Your Chamber at Work - September 14, 2020

FROM THE KC CHAMBER'S PRESIDENT AND CEO

Two COVID-19 related items for you today:

Get your flu shot! The health experts we’ve been talking to all agree: flu shots are critical this season.  Medical officials say they’re expecting a double-barreled virus season this year, and getting a flu shot is essential. They’re concerned about the impact on our health care system, if they have to deal with both COVID-19 and influenza at the same time.

The situation is made even more difficult because working-from-home protocols mean that employers aren’t offering in-office flu shots this year, so the responsibility is on all of us individually. Check with your doctor, or visit one of the many pharmacies that offer flu shots. (And if you’re older, a pneumonia shot is a good idea as well.)

States of the economy and a look at the future: On Tuesday, September 22, from 11:30 to 12:30, the KC Chamber will host Kansas Commerce Secretary David Toland and Missouri Department of Economic Development Director Rob Dixon in an on-line session to discuss the economic recovery in both states, the current state of the economy in both Missouri and Kansas, and look ahead at how to grow both states’ economies. The two will also discuss the impact of the one-year-old Border War Truce signed by both governors. If you’d like to tune in, register here.

WHY DACA SHOULD BE IN YOUR WORKFORCE TOOLKIT

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has provided hope to immigrant youth for the last eight years.  We have seen threats to the program and surprise supporters. DACA's uncertain fate may seem risky for companies and their key employees.  Register now for Why DACA Should Be in Your Workforce Toolkit, September 18, 11:30 a.m.  to 1 p.m. Learn about the basics of DACA and how employers can navigate its future and continue to help share the American Dream, in this conversation with Attorney Jessica Piedra.

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION WORKSHP: NEURODIVERSITY – SUPERPOWERS & KRYPTONITE WHEN HIRING AN INDIVIDUAL WITH A DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY

What does neurodiversity look like in the workplace? Join the KC Chamber and Job One for Neurodiversity: Superpowers & Kryptonite When Hiring an Individual with a Developmental Disability, Tuesday, September 22 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Discover what tools are needed to create and support a neurodiverse business. You’ll also hear real-life success stories from local businesses. Register here for this free event. Thanks to our 2020 Presenting Diversity Sponsors CommunityAmerica Credit Union, Evergy, Hallmark, and T-Mobile.

CONVERSATIONS ON WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE

Women in the workplace are being pulled in more directions than ever these days. The KC Chamber invites you to join a dynamic group of women for Conversations on Women in the Workplace, September 24, 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Join women in the C-suite and women on the rise as they explore advocacy, diversity in the workplace, and career mobility during a pandemic. Register now as Moderator Susan Johnson of Andrews McMeel Universal welcomes panelists Niki Donawa with Truman Medical Centers, Jen Houston of UMB, and Ellie Webb of Honeywell for this enriching and inspiring event featuring women from all generations.

WHAT COVID MEANS FOR YOUR VOTE

Is it safe to vote in person? How do you vote by mail? COVID means voters are asking these questions before the November election. The KC Chamber wants you to have all the answers you need to properly cast your ballot and make sure your vote counts. Joins us for “What COVID Means For Your Vote,” October 2 from 10 to 11 a.m. This free virtual session features some of the region’s top election officials, including Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab, Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, and Kansas City Election Board Director Lauri Ealom. These election officials will be providing up-to-date information -- from health provisions that are being put into place to deadlines that need to be met to ensure mail-in votes are counted. Register now.