Your Chamber at Work - January 18, 2022

FROM THE KC CHAMBER'S PRESIDENT AND CEO

It’s one of the most moving ceremonies one can witness – and you’re invited.

On Thursday, January 27 at 10 a.m., people from 61 different countries will become United States citizens, and the ceremonies will be live-streamed on YouTube. Their countries of origin include Afghanistan, Canada, the Czech Republic, Finland, Greece, India, Mexico, Nepal, South Korea, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Vietnam, and Venezuela, just to name a few.

Their path to becoming citizens is a long and arduous one. They must be at least 18 years of age, have been a resident of the U.S. for three to five years, of good moral character, pass an English language test that evaluates reading, writing, and speaking skills, and pass a civics test that shows their knowledge of U.S. history and government (a test many native-born Americans would find difficult to pass), and an interview. The final requirement is demonstrated at the naturalization ceremony, when they recite the Oath of Allegiance, affirming that they believe, support, and are willing to defend the principles of the U.S. Constitution.

The 250 individuals will take the oath in front of families and friends – it’s a very joyous occasion. You can take part virtually on the 27th. I had the privilege of speaking at a previous ceremony and it was one of the most moving events I have witnessed. If you have a chance, I know you would enjoy viewing it. Here’s the link.

SMALL BUSINESS SUPERSTARS

Submit your Small Business Superstars today to help the KC Chamber recognize all the small businesses that keep our KC economy moving forward – even during two years of a pandemic. If you’re a small business, you’ve automatically been submitted. Take this time to submit other small businesses in the community – Chamber member or not. You have until February 7. Have multiple submissions? Use this link. Meanwhile, you can learn how being named a Small Businesses Superstar has had a positive impact on one area business, the Kansas City Mom’s Collective. Read their Superstar Spotlight here and be inspired to submit your Small Business Superstars!

CHAMBER HOSTS COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE

With our hospitals under tremendous pressure strain from the latest COVID-19 surge, one thing we can do to help is to donate blood. The KC Chamber is pleased to host a community blood drive on Wednesday, January 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in our Chamber Board Room located on the first floor of historic Union Station,  next door to Pierpont’s. There is a dangerous shortage of blood and the Community Blood Center needs help. Donors can register here and read more about what to expect.

SUPPORT HEALTHCARE WORKERS WITH SHINE FOR THE FRONTLINE

Chamber member U.S. Engineering invites you to Shine for the Frontline. On Wednesday, January 19, 2022, at 7 p.m., join area businesses and individuals by flashing your lights, clapping, cheering, and making noise for a full 5 minutes to say thank you to healthcare workers around the country. Take a video of yourself or someone you’re with and post it to social media with the hashtag #ShineForTheFrontline. The KC Chamber is one of several businesses and organizations who have committed to supporting this effort. You can read more from U.S. Engineering here.

NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING: MADE IN KC

Looking for a great item to show your KC pride? Join us at our next Neighborhood Networking Friday, January 28, 8:30 to 10 a.m. for Neighborhood Networking at Made In KC! Find t-shirts, mugs, crafts, jewelry, sauces, coffees and more – all created by Kansas City makers – at Made In KC’s Lee’s Summit location, 860-U, NW Blue Parkway. What began as a pop-up at Prairiefire Museum in 2015 has grown into 10 locations in every corner of the Metro. Register here. Neighborhood Networking is free for KC Chamber members and $15 for non-members.