (wife), Jakob (son - 24), Lexi (daughter - 22), Diva (dog)

Favorite Local Spot: Troy City Schools!

MemberDiscoutProgam

Whether you need a simple or sophisticated solution to accept payments, Elavon can help you find the right tool to help you run your business. Elavon is a credit card processing program with US Bank, which as a Chamber Member, you are able to apply for. They make payment acceptance easy whither it is in person, online, or on-the-go. Elavon offers:

Flexible payment solutions and fast funding that will help you manage your business operation and cash flow.

Assists you with growth and profitability.

You have same-day funding seven days a week, credit card surcharging, advanced payment security, latest payment technology, and 24/7/365 access to help when you need it.

You can also monitor your account with their online customer portal.

For more information: Contact John Webb US Bank Payment Solutions Market Manager at 937-671-1606 or John.webb@usbank.com

ESSENTIAL TIPS

In short? Yes!

However, you’ll want to focus on keywords that tap into how your customers or users search and then use those terms naturally on your website.

Tip: Be sure you have Google Search Console set up to track and monitor keywords It's a free platform that can help identify exactly how your website appears in search results

HOW IS THE WAY PEOPLE SEARCH ONLINE CHANGING?

We’re seeing users become more conversational with search engines because responses are becoming more conversational. For example, searches like “nearest place to get coffee” are becoming more common. This makes understanding your customers and how they search even more important!

WHAT IS THE #1 TIP FOR BUSINESSES TO SHOW UP IN SEARCH IN 2024?

Fully comprehensive content is the key to showing up in search Google wants to reward websites that exhibit experience, expertise, authority and trust (or E-E-A-T) SEO is complex, so if your website is lacking traf c and conversions, our SEO audits and strategic plans are a great place to start.

OUR NEW TROY OFFICE IS OPEN!

With our main of ce located in nearby Minster, we’ve opened a satellite of ce in downtown Troy to better know and serve Miami and Montgomery counties. Whether you need a strategic marketing plan, creative campaign, marketing/sales coaching or technology solution, we’ll customize a plan to help achieve your revenue goals

By Tyler Louth, Chief Executive

Scan or click here to learn more about our new of ce:

By Casey Webster, My HR Extension

Are you feeling stuck in your search for top talent? Well, let's break through that barrier together. We're diving deep into the world of job search platforms because where you post your job listings really matters.

Let's start with Indeed, the heavyweight champion of job search websites, boasting a whopping 350 million searches every month. It's the go-to spot for job seekers everywhere, making it an essential destination for recruiters serious about finding top talent. When you combine the numbers from other big job sites like ZipRecruiter, CareerBuilder, SimplyHired, Monster, and Snagajob, they don't even come close to Indeed's reach.

Now, let's talk strategy. If you're on the hunt for just one perfect candidate, platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn are your best bet. They offer focused solutions tailored to your needs. And when it comes to filling niche roles, LinkedIn's targeted ads can be a game-changer, helping you zero in on the exact talent you're after.

But what if you're looking to fill multiple positions? That's where Indeed, Facebook, Instagram, and Google shine. With their massive user bases and advanced targeting capabilities, they make it easier than ever to attract a large pool of candidates.

When posting your job openings, it's crucial to consider your audience. Platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn are ideal for active job seekers, who are actively looking for opportunities and are more likely to engage with job postings directly. On the flip side, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google tend to attract more passive candidates—individuals who may not be actively searching for jobs but could be intrigued if the right opportunity comes along.

Whether you're in search of one perfect candidate or a whole team of them, there's a job search platform out there ready to help you find exactly what you need. So let's break through that talent search barrier and discover the power of job search platforms together.

Are you an HR Professional looking to connect with others in the HR role? Join us at the Quarterly HR Roundtable. The HR Roundtable meets quarterly for the purpose of education and networking. The HR Roundtable is open to anyone in the HR role.

The next meeting is Tuesday, July 16.

Welcome New Members! Welcome New Members!

Baby & Co. 4D

(937) 524-5414

223 E Main St.

Troy, OH 45373

Category: Services

Eloquence Catering (937) 606-4258

2900 Rugged Hill Rd

Casstown, OH 45312

Category: Catering

Genell’s Flowers (937) 773-3938

300 E Ash St.

Piqua, OH 45356

Category: Florists

Laber of Love Pet Rescue (937) 418-3517

Troy, OH 45373

Category: Not For Profit Agency

Mary Borton Movement (937) 231-1129

Troy, OH 45373

Category: Personal Services & Care

The Light on the Hill Venue

(937) 606-4258

2900 Rugged Hill Rd

Casstown, OH 45312

Category: Event Rental

Troy Skate Church (937) 919-8160

Troy, OH 45373

Category: Not For Profit Agency

Wigging Out Boutique (937) 418-6318

12 S Dorset Suite C

Troy, Ohio 45373

Category: Beauty Salons/Spas

Limitless Hauling & Junk Removal

(937) 418-6801

Troy, OH 45373

Category: Services

MemberDiscoutProgam TroyStrawberryFestival

It’s almost time for the Troy Strawberry Festival! May kicked off Strawberry Season in Troy, Ohio.

During the month of May, the Chamber is providing opportunities to participate in Strawberry Season and support local businesses. Strawberry Spirits Trail - As our Community is gearing up for the Troy Strawberry Festival take part in the Strawberry Spirits Trial that will be taking place throughout the City. Participating locations have created Strawberry Specialty drinks to get you in the berry spirit. The Strawberry Spirits Trail will be available May 11th thru June 2nd.

You can find a list of participating locations and a map online: https://www.troyohiochamber.com/strawberry-spirits-trail/

Strawberry Season - Follow the Chamber’s social media platform to learn about exciting strawberry items that local businesses are promoting as we approach the festival. #ShopLocal

VolunteersNeeded:

It takes an army of volunteers to welcome the many visitors that attend the Troy Strawberry Festival each year. We have opportunities for individuals or teams. Sign up below.

Beer Garden Volunteers (Beer Pourers & ID Check/Ticket Sales)

Strawberry Volunteers: Beer Garden Volunteers 2024 (signupgenius.com)

Shuttle Greeters (Greet visitors when the arrive to Troy, assist with getting them to the correct shuttle to return to parking lot)

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AAEA72FA3F4C07-49263962-shuttle#/

Information Booth (Answer questions, provide information, make announcements)

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AAEA72FA3F4C07-49263962-shuttle#/

If you have questions about the volunteer opportunities, contact the Chamber office at 937-339-8769.

Did you Know?

Did you know that the Chamber has a flexible meeting space for you?

Located in the heart of downtown Troy, our Conference Room is available to Chamber members as an investment benefit. The room includes flexible seating to accommodate meetings of varying sizes. You are able to do a board room style, classroom style, or theatre style (seating up to 30).

Room includes: projector (to be viewed on the wall)

TV with HDMI cord

Tables with wheels for room set up ease

Stackable chairs

Room Reservation Cost:

One Usage per month (up to 8 hours) included in membership investment Additional usage during the month

$25.00 per hour (for-profit)

$15 00 per hour (non-profit)

If you are interested in reserving this room, feel free to call the office or email schaney@troyohiochamber.com

MEMBER FACEBOOK GROUP

Did you know that the Chamber has a Members Only Facebook group?

The purpose of the group is to find connections, share current promotions, business needs and additional resources

LETS CONNECT

Follow the Chamber on social media platforms to stay connected

Use our hashtags: #MyTroyChamber #RememberAMember

Want us to share your post? Be sure to tag us in the post or in the comments and we will do our best to share and help you with added reach.