Leominster Credit Union ha participado con orgullo en el Mes del Libro Infantil durante más de 20 años, un evento anual patrocinado por la Cooperative Credit Union Association.
Durante el mes de abril, se aceptaron donaciones de libros infantiles nuevos y en buen estado en todas las sucursales de LCU. Los empleados de LCU participaron en los "Días de Jeans" recaudando fondos para comprar libros. El evento de este año fue organizado por Rachel Terrell, asistente ejecutiva, con la ayuda de Linda Taratuta, Elizabeth Bushnell, Mary Marchant, Nicole Florio y Amy Lacouture. Los miembros y empleados de LCU donaron generosamente más de 990 libros.
Se distribuyeron libros a varias organizaciones, entre ellas: MOC (Centro de cuidado infantil y Head Start), Sunrise Assisted Living, Escuelas Públicas de Fitchburg, Boys & Girls Club de Fitchburg/Leominster, Escuela Johnny Appleseed, Clinton Preschool, Elementary and District Resource Center, Wachusett Regional High School Preschool y la Escuela Francis Drake.
Sobre Leominster Credit Union (LCU)
Fundada en 1954, Leominster Credit Union (LCU) es una cooperativa financiera sin fines de lucro, de propiedad de sus socios, que ofrece una gama completa de servicios de depósito, crédito y otros servicios financieros. Con sede en Leominster, Massachusetts, LCU se enorgullece de contar con casi 50 000 socios y más de $850 millones en activos. LCU cuenta con siete sucursales en Leominster, Clinton, Holden, North Leominster, Sterling y Worcester, todas ellas con servicios de cajero automático. LCU también ofrece servicios bancarios las 24 horas del día a través de sus servicios móviles y en línea. Visita leominstercu.com o llame al 800-649-4646.
El Mount Wachusett Community College se complace en anunciar que el Departamento de Educación y Cuidado Tempranos (EEC) de Massachusetts ha asignado $515,055 para el año fiscal 2024 con el fin de continuar financiando el programa de subvenciones «Early Childhood Career Pathways».
La Beca para Trayectorias Profesionales en la Primera Infancia tiene como objetivo ayudar a los estudiantes y educadores de la primera infancia interesados a avanzar en sus carreras. La misión del programa de becas es ayudar a aliviar la escasez de educadores de la primera infancia y aumentar el nivel educativo de los educadores que ya están en el campo. Los estudiantes reciben cursos, libros gratuitos y la visita y el examen de certificación de Asistente de Desarrollo Infantil (CDA) necesarios para obtener la credencial CDA. También se brinda apoyo de tutoría en inglés y asesoramiento individualizado. El objetivo del programa es atender a 120 estudiantes en el Año Fiscal 2024.
“Estamos encantados de recibir financiamiento continuo para este programa vital”, declaró la coordinadora de subvenciones, Jonie Latimer-Brady. “No solo hemos podido ayudar a los estudiantes a obtener su credencial CDA, sino que muchos han continuado para obtener su certificado de Educación Infantil Temprana”.”
Los fondos también se usarán para aumentar el número de instructores y asesores de habla hispana para el nuevo programa de Certificado ECE a nivel universitario en lengua española. Los estudiantes obtendrán su certificación de maestro principal de EEC comenzando con cursos que se imparten en español y tomarán un curso ESOL contextualizado a nivel universitario al mismo tiempo.
El alcalde Stephen L. DiNatale y el Comité de Fitchburg Civic Days se enorgullecen en anunciar a Raymond y Diane Burnette como los Mariscales de Gran Desfile del 4 de Julio de Fitchburg Civic Days 2023, en reconocimiento a su servicio al Comité de Civic Days durante once años y a su dedicación a la Ciudad de Fitchburg.
Con casi cuarenta años como residentes de la ciudad, Ray y Diane han ofrecido su tiempo como voluntarios en varias capacidades en toda la ciudad, desde ser voluntarios del equipo de porristas de la Escuela Secundaria de Fitchburg hasta trabajar en numerosos eventos públicos. A partir de 2011, los Burnette sintieron un llamado a la acción para ayudar a que los eventos de Civic Days volvieran a ser los Días a la Antigua usanza en Main Street que Diane recuerda tan vívidamente. Lo que comenzó como pequeñas mejoras se convirtió en una misión de una década para difundir el orgullo cívico de Fitchburg a través de celebraciones de varios días de nuestra gran ciudad. Con la ayuda de sus hijas y voluntarios locales, Diane y Ray trajeron los eventos de Civic Days de regreso a Main Street, agregaron vendedores, crearon eventos y se aseguraron de que hubiera diversión para todas las edades. Desde bailar en la calle hasta un cuadrilátero de lucha libre, artistas callejeros e incluso la creación de un jardín de cerveza para los mayores de edad para participar, Diane y Ray tenían una cosa en mente: mostrar todo lo que Fitchburg tiene para ofrecer a sus residentes y a los que residen en las comunidades vecinas. Los eventos de Fitchburg Civic Days crecieron de 1,000 participantes en 2011 a más de 20,000 participantes en su década de voluntariado.
“Gracias a los esfuerzos de Ray y Diane Burnette, Fitchburg Civic Days se ha convertido en un evento turístico regional debido a su pasión y amor por nuestra ciudad”, dijo el alcalde Stephen L. DiNatale. “Fitchburg Civic Days es una de las tradiciones más antiguas de la ciudad y tenemos una deuda de gratitud con los Burnette por hacer que Civic Days sea el mejor de la historia desde su inicio”.”
En reconocimiento al tema del desfile de este año, “Honrando el Pasado e Inspirando el Futuro”, es un reflejo de las miles de horas de dedicación que Ray y Diane brindaron para que Civic Days se convirtiera en el impresionante evento que es hoy. Aunque Civic Days 2022 fue su último año como voluntarios, Diane y Ray reflexionan y reconocen que el éxito de los eventos del 4 de Julio en Fitchburg no hubiera sido posible sin la ayuda de sus dos hijas Kylee y Katie, el Alcalde, los departamentos de la ciudad, los miembros del Comité, los voluntarios, los vendedores y, lo más importante, los participantes de Civic Days.
El Desfile del 4 de Julio comienza a las 10:00 AM y se puede ver a lo largo de Summer Street y Main Street hasta el Upper Common. El Desfile Cívico de este año será transmitido en vivo por FATV por Travis Condon, Glenn Fossa y Thomas Hughes. El desfile contará con organizaciones comunitarias, ligas deportivas, negocios locales y una variedad de bandas locales y regionales. Para más información visita: www.fitchburgma.gov/civicdays.
James L. Vander Hooven, Ed.D., President, Mount Wachusett Community College has been elected Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors for 2023-2024. The announcement was made at the chamber’s Annual Meeting on June 15, 2023.
Dr. Vander Hooven was named president of Mount Wachusett Community College in 2017. Headquartered in Gardner, Mount Wachusett Community College is a public, two-year college that was founded in 1963 to serve the people of North Central Massachusetts. The college is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and offers 70+ credit-bearing degree and certificate programs, non-credit, personal enrichment classes for lifelong learners, and workforce development that includes custom, on-site training.
Dr. Vander Hooven earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from The Ohio State University and his Master of Arts degree in American Studies from the University of Wyoming. In 2009, he was awarded his Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Maine, where he focused on student access.
In addition to his involvement with the chamber, Dr. Vander Hooven also serves on a number of boards and charitable organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of Fitchburg/Leominster, United Way of North Central Massachusetts, Wachusett Business Incubator and the GFA Federal Credit Union Supervisory Committee.
He succeeds Christopher McCarthy, president of Fidelity Bank who now moves to the position of Immediate Past Chair of the Board of Directors.
“I am incredibly honored to have been elected Chair of this dynamic and respected organization that plays such a leadership role in advancing North Central Massachusetts,” expressed Dr. Vander Hooven, “I am excited to continue Chris McCarthy’s efforts and look forward to working alongside an incredible Board and staff to make sure the Chamber remains a strong resource for our business community.”
Vander Hooven was first elected to the Chamber’s Board of Directors in 2018 and has held several leadership positions including Vice Chair, Treasurer and has served on the Chamber’s Leadership Council, the One North Central leadership committee and the executive committee. As the Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, Dr. Vander Hooven will work with the Board, Chamber staff, and membership to champion the Chamber in its mission to serve the region’s business community.
“Jim has served as an important member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee for several years and is a valued leader in the community,” noted Roy Nascimento, Chamber president & CEO. “We are fortunate to have his respected leadership as we continue to advance the interests of our members and work together to promote North Central Massachusetts.”
In the same election, Barbara Mahoney, president & CEO of Leominster Credit Union was elected Vice-Chair and Dr. Richard Lapidus, president of Fitchburg State University was elected to the position of Treasurer. Board members elected for new terms were Nick Haritos, president & CEO of AIS, Inc. in Leominster; John Heroux, president of Micro Machine & Electronics in Leominster; and Nicole Moorshead, general manager of the Chocksett Inn in Sterling and the Colonial Hotel in Gardner.
Continuing current terms on the Board of Directors are Allie Catlin, co-owner of Smith’s Country Cheese in Winchendon; Jackie Cullen, co-owner of River Styx Brewing in Fitchburg; Tony Fields, president and owner of Cleartech Group in Leominster; Matthew Fournier, president of Elite Construction & Design in Fitchburg; Melissa Glenny, president of Franklin Professional Associates in Leominster; Michael Johansen, president & CEO of Bemis Associates in Shirley; Rachel Lopez, president & CEO of Resource Management, Inc in Fitchburg; Lori Richardson, president of Aging Services of North Central Massachusetts in Leominster; and Rodrigo Souza, owner of Comeketo Brazilian Steakhouse in Leominster.
Fitchburg | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | Chamber Updates | Board of Directors | James L. Vander Hooven | Board of Directors | Barbara Mahoney, president & CEO of Leominster Credit Union | Dr. Richard Lapidus, President of Fitchburg State University | Nick Haritos, president & CEO of AIS, Inc. in Leominster | John Heroux, president of Micro Machine & Electronics in Leominster; and Nicole Moorshead, General manager of the Chocksett Inn | Allie Catlin, co-owner of Smith’s Country Cheese in Winchendon | Jackie Cullen, co-owner of River Styx Brewing in Fitchburg | Tony Fields, president and owner of Cleartech Group in Leominster | Matthew Fournier, president of Elite Construction & Design in Fitchburg | Melissa Glenny, president of Franklin Professional Associates in Leominster | Michael Johansen, president & CEO of Bemis Associates in Shirley | Rachel Lopez, president & CEO of Resource Management, Inc Fitchburg | Lori Richardson, President of Aging Services of North Central Massachusetts Leominster | Rodrigo Souza, owner of Comeketo Brazilian Steakhouse in Leominster.
El Buscador de Ganancias, la experiencia de Brian Carmody sobre el poder del crecimiento compuesto en los negocios ha ganado reconocimiento en Brainz Magazine. En su artículo, “Cómo Usar la Ley del Crecimiento Compuesto Para Acelerar Tu Negocio” comparte estrategias valiosas para emprendedores. Recientemente, Brian apareció en el podcast The Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur, donde habló sobre el crecimiento empresarial compuesto sin publicidad pagada. Junto con el episodio del podcast, Brian ha proporcionado videoclips cautivadores. Descubre a continuación sus ideas para el crecimiento exponencial de negocios.
ColBro First Aid & Safety Training, LLC proporciona soluciones integrales de capacitación en RCP, primeros auxilios y prevención de atragantamientos, adaptadas a las necesidades de su personal. Sus instructores altamente calificados están disponibles para impartir sesiones de capacitación en sus instalaciones y en el horario que le resulte más conveniente.
During high energy price challenges, National Grid has partnered with the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to support small businesses. We are pleased to announce the National Grid Small Business Energy Relief Grant, a one-time grant of $1,000 aimed at assisting eligible small business owners in overcoming financial obstacles.
Eligibility
Small Business Status: The business should have 150 employees or fewer and provide proof of business, such as a DBA Business Certificate or Articles of Organization. Additionally, submission of 2022 Business Taxes/Schedule C is required to demonstrate ongoing operations.
National Grid Customer: The business must be a National Grid customer for electric and/or gas services. Applicants must furnish the most recent National Grid Bill/Statement, showing the Business Name, Primary Business Address, and Account Number for verification purposes.
Qualifiers: The business must be located within one of the 27 communities serviced by the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, as depicted here, or be a Member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber or a Loan Client of the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC).
Grant Details:
Grant Amount: Successful applicants will receive a one-time grant of $1,000 to alleviate the financial burden of high energy prices.
Availability: Grants are limited and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, providing timely support to eligible small businesses. Priority will be given to NCMDC Loan Clients and/or Chamber Members.
Application Requirements: Complete applications are essential, as partial or incomplete submissions will not secure a place in the grant allocation process.
Single Grant per Business: Only one grant will be provided per small business, ensuring fair distribution among eligible applicants.
Grant Decision and Disbursement: Successful applicants can expect to receive a check within one month of the grant decision, enabling prompt financial relief.
Application Period Closed – We are no longer accepting applications.
Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Business Growth | Business Development | Massachusetts Business Environment | Small Business Grants
¡Música en vivo, comida, bebidas y más llegarán a Gardner el 29 de junio!
La Ciudad de Gardner se complace en anunciar su primer concierto anual de bienvenida al verano. El evento de entrada gratuita se llevará a cabo el jueves 29 de junio. Habrá música en vivo de 6 a 9 p. m. en el césped frontal del Ayuntamiento de Gardner, ubicado en 95 Pleasant St., con varias camionetas de comida que comenzarán su servicio a las 5:30 p. m.
El concierto contará con la actuación en vivo de la banda 7 Day Weekend, quienes se han dado a conocer en toda Nueva Inglaterra por su enérgica presencia en el escenario y sus versiones de éxitos populares que complacen a la multitud, desde los 80 hasta la actualidad. La banda dice que tiene la intención de crear una atmósfera animada que hará que los asistentes bailen y canten. Actuarán en las escalinatas frontales del Ayuntamiento de Gardner de 7 p. m. a 9 p. m.
Antes de que 7 Day Weekend suba al escenario, Brandon Furtado, un músico nuevo y prometedor, lucirá su talento de 6 p. m. a 7 p. m.
Se ofrecerán alimentos y bebidas para comprar en el concierto con la participación de varios *food trucks* locales, Tavern 13, que tendrá un bar completo, y Moon Hill Brewing, que ofrecerá cerveza y vino. Funcionarios de la ciudad dijeron que su intención es que el evento sea una forma divertida de dar la bienvenida al verano en la ciudad.
“Estoy muy emocionado de que la comunidad se reúna para dar inicio al verano de esta nueva y divertida manera”, dijo el alcalde Mike Nicholson. “Esto seguramente será un momento divertido para todos los que puedan unirse”.”
Los organizadores del evento aconsejan a las personas que lleven sillas de jardín, mantas de picnic o cualquier cosa que deseen para disfrutar de un rato divertido en el césped frente al Ayuntamiento.
Para más información sobre este evento o futuros eventos en Gardner, visita www.gardner-ma.gov o síguenos en Instagram @ciudaddegardner y Facebook, Ayuntamiento de Gardner.
The Chamber is pleased to announce the addition of Maureen Babcock to the professional staff in the role of Executive Assistant. She will be responsible for managing the Chamber’s database, providing administrative and operational support, and coordinating special projects. Maureen lives in Devens and has been very active in the community, including volunteering with the Boy Scouts and Harvard Parks & Recreation. She has also served as the Chair of the Educational Advisory Committee that advises MassDevelopment on education related matters in the Devens community. She holds a Bachelor degree in Political Science/Business from Mount Saint Mary’s College and is a Certified Financial Planner. Members can contact Maureen Babcock at 978.353.7600 ext. 222 or via email at .
“Maureen brings a wealth of skills and experience to this dynamic and essential role, including over a decade of experience in project management, registration and program coordination,” said Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the Chamber. “We are excited to have her join our team and contribute towards our efforts to support our members and advance our communities.”
The Chamber also announces the recent departure of Maribel Cruz and Lauren Goulet. Cruz has served as Economic Development Manager for the Chamber for over two years and recently accepted the position of Housing and Community Development Director for the City of Fitchburg. Lauren Goulet worked for the Chamber for nearly fifteen years as Operations Manager and recently accepted a position with the Azzur Group, a life sciences company expanding in Devens.
“We are saddened to lose Maribel and Lauren, but also excited for them and these new opportunities,” said Nascimento. “They have been important and dedicated members of our team and contributors to our success. I want to thank them for their hard work and commitment to the Chamber and wish them well in their new positions.”
Fitchburg | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | Chamber Updates | New Staff Addition | Maureen Babcock | Executive Assistant
More than $50,000 awarded to the region’s most outstanding high school seniors
Families, friends, fellow graduates, and business and community leaders recently gathered for the annual Chamber Foundation of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce scholarship program to recognize the region’s most outstanding high school seniors. The awardees were acknowledged during the Annual Scholar’s Breakfast held on Friday, May 12, at Great Wolf Lodge in Fitchburg.
Proceeds from the breakfast program benefit the Chamber Foundation and help support Chamber scholarships in future years. Maria Milagros, an award-winning speaker, award nominated author, TEDx speaker, storyteller and empowerment life coach, led the ceremony and delivered the keynote address for the event.
For the Class of 2023, a total of $52,000 in scholarships were awarded from either endowments or funds provided by local companies and individuals. The Scholarship Committee selected the recipients from among college-bound seniors who live in one of the 27 communities served by the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce based on a student’s overall merit, including academics, sports, volunteer work and employment.
Twenty-six scholarships of $2,000 were provided to the following seniors during the Scholar’s Breakfast:
Since the establishment of its scholarship program, the Chamber Foundation of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce has awarded more than a million dollars in scholarships to more than 680 students. Many of these awards are made possible through contributions from members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, with scholarships endowed through the Chamber Foundation often named in honor of prominent members of the North Central Massachusetts business community whose philanthropy and commitment to the community have helped shape the region.
“The North Central region is exceptional in its generosity, investment and commitment to supporting its future leaders,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “These scholarships are one way we can recognize local students as they continue their education through the support of organizations and individuals who help make these scholarships possible for our graduating seniors.”
The Chamber wishes to thank the Scholar’s Breakfast Premier Sponsor: Rollstone Bank & Trust; Recipient Ticket Sponsor: Great Wolf Lodge; Supporting Sponsors: AIS, Inc. and Steel-Fab Inc.; Program Sponsor: North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Center Piece Sponsor: Leominster Credit Union; Gift Sponsor: Fitchburg State University; as well as the many Chamber members who contributed towards the scholarships.
The Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization focused on assisting in the betterment of the region through charitable activities. Funds raised by the Chamber Foundation are utilized primarily for education and workforce development initiatives and charitable activities in North Central Massachusetts.
For more information on the Chamber Foundation of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce scholarship program or to view a list of the named scholarships, please visit northcentralmass.com or call 978.353.7600, ext. 225
Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Massachusetts Education System | Massachusetts Education Investments | Chamber Foundation Scholarships
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce has been awarded a 5-star Accreditation as a result of its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community by the Accrediting Board of the United States Chamber of Commerce. The announcement was made to an audience of nearly 300 business and community leaders at the Chamber’s Annual Business Meeting earlier this month.
Accreditation is the only national program to recognize chambers of commerce for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. In order to achieve this recognition, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, communications and technology. This comprehensive self-review was conducted over a four-month period and required preparation of an extensive application, including compilation and review of volumes of materials required by the Accrediting Board, and demonstration of competency in nine core areas ranging from finance to facilities.
Of the approximately 7,000 chambers in the U.S., there are currently only 140 5-Star rated chambers, which represent the top three percent of all chambers in the country. In Massachusetts, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber is one of only two chambers with this prestigious accreditation.
“When chambers of commerce earn the distinction of becoming accredited, it is a mark of excellence for the organization, its staff, and its leadership” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber vice president, Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management. “This rigorous review includes all aspects of a chamber’s policies, operations, and programming. Accredited chambers are recognized for their continued advocacy of free enterprise, and for their commitment to serving members and their local business communities. Congratulations on this tremendous accomplishment.”
“We are incredibly honored to receive this national designation which places us among the best chambers of commerce in the country,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president & CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “We challenged ourselves to improve our Chamber for the betterment of our members and our region. Receiving this accreditation only motivates us to continue to remain engaged, active and innovative on behalf of our members and communities in North Central Massachusetts.”
Local chambers are rated Accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars, or 5-Stars. State chambers are recognized as either Accredited State Chamber or Accredited State Chamber with Distinction. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board.
The accreditation report noted the North Central Massachusetts Chamber has demonstrated an excellent track record of operating a successful chamber and achieving desirable results for its members. Several of the Chamber’s programs, events and initiatives were highlighted for special recognition, including its leadership role in helping members and the community navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Chamber’s leadership in talent and workforce development. The Chamber also received special recognition for its thoughtful and impactful efforts around government affairs and volunteer recognition, and for investments it has made in technology.
Fitchburg | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | 5-Star Accreditation | United States Chamber of Commerce
In a partnership with MassHire, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce will be hosting officials from the MassHire Rapid Response team for one-on-one appointments with local employers. The meetings are an opportunity to discuss any specific matters related to a company’s hiring and retention of skilled workers, as well as to review state resources available to support a company’s talent needs.
Scott Percifull, Program Coordinator for MassHire’s Rapid Response team will be available at the Chamber office by appointment on Wednesday, June 28 between 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The appointments are in thirty minute increments and are first come, first serve. The meetings are free and confidential, available on a non-discriminatory basis, and are handicapped accessible.
The MassHire Department of Career Services oversees Massachusetts’s network of MassHire Career Centers that assist businesses in finding qualified workers, providing job seekers with career guidance as well as referrals to jobs and training. Employers can take advantage of employment and training resources, including assistance with recruitment and hiring, job matching with potential hires, tax credit programs, and labor market information.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Terry Young, Manager of Talent and Education Initiatives at the Chamber at (978) 353-7600 ext. 244 or via email at or Maureen Babcock, Executive Assistant at the Chamber at 978) 353-7600 ext. 222 or via email at .
Fitchburg | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | Local Networking Events | Masshire Workforce
