Tuesday, March 30, 2021
This e-newsletter is brought to you by Chairman's Circle member:
What's Your Personal Brand?
Do you have a personal brand? Could you explain it to someone else? Personal branding is important even in your current role, not just when job hunting. You bring your personal brand with you wherever you go and it effects your success. Join Heather Christensen, PE and Mitra Engan of Engan Associates for an interactive workshop to learn how to build your personal brand successfully and market yourself.

Here’s what you can expect to learn:
  • How to hold yourself accountable for your goals
  • Tips and tricks for a rocking an interview
  • How to answer difficult questions
Mark Your Calendar!
Support Needed for Broadband in Rural Kandiyohi Co.
Thank you for your interest in the Broadband Project for rural Kandiyohi County - specifically this time, for Dovre, Mamre, St. Johns and Arctander Townships. The grant process is very competitive and local voices with specific reasons why this is important is helpful. Please take a few minutes to write a letter of support for the grant to the Minnesota Office of Broadband Development. The cost of the project is over $6 Million. The EDC will be applying for a grant of around $2.5 million. 

Attached are a few sample letters. Please address your letter to Commissioner Grove but send it to connie@kandiyohi.com to include with the grant application. For any questions on the project or letters of support, please contact Connie Schmoll at (320) 522-1805.
EDC Celebrates 30 Years of Membership
Congratulations to Aaron Backman and Connie Schmoll of Kandiyohi County & City of Willmar EDC on 30 years of membership! Their mission is to be a catalyst for economic growth of the greater Kandiyohi County Area. The EDC carries out its mission by advocating for the local business community, retaining talented workforce through customized support, recruiting targeted industries best suited for the economy, and marketing the Willmar Lakes Area as West Central Minnesota's Business Hub.
Free Mental Health Presentation
The past year has brought massive changes to our daily lives and relationships. Learn how family members are impacted by each other's mental health and how you can help your loved ones. Plus, learn about tips for self-care and why taking time for your mental health is so important.
Chamber ADvantage
The deadline for the May Chamber ADvantage is Thursday, April 15th. If your business would like to be included in this member-to-member marketing that reaches 700 members and their employees, please contact the Chamber to make your reservation. Space is limited and is available on a first come, first serve basis.
Anti-Racism Statement Survey Results
The Chamber sent out a survey to all primary contacts concerning the proposed Vision 2040 Inclusion Sub-Committee’s Anti-Racism Statement that community members, businesses, and organizations have been asked to consider signing. Below is an overview the responses.

Surveys sent: 428
Survey emails opened: 166
Responses received: 68
Support the statement: 50
Oppose the statement: 13
Unsure about the statement: 5
Join Us for a Community Chat
Join us for a virtual discussion and legislative update with Representative Dave Baker and special guest Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. Registration is required in advance. A personalized link will be emailed to all registrants.
Upcoming Chamber Connections
April 2 - No Chamber Connection
April 9 - No Chamber Connection
April 16 - Kandiyohi County Area YMCA
April 23 - Willmar Electric
April 30 - Host Needed!
Coming Up this Week at Your Chamber
Thursday, April 1, 10:00am - First Dollar - NutriPrep
Thursday, April 1, 10:30am - First Dollar - Money Matters Accounting Solutions - Chamber
Thursday, April 1, 2:00pm - 30 Year Membership Milestone - Walmart
Tuesday, April 6, 8:30am - neXt Leadership Team Meeting - Chamber

Interested in learning more about one of the Chamber volunteer committees? Contact the Chamber to "test drive" a committee(s) of interest and sit in on one of the meetings to see if its a good fit for you!
Stay Connected with YOUR Chamber!
 (320) 235-0300