Your Chamber at Work - December 14, 2020

FROM THE KC CHAMBER'S PRESIDENT AND CEO

We need your help. We’re sending out a COVID-19 Business Response Survey today to better understand what you and our other members are currently experiencing as the pandemic drags on. The survey is a joint effort of the Chamber, Kansas City Area Development Council, the Black Chamber of Greater Kansas City, Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce, and KCSourceLink.

The survey is anonymous, though you can identify your business if you so choose. We do ask questions about the size of your business, whether it’s classified as essential, and other general kinds of questions.

We’re interested in your answers on a variety of subjects. What financial impact has your business undergone? What do you see as your top priorities for future assistance – if needed? What are your immediate concerns? Do you have access to the mental health resources you need for your employees?

This isn’t a scientific survey – it’s more a snapshot of how our region’s businesses are coping, what they expect in the future, and what they need to continue in operation. We’ll use the results of this survey, as we have our previous two business surveys, to help our Congressional delegation better understand conditions our businesses are facing. We’ll also use the results to help determine the steps the Chamber can take to respond.

Meanwhile, here’s the link to the survey. We appreciate your participation.

WOMEN TOGETHER: POWER OF COMMUNITY AND SISTERHOOD

There’s still time to save your spot for an inspiring and informative program from the Chamber’s Executive Women’s Leadership Council, Small Business Programming, and some of KC’s strongest women advocates, influencers, and disruptors. Register now for Women Together: Power of Community and Sisterhood, Tuesday, December 15, 3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Lauren Conaway of InnovateHER will moderate a panel of KC women who will discuss the immeasurable personal and professional impact of joining or creating your own sisterhood. Register here for this free event. Participants include Klassie Alcine of KC Common Good, Allison Berey of M:CALIBRATE, Thalia Cherry of Cherry Co., Julie Pierce of Henderson Engineers, Sherry Turner of OneKC for Women, and Kelly Wilson of Weave Gotcha Covered.

FREE LEGAL AID FOR JACKSON COUNTY HOMEOWNERS

COVID-19 has led to a 500% increase in homeowners who are behind on their mortgage payments. But there is help. Legal Aid of Western Missouri is providing free legal assistance to Jackson County, Missouri residents when it comes to forbearance, mortgage/loan modifications, Chapter 13 bankruptcies, or other legal solutions. Check out the Legal Aid website for more information on this and other services in the 40-county coverage area. Legal Aid of Western Missouri provides free civil legal services to low-income and vulnerable people. Interested individuals can call (816) 474-6750 to apply.

KC RESTAURANT WEEK

Update your calendars now and get your taste buds ready. KC Restaurant Week is January 8–17. The 10-day event is the perfect opportunity to check out those great new restaurants you’ve been meaning to try. From dine-in to delivery to carryout, this year’s restaurant group is ready to serve, any way you feel most comfortable. 10% of all sales will benefit The Don Bosco Centers right here in Kansas City. For a full list of participating restaurants, including several of your fellow members of the KC Chamber, and more details, click here.

SHOP LOCAL AND SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES

The holidays are the perfect time to support small businesses in the metro area. You’re not just getting a great gift, you’re supporting your neighbors and your community. From restaurants to retail and other services, we have resources to connect you with small businesses. Our KC Chamber Membership Directory lets you search by member name or category, and will connect you to their website and phone number. KCSourceLink’s shop local directory is another great spot to find small businesses, and here’s some information from KCSourceLink on the benefits of shopping local. Don’t forget to use #ShopLocalKC to support small businesses online!