May/June 2019 Chamber Focus by SouthCoast Chamber

The SouthCoast

Inside May - June 2019

Chamber Focus

Proudly Serving New Bedford and the Towns of the South Coast Business News for and about Members of the SouthCoast Chamber

SouthCoast Women's Forum Returns on May 21st

May - June 2019

Chamber Update ................................2 Apex Award Recipients .......................3 Connecting Activities..........................8 Good News .........................................6 Welcome New Members....................10 Recent Events.....................................11 Featured Member Discount...............13

Legislative Lunch to feature U.S. Senator Edward Markey on May 17th

investor protection or preserving an open Internet that spurs competition and consumer choice, Senator Markey stands up for the priorities and values of Massachusetts.

The SouthCoast Women's Forum is the ideal setting for leading business professionals, and aspiring women in business to connect, learn, and be inspired by other women! This unique event celebrates the accomplishments of women while motivating other women to follow their example. This year the Women’s Forum will focus on professional women who are "Boldly Breaking Barriers”. The highly anticipated 2019 SouthCoast Women's Forum will focus on professionals who have influenced the business community by advocating for initiatives, advancing new industries and bringing original products to the marketplace. Using activism, creativity and forward thinking they are fearless leaders in shaping legislation, changing policies and developing products that enhance the quality our life! The cost to attend this event, which includes lunch, an inspirational speaking program, and an interactive expo, is

$50 per person. Registration is required and can be made online at www. southcoastchamber.com or by calling 508-999-5231. Sponsorship and exhibitor space is also available by contacting Deven Robitaille at deven@southcoastchamber.com. Read about the 2019 speakers here: Ashley Paré - CEO & Founder of Own Your Worth Ashley Paré is the CEO & Founder of Own Your Worth, an organization on a mission to break glass ceilings through career negotiation. As a leadership and negotiation coach, Ashley helps clients release self-limiting beliefs, feel confident and earn more. She leverages over 12 years of global corporate Human Resource experience and continues to work with organizations to create inclusive cultures. Ashley is a TEDx Speaker continued on page 14

United States Senator Edward Markey will be featured at the SouthCoast and Bristol County Chambers' 2019 Legislative Luncheon on Friday, May 17 at White's of Westport located at 66 State Rd., Westport, MA. Hear about his new policies and agenda and how he is working to make sure the South Coast has a voice in Washington D.C. While serving for 37 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, Senator Edward Markey fought for his constituents throughout his Congressional District. Senator Markey, a consumer champion and national leader on energy, environmental protection and telecommunications policy, has a prolific legislative record on major issues across the policy spectrum and a deep commitment to improving the lives of the people of Massachusetts and our country. Whether the issue is climate change, clean energy, safeguarding privacy, nuclear non-proliferation,

The cost to attend this event, which includes lunch, is $50 per person. Registration is required and can be made online at www.southcoastchamber.com or by calling 508-999-5231. This event is sponsored by Southcoast Health, St. Anne’s Credit Union, Bank Five and the Southeastern Massachusetts Alliance of Chambers.

• The Annual Apex Recipients have been announced. Read more on page 3. • Hundreds attended the SouthCoast Job Fair. Read more on page 10. • The Suppor ted Employment Network Reflects on 30 years. Read more on page 15.

The SouthCoast Chamber Focus is the official news publication of the SouthCoast Chamber 227 Union Street, Mezzanine 2 • New Bedford, MA 02740 508-999-5231 • fax 508-999-5237 • info@southcoastchamber.com Editor: Rebecca Laliberte • Photographer: Rebecca Laliberte & Sergio Dabdoub Chair of the Board Kim Perry, Waring-Sullivan Funeral Home Chair-Elect Ron Ellis, Edward Jones Treasurer Carl Taber, BayCoast Bank Vice Chair of Government Affairs William Burns, Southcoast Health Systems Vice Chair of Community Affairs Chris Howard, First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union Vice Chair of Economic Affairs Rose Lopes, Sylvia Group Vice Chair of Membership Jeff Pagliuca, Bristol County Savings Bank Immediate Past Chair Dave Maher, Lockheed Martin Directors Nathan Araujo, R4L Management Henry Arruda, WJFD-FM Cheryl Bartlett, New Bedford Community Health Center Kevin Carando, Acushnet Company Kathy Carter, Charlton College of Business, UMASS-Dartmouth Paul Chasse, REALTOR® Association of Southeastern Massachusetts Dr. Laura Douglas, Bristol Community College Stephen W. Connulty, Paul & Dixon Insurance Gail Fortes, YWCA of Southeastern Massachusetts Jeffrey Glassman, Darn It, Inc. Doug Glassman, SERVPRO of Dartmouth/New Bedford & Marion / Middleboro Ellen Gitlin, Diversified Marketing Group Luke Lehman, BankFive Chuck Lord, AHEAD Lynne Mastera, Precix Douglas Rodrigues, JMR & Company Kristy Roussel, Lafrance Hospitality Derek Santos, New Bedford Economic Development Council Carl Sawejko, Sawejko Communications Carmen Sylvester, Southern Mass Credit Union Mike Tavares, Horacio’s, Inc Robert Unger, Unger LeBlanc Director Emeritus Joel E. Burns Your Chamber Staff 508-999-5231 President & CEO, Rick Kidder - Ext. 100 Director of Operations & Finance, Dorothy Botelho, IOM - Ext. 101 Manager of Business Development & Public Policy, Ian Abreu, IOM - Ext. 105 Supported Employment Network Coordinator, Joanne Rego Communications Manager, Rebecca Laliberte, IOM - Ext. 102 Programs & Events Manager, Deven Robitaille- Ext. 103 Youth Services Coordinator, Brianna Alves - Ext. 104 Member Relations Coordinator/Tourism Coordinator, Ashley Wojtunik - Ext. 108

A Message from the President & CEO Putting the Busy in Business! Life never stops for a the Green New Deal about chamber of commerce, which so much has been and for your SouthCoast written and spoken of late. Chamber our being busy is a great sign for business in He has hosted Chamber our region! With an array staff and volunteers at his of events, integration efforts office annually, and remains Rick Kidder, with the Bristol County a strong advocate for our Chamber, advocacy on your President & CEO region, alternative energy behalf at Beacon Hill and and a strong economy. The growing our chamber better Legislative Luncheon with to serve the business community, Senator Markey will be held at the SouthCoast Chamber team Whites of Westport and will be is working hard for our members presented in partnership with the every day. Bristol County Chamber on May 17. On the integration front, our conversations with the Bristol County On May 21, the Chamber will host Chamber through our dedicated its annual Women’s Forum at RoseIntegration Task Force are proceed- brook in Wareham. This annual ing well. The timing seems right for event brings our women business building a larger regional presence leaders together for what promises in support of the business comto be both strong expressions of munity and economic growth in empowerment and practical skills. our region. Scale has meaning, in This is a not-to-miss event! part because scale provides a louder and stronger voice for business and Lastly, we need your help to grow many more opportunities to supthis great organization, and the port small business growth. Chamber has developed a robust member referral incentives package, Scale also allows for the organizadesigned to reward our members tion to reflect the reality of our for warm hand-off introductions business community – that we are to our membership manager, Ian one region with two great anchor Abreu. Members may add a month cities with a mobile workforce and a to their membership or choose to fluid customer base that rarely cares accept a $25 Visa gift card. Either one bit about political jurisdictions way, a referral that converts to when making purchasing decisions. membership enters our referring member an opportunity to win During the month of May the $500 in a drawing to be held in Chamber will be pleased to welDecember. come United States Senator Edward Markey to the South Coast for We are loyal to our members and the Chamber’s annual Legislative thank you for the privilege of earnLuncheon. Through his many years ing your loyalty every day! of service in both the House and Senate, Senator Markey has seen it all. Always a voice for environmental issues, he is a major sponsor of

Apex Award Recipients Announced at Annual Ceremony The SouthCoast Chamber is pleased to recognize the significant contributions and achievements of our region’s businesses with the presentation of the 2019 APEX Awards in the categories of Small Business, Large Business, NonProfit and Educational Institution.

Citizens Federal Credit Union and Lafrance Hospitality. Presented with the Small Business of the Year award was Buzzards Bay Brewery Inc.

The Non-Profit of the Year sponsored by First Citizens Federal Credit Union was presented to YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts

Presented with the Educational Institution of the Year award was Alma del Mar Charter School

With over 30 nominees this year, the painstaking task of narrowing down one of the largest turnouts to date was no easy one. Each nominee has played a unique role within the community and contributed to the economic development of the South Coast. Presented with the Large Business of the Year award was Poyant Signs.

Buzzards Bay Brewing has been a major player in the local brewing industry for more than twenty years.

For over 80 years, Poyant Signs has maintained a desire to help customers build their business with high quality products by collaborating with local, regional and national companies to help achieve their clients’ goals. A third generation family business Poyant Signs shows consistent growth in all areas of the organization including their employment, which recently increased their workforce from 58 to 72. The majority of these employees are hired from local vocational high schools and colleges. As a pioneer in innovation, Poyant is constantly updating their equipment and business strategies capitalizing on modern technology. The nominees for this year’s Large Business of the Year award included Eastern Bank, Plumbers Supply Co., Vibra Hospital of Southeastern Massachusetts, Toyota of Dartmouth/ Check Collision, The Standard-Times, SouthCoast Behavioral Health, Couto Construction and finalists First

The main mission of Buzzard Bay Brewery is to not to just sell beer, but rather to work side by side with local brewers to build a vibrant craft beer community that will prosper and recirculate resources into the local economy. The early decision to focus on local consumers and retailers has been the key to their success for the past two decades and allowed the local craft beer industry to succeed. Heavily invested in the community they have significant relationships with The Zeiterion Theatre, the Buzzards Bay Coalition, the Pink Boots Society and are strong advocates for Women in the Brewing Industry.

The YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts works towards the elimination of racism, the empowerment of women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. With a diverse workforce of more than 20 employees ranging from high school students to personnel over 60, they represent and easily communicate with multiple demographics. Under their current leadership, the YWCA has completed a $4.5 million campaign to build a 6,550 square foot addition specifically for a school age childcare program and to provide 8 full units of housing for low-income women.

The YWCA serves over 4,000 local residents annually and offers programThe nominees for year’s Small Business ming in adult, youth and residential of the Year award included Best Westservices as well as health and wellness. ern Dartmouth Inn, Primerica, Hannah The nominees for this year’s Non-Profit Grace Beyoutiful, Spectrum Marketing of the Year award included Friendly Group, Diversified Marketing Group, Sons of St. Patrick of New Bedford Inc., Capital House Media, Simply Sierra Realtor Association of Southeastern Jewelry, U.S. Party Supply, Couto Con- Massachusetts, Coastal Foodshed, Mostruction, Alferes Realty, Mid City Steel Life Inc., PACE and finalists Greater and finalists Servpro of New Bedford New Bedford Community Health and and Precision Window and Kitchen, Leadership SouthCoast. Inc.

Founded in 2011, Alma del Mar’s mission is to put every child on a path to college, while challenging them to be service-minded leaders. With hundreds of children on the waiting list and more than 10% of the city’s kindergartners applying for enrollment, Alma del Mar has seen a demand for expansion. This demand led to the construction of a two-story school in the North End of New Bedford. Recently, Alma was approved to open a first-of-its-kind neighborhood-based enrollment Commonwealth Charter school. Alma del Mar’s result have been among the highest in the state and their teachers and administration continue to lead by example encouraging their scholars to excel academically and become contributing member of society through civic engagement. The nominees for this year’s Educational Institution of the Year award included Lesley University, Nativity Preparatory School New Bedford with finalists Rob Roy Academy and Old Colony Regional Vocational High School.

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Good News! vices’ initiatives supporting those Southcoast Hospitals Group is named to Newsweek’s World’s Best aging with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD.) The focus Hospitals 2019 was on successes of the individuals, families, staff, and/or community members who supported the agerelated needs of individuals with Today, Southcoast Hospitals Group, IDD to maintain their quality of which includes Charlton Memorial life in the community. Hospital, St. Luke’s Hospital, and People Incorporated received an Tobey Hospital, has been named to Newsweek’s inaugural list of the award in honor of the exemplary work done at one of the agency’s World’s Best Hospitals 2019. residential homes to support the Out of the 2,743 considered hospi- changing needs of the individuals tals in the US, only 250 earned this living there as they aged. As accessibility, mobility, and increased recognition. Southcoast Hospitals medical attention became even Group ranked 162. more necessary, the home was fitted Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals to accommodate the residents. The 2019, calculated in partnership with staff members continue to receive significant training to best serve Statista Inc., recognizes the best 1000 hospitals across 11 countries: people who have been part of the agency for decades. USA, Canada, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Switzerland, People Incorporated is a human serSouth Korea, Japan, Singapore, vices agency serving Southeastern Australia, and Israel. Massachusetts. For more information on programs and services, visit For a complete listing of awards, http://peopleinc-fr.org/. recognitions and distinctions please visit www.southcoast.org/ about-southcoast-health/southcoast- Child & Family Services, Inc. Achieves National Accreditation awards/

Based on their findings, COA’s volunteer-based Accreditation Commission voted that Child & Family Services had successfully met the criteria for accreditation. COA accreditation is an objective, independent, and reliable validation of an agency’s performance. The COA accreditation process involves a detailed review and analysis of an organization’s administration, management, and service delivery functions against international standards of best practice. Peter C. Lantz Passes Uniform Investment Adviser Examination USA Wealth Advisors Group is pleased to announce that Peter “Pete” Lantz has successfully passed the Uniform Investment Adviser law Examination, also known as the “Series 65 Exam.” He has passed the Series 6 and 63 Securities Licenses. The Series 65 exam, given by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), is designed to qualify candidates as Investment Adviser Representatives and is a difficult test to pass.

Advisors Group 352 Faunce Corner Rd, Dartmouth, MA. 774-7704179 or email pete@usawag.com. Kennedy-Donovan Center Announces New President and CEO Kennedy-Donovan Center proudly announced that its Board of Directors has appointed N. Paul TonThat as President and Chief Executive Officer, after being the interim CEO since September. As CEO, he will provide executive leadership, vision, and strategic direction for Kennedy-Donovan Center (KDC) to provide essential services to support an increasing number of individuals and families across their lifespan throughout the Commonwealth.

Having come to the U.S. from Vietnam in 1975, Paul recognized how personal public policies impacted his own life and committed himself to work on the behalf of those whose lives have been marginalized. He has deep knowledge in the fields of human services, beginning People Incorporated home receives at BayCove Human Services with a recognition for adapting to serve tenure of nearly a decade, including aging residents Child & Family Services, Inc. (CFS) Pete has been a Licensed Insurance implementing and creating bilingual, bi-cultural homes for homeless is proud to announce that they have Agent in Massachusetts for more and the mentally ill; which became achieved national accreditation than 11 years, and has worked for a national model. He has managed through the New York-based Coun- Arbor Insurance Brokerage, Inc. successful transitions as both CEO cil on Accreditation (COA). and USA Wealth Group, Inc. as Organizations pursue accreditation an Insurance Broker and Financial and interim executive, with a forte in board development, fundraising, to demonstrate the implementaAdvisor. He has served six years in programs and strategy at organization of best practice standards in the United States Marine Corps tions such as the Alzheimer’s Assothe field of human services. COA Reserve, is an on-call member ciation (Connecticut chapter) and evaluated all aspects of Child & The residents and staff of a People of the Town of Dartmouth Fire the Brain Tumor Society. Paul has Family Services’ programs, services, Department, District One and has Incorporated home were honored management, and administration. at a recognition event at the State coached several little league baseball been actively engaged in partnerships and collaborations based on To achieve COA accreditation, CFS teams. House on Tuesday, March 20 that his experience with human service first provided written evidence of highlighted the Massachusetts organizations. Department of Developmental Ser- compliance with the COA stanYou can reach Pete at USA Wealth dards. 6

Good News! Paul has a bachelor’s degree in Economic-Finance from Bentley College and an M.Div. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. In 2011, he completed the Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management (SPNM) program at Harvard Business School. Our Sisters’ School Receives Accreditation From The Association Of Independent Schools In New England

and resources, admissions procedures, communication, staffing, professional development, governance and administration to ensure positive alignment in all areas at the School. The resulting self-study was presented to AISNE for peer review prior to their sending a team of visiting administrators and educators to immerse themselves at OSS for three days.

from Cape Cod to area airports, train stations and all points in Boston and throughout New England. They will now be establishing operations at 1213 Purchase Street in New Bedford.

Operations Manager Chris Paolini has been active in the New Bedford AISNE’s Board approved the area business community for over a School for accreditation citing OSS’s “audacious mission” and the year now thanks to his membership positive impact the School has had and participation in the SouthCoast Chamber and the Southupon students and families. The report commended OSS on all that eastern Massachusetts Business it has accomplished during its short Network. existence and provided positive “I cherish our partnerships in New recommendations for the coming Bedford and the South Coast,” decade that are completely in line Paolini said. “It is our pleasure to Our Sisters’ School (OSS), an inde- with the School’s strategic plan. bring cleaner private transportation pendent, tuition-free, non-sectarian The OSS community is pleased into the region, and in the process, middle school for economically that AISNE recognized our wholedisadvantaged girls in New Bedford, hearted commitment to supporting collectively reduce our carbon MA, has recently received formal ac- middle school girls in Greater New footprint.” creditation from the Association of Bedford with a powerful academic, Independent Schools in New Engsocial and emotional school experi- The Green Shuttle offers an environmentally friendly alternative land (AISNE). According to Head ence. to traditional black car services, of School Sarah Herman, “This is specializing in transportation to a profoundly important validation Unlike charter schools, OSS is of Our Sisters’ School, our mission, ineligible for any state funding as an and from Boston and Providence RI airports, train stations, and and the work we have done in the all-girls school, and must raise the other points of interest. The core 11 years since we opened our doors full tuition for each student from in 2008.” generous individuals, corporations fleet includes top-of-the-line Toyota Avalon Hybrids. The company also and foundations through grants offers Lexus RX Hybrid and HighThe accreditation process, as laid and solicitations. We welcome lander Hybrid SUVs. Reservations out by AISNE, “…strengthens the interest in all that we do at OSS. are accepted via e-mail or telephone school’s commitment and congruence to its mission, facilitates Our Sisters’ School is located at 145 24 hours a day. Call (508) 563-6472 for more information. institutional reflection and selfBrownell Avenue, New Bedford, evaluation, provides structure and MA 02740. For further informaa timetable for institutional reflection, please contact Sarah Herman Spherion Makes Donation to the Dartmouth YMCA and Receives tion, dialogue and change, and alat 508-994-1255 or visit www. Recognition for Sales Growth lows for performance measurement oursistersschool.org. against a wide range of standards of The Spherion team gifted a mongood practice.” Green Shuttle Announces New etary donation to the Dartmouth Location in New Bedford, MA YMCA for Spherion’s 2018 ComOSS embarked on the comprehen- For the past 12 years The Green sive year-long self-evaluation by reShuttle has provided a high quality munity Give Back Program. The team also volunteers with the Y at examining its mission, curriculum private environmental car service

their community farm which gives back to local food pantries. The Dartmouth, MA team was recognized at the Spherion Annual Owners’ Meeting in March for achieving the highest Clerical Sales Growth in 2018! Karen and her team members are standing with corporate support and transitioning executive team members from the organization.

Spherion is a locally owned and nationally supported full service staffing agency specializing in contract, temp to hire, and direct hire placements in a variety of industries in the South Coast area. For more information, please call 508-991-8170 to speak with a recruiter.

Do you have good news to share? Please send your press releases with photos to info@southcoastchamber.com Due to space limitations, we can not guarantee each article will be printed. We do try our best to fit as much member news in as possible.

Celebrating a Successful Year for the Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership! By: Brianna Alves, Youth Services Coordinator

This past academic year has been one to remember for the Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership (GNBCAP). The GNBCAP introduced new partnerships with the MassHire Greater New Bedford Career Center, our sponsor First Citizens Federal Credit Union, and many more! GNBCAP has grown into ten high schools across the region; impacting over 2,600 students! The GNBCAP is an integral part of the state’s college and career readiness initiative. We provide local high school students with career development education and help builds the connection from the classroom to real world workplace experience. Our program assists high school students achieve success in post-secondary education. We are always looking for new employers to collaborate with us! Our program components includes Career Awareness, Career Exploration, and Career Immersions. We build career awareness through annual career days or career fairs. We bring employers into the high schools, which allow them to highlight their industries to the students. We explore career options with our high school students by coordinating tours, or job shadows to witness different career pathways. We immerse our high school students in internships, which allow the students to grow as a people, and witness first-hand the workplace experience. Special thank you to First Citizens Federal Credit Union for sponsoring GNBCAP! First Citizens Federal Credit Union is an active volunteer at our events, and enjoys educating students

on possible career pathways in banking. For this past academic year, First Citizens Federal Credit Union hosted a Dartmouth High School senior, Taylor Alves, within their Marketing department. Taylor’s internship consisted of assisting with various marketing projects and working with their social media insights. Senior Director of Marketing, Leslie Poulin states, “For us, sponsoring this program means creating opportunities for students to observe their chosen career path in the workplace. Our hope is that this experience will prepare them to visualize their investment in their education.” If you would like more information about volunteering as an employer, or want to host an intern, please contact Brianna Alves, Youth Services Coordinator for the SouthCoast Chamber at 508-858-5594 or via email at balves@ southcoastchamber.com. Like GNBCAP on Facebook! Connecting Activities is a program partnership of the MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board, SouthCoast Chamber, and the MassHire Greater New Bedford Career Center.

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Welcome New Members ABC of Public Speaking 98 Seaver St. East Taunton, MA 02718 Phone: (508) 821-8142

D & D Caterers, Inc. 297 Ashley Blvd. New Bedford, MA 02746 Phone: (508) 997-8229

Massachusetts Maritime Academy 101 Academy Drive Buzzards Bay, MA 02532 Phone: 1-800-544-341

Bank of England (BOE) Mortgage 200 Portland St. Boston, MA 02114 Phone: (401) 864-0041

Embrace Home Loans 25 Enterprise Center Middletown, RI 02842 Phone: 800-333-3004 ext 3327

Medical Equipment Dynamics, Inc. 685 Orchard Street New Bedford, MA 02744 Phone: (508) 996-9005

Café Arpeggio New Bedford 800 Purchase St. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 730-9515

Eterna Pharmacy 1183 Acushnet Ave New Bedford, MA 02741 Phone: (508) 817-5044

Café Italia Ristorante 555 Pleasant St. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (774) 202-6933

Family Heating & Air Conditioning 520 Marion Ave Dighton, Ma 02715 Phone: 508-493-7803

MetLife 10 Oak St. Unit #1 Taunton, MA 02780 Phone: (508) 823-1234

Capital House Media 231 Russells Mills Rd. Dartmouth, MA 02748 Phone: (508) 951-5762

HearingLife 514 Hanover St. Fall River, MA 02720 Phone: (508) 674-5461

Coastal Dermatology of Westport 829 American Legion Highway Westport, MA 02790 Phone: (508) 306-1400

Home Helpers 309 Taunton Ave., Unit 4 Seekonk, MA 02771 Phone: (774) 229-2110

The Cottages at Dartmouth Village 274 Slocum Rd. Dartmouth, MA 02747 Phone: (508) 999-0404

Ideal Chiropractic Club 263 Massachusetts Ave. Somerset, MA 02726 Phone: (508) 812-0553

Robertson Painting and Home Repair, Inc. 246 McCabe Street South Dartmouth, MA 02748 Phone: (508) 996-4054 R.W. Catering 651 Point Road Marion, MA 02738 Phone: (508) 996-4694 South Coast Inbound, LLC 165 Hailes Hill Road Swansea, MA 02777 Phone: (508) 491-8420

New York Life Insurance Company One Lakeshore Center, Suite 202-204 Bridgewater, MA 02324

Triple Web Designs 19 C Street Westport, MA 02790 Phone: (774) 644-0090

Parallel Products 969 Shawmut Ave New Bedford, MA 02746 Phone: 1-800-883-9100

TG Consulting 123 Fairway Dr. Dartmouth, MA 02747 Phone: (508) 233-3913

People Acting in Community Endeavors, Inc. (PACE, Inc.) 166 William St. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 999-9928

Hundreds Attended the SouthCoast Job Fair ter if you had a GED-level education, or a PHD in a specific field, we had employment opportunities for everyone. We strategically set this event up in such a manner." According to statistics courtesy of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, only about 42% of chambers of commerce are actively engaged in economic and Nearly 100 employers participated in the SouthCoast Job Fair. Pictured (L-R), SouthCoast Behavioral Health, Servpro of New workforce development. Bedford/ Dartmouth, & Couto Construction. “As we continue to shape our The fifth annual "SouthCoast Job and national employers with over 500 pany, New Bedford Public Schools, chamber and organization in the the City of New Bedford, Southcoast Fair" took place on Thursday, April local area job seekers and students. 21st century, we need to find new, Health System, Couto Construction 18, 2019 on the campus of Greater innovative ways to keep our chamber and BASK Inc. New Bedford Regional Vocational Employers offered internships, entry relevant amongst our constituency Technical High School. level, part-time, seasonal and full-time and community,” explained Abreu. "What helped make our event so suc- “Less than 1-out-of-2 chambers across jobs for those with a GED or high cessful was the fact that we welcomed the country are actively involved in The "SouthCoast Job Fair," a regional school diploma-equivalence, and a wide-range of different employers of- employment matters, and we’re one partnership between the Chamber, those requiring as much as a doctorfering different career opportunities," of them. I am very proud of the work Lifestream, the Greater New Bedford ate. said Ian Abreu, Manager of Business Workforce Board and Mass Hire The we’re doing and will continue to do Development & Public Policy at the Greater New Bedford Career Center,, Some of the employers on the wide in the months and years ahead.” SouthCoast Chamber. "It didn't mathelped connect over 80 local, regional spectrum included: Acushnet Com-

Recent Events

1. 1. Mayor Jon Mitchell delivered his annual State of the City Address to nearly 500 guests at New Bedford High School.* 2. The Annual Seafood Buyers Tour gave buyers from around the world information about the seafood industry in New Bedford.* 3. Guests at the April Business After Hours at Inspired Bath in Dartmouth. 4. Guests at the April Business After Hours at the Bayside in Fairhaven.*

Business After Hours

5. Carney Academy celebrated the ribbon cutting of their school STAR store, which

Thursday, May 16, 2019 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at

Wednesday, June 5, 2019 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at

YMCA 276 Gulf Rd. South Dartmouth, MA 02748

Waypoint Event Center 185 MacArthur Dr. New Bedford, MA

Sponsored by:

rewards students for positive behavior through the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports program.* 6. Eterna Pharmacy celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony at their New Bedford location. 7. Guests enjoyed the fun atmosphere at the March Business After Hours at the Hampton Inn Fairhaven.* 8. The March Good Morning SouthCoast featured healthcare experts and their thoughts and advice on collaborating to make heathcare more accessible and affordable.* 9. Guests at the March Business After Hours at the Hampton Inn Fairhaven.*

(*photos by Sergio: badmonkeypics@outlook.com)

Visitors Bureau Continues to Promote Tourism

The SouthCoast Chamber covers a variety of consumer needs- including tourism! The Southeastern Massachusetts Visitors Bureau (SMVB) is housed within the SouthCoast Chamber and represents the 20 towns and cities of Bristol County. The mission statement of the SMVB is to serve the interests of member businesses while advocating business advancement, economic growth and job creation for the benefit of the Southeastern region of Massachusetts. Members of the SMVB receive unique co-op opportunities,

Upcoming Friday Forums The SouthCoast Chamber will be having two unique and exciting Friday Forums this May. The first is on May 10, 2019 on the topic of ” HR Trends”. The second is May 31, 2019 on the topic of “How money works”. Both these dates are at the time frame of 9 - 10 am and both taking place at the Chamber Office located at 227 Union Street, Mezzanine 2, New Bedford, MA . The Forum on May 10th is about how the World of Human Resource is changing year after year. The event will include conversations on Unconscious Bias, Discrimination of age and sex, the new Paid FMLA mandated in Massachusetts on 7/1, Pregnancy Fairness Act, Millennials, Boomers…It’s a lot to understand. We will tip you off on some trends for 2019 that will help your business survive the age of Social Media, Scandal and Subpoenas. The speaker of the Friday Forum on May 31st is Nelson Linhares who is a fully licensed financial advisor, holds

an MBA and is a former math teacher. Nelson Linhares from Primerica will be giving a Friday Forum about "How Money Works". This presentation will go over the benefits a tax- free IRA can have on retirement. Attendees will learn to maximize the performance of their 401K or employee sponsored plan and how to implement financial education into their business. Friday Forums are a great opportunity to take advantage of professionals who are experts in their field and willing to share their knowledge with Chamber Members at no cost. For more information contact Ashley Wojtunik at awojtunik@southcoastchamber.com or call 508-999-5231.

member discounts and the chance to be featured in nation-wide advertising campaigns. Members of the SMVB also receive an enhanced website listing with social media links, photos and business information. Anyone interested in learning more about the SMVB can contact Ashley Wojtunik, Marketing and Tourism Coordinator, at ashley@ visitsemass.com or visit the new SMVB website www.visitsemass.com.

May/June Featured Member Discount Cindy Irving Photography - Headshot Special

To set up your discount or to view a complete list of discounts currently available to Chamber members, please visit www.southcoastchamber.com or call 508-999-5231

Calendar of Chamber Committee Meetings May Government Affairs - Friday, May 10th - 8:30 a.m. Board of Directors - Thursday, May 23rd - 8:00 a.m.

We can’t stop with the LOL’s (Lending Out Loans) ■ Auto Loans ■ Mortgage Loans ■ Business Loans

June Government Affairs - Friday, June 14th - 8:30 a.m. Board of Directors - Thursday, June 27th - 8:00 a.m.

Visit our website today for more information!

NEW BEDFORD, MA • Indoor/Outdoor DAVID LEBEAU • Weddings President • Festivals 508-993-1085 • Corporate Events dave@lightworksproductions.net • Theatre

www.lightworksproductions.net

www.firstcitizens.org | 800-642-7515 13

SouthCoast Women's Forum continued from front cover

ownyourworth.com.

and has been featured in The New York Times, Glamour, CNN Money and more. She lives with her husband in Boston, MA. You can learn more about her work at www.

Shaleen Title, Commissioner, Cannabis Control Commission Shaleen Title was jointly appointed in 2017 by the Massachusetts governor, treasurer, and attorney general to serve in the social justice seat on the Commission. Named to the Boston Business Journal's 2018 list of the 50 most powerful people in Boston, she has won several awards for her advocacy work and her efforts to bring more women and people of color into drug policy reform and the cannabis industry. Before her appointment, she co-authored the Massachusetts marijuana legalization referendum and has consulted on state and local marijuana policy around the country. As an attorney specializing in marijuana regulations, she has provided regulatory expertise for leading marijuana consulting firms. She also served as founder of a womenled recruiting firm and as a founding board member of the Minority Cannabis Business Association, where she led the drafting of the first model bill created to give states guidance to implement a process of reinvestment and reconciliation. Commissioner Title holds a business

degree, law degree, and Master's degree from the University of Illinois and was previously a consultant at Deloitte. The discussion will be moderated by Shelley Cardoos, Director of Programs, E For All After graduating from UMass Dartmouth with a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts, Shelley began working for AHEAD, LLC. While working for this entrepreneurial South Coast company, Shelley created and grew her own t-shirt and design business as well as running CRAFT-O-RAMA, a local arts and crafts event. Over the years, CRAFTO-RAMA transformed into a seasonal holiday pop-up shop featuring crafts by local artists. Shelley's love for community, creativity, business, and mid-sized cities led her to EforAll. In September 2015, Shelley joined Entrepreneurship for All (EforAll), a nonprofit focused on economic and social impact through inclusive entrepreneurship. As Executive Director, she helped launch the program in New Bedford and Fall River and was promoted to Director of Programs for EforAll in January 2018. Shelley has been on the board of Downtown New Bedford Inc. and also served as a committee member for Love the Ave and South End Engaged. She has volunteered for AHA! Steering Committee and 3rd Eye Youth Empowerment, Inc. She coordinated New Bedford Open Studios in 2010, was member and chair of the New Bedford Local Cultural Council, co-founded Soap Box Social and New Bedford Art Museum's group Contemporaries. Shelley was honored to receive the SouthCoast 5 Emerging Leader Award in June 2015.

The SouthCoast HR Council meets monthly September through May. The council is open to all Chamber members with an interest in human resources. For more information or to register, contact Dorothy Botelho at: dbotelho@southcoastchamber.com or 508-999-5231 ext. 101.

www.southcoasthrcouncil.com Sponsored by:

ENTERPRISING MINDS Submitted by Joanne Rego, Supported Employment Network Coordinator

Celebrating the History of the SouthCoast Chamber’s Supported Employment Network Program It is amazing the treasures that you find when preparing for a move. Such was the case when sorting through the many boxes and files that the Supported Employment Network Program accumulated for over 30 years. Old photos, article and letters tell the remarkable story of this SouthCoast Chamber’s Supported Employment Network Program. The Supported Employment Network Program was an idea that was developed in 1987 by a group of interested professionals who worked with individuals with developmental disabilities. This group included the office of the Department of Developmental Services. DDS approached the SouthCoast Chamber with a proposal to form a partnership between the two agencies. This partnership created a new and innovative approach to creating job opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. Since its inception, the Chamber’s Supported Employment Network has been molded and changed in many different ways in order to meet the needs of the people it served. Over the years, the Supported Employment Network not only addressed the needs of the job seekers, but also provided a valuable resource for chamber members who were looking to hire trained, skilled and capable employees. The Southcoast Chamber’s Supported Employment Network proved to be a uniquely designed and successful program like no other program within any Chamber of Commerce in this country. The SouthCoast Chamber’s achievements did not go unnoticed. Its outstanding accomplishment has led to not only state recognition, but also led to recognition within the United States and most astounding is that the program has received worldwide recognition. In 2000, the SouthCoast Chamber received recognition and an award at the ADA 10 year celebration ceremony in Boston, Massachusetts. In 2005, hte SouthCoast Chamber was listed

in the United States Department of Labor’s guide and handbook for employers throughout the country who hire employees with disabilities. Our Chamber was listed as the STAR program when it came to practices and procedures to promote hiring people with disabilities. The Chamber’s Supported Employment Network was also highlighted in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s newsletter for its outstanding program. One of the Supported Employment Network’s most fascinating experiences was meeting with representatives from Rotary Russia. The committee from Russia was given a presentation on the SouthCoast Chamber’s Supported Employment Network Program’s history and accomplishments which included showing the committee the video that the Network had developed “Supported Employment: Make It Work for You.” The Russian committee was so impressed with the message in the video that they were determined not to leave unless the Network gave them a copy of the video. This was a request that the Network was pleased to accommodate. The Russian committee’s plan was to show the Network’s video and its progressive services for people with disabilities at large conferences throughout Russia including in big cities like Moscow, Siberia, Saint Petersburg and Novosibirsk. Throughout the years, in addition to developing the Supported Employment video, the Network committee also developed a brochure, participated in a UMass Center for Marketing Research survey, met with a mayor and gave panel discussions and presentation at seminars. The Southcoast Supported Employment Network hosted an annual information session for the Greater New Bedford community titled “Social Security and Working: How it Effects Social Security Benefits”. The Supported Employment Network also had a regular column call Enterprising Minds in the SouthCoast Chamber’s Focus newsletter. Articles often highlighted success

stories of employees with disabilities who were working in the community, skilled job seekers with disabilities and stories that inspired reader about the many benefits of hiring a skilled, talented and loyal employee with disabilities.

-Katie Brienzo from M.O .Life, Inc. was a unique and inspirational young woman. Ms. Brienzo was tragically killed at only 29 years old but had accomplished so much in her short life. Prior to her death she had been successfully Most recently, there were some indiemployed at the New viduals who stood out because of their Bedford Economic outstanding accomplishments. Development Office, Stop and Shop and Market Basket. Katie was also the founder of “HOPES and DREAMS” and Katie Brienzo advocacy group for people with disabilities. Following her death, Katie was recognized by various groups for her accomplishments in life including an award from APSE in Washington D.C. Reece Arnold playing at the Chamber's In 2012 Katie was given the “InspiraApex Awards tional Person of the Year” Award from -Reece Arnold from Better Commuthe New Bedford Standard Times. nity Living, Inc. is a gifted musician Additionally, each year an outstandwho was hired by various members ing person with disabilities is given of the chamber to provide musical an award in memory of Katie at the entertainment at their social events. annual M.O. Life Gala. This award Reece was hired by the SouthCoast is called the Katie Brienzo Lifetime Chamber to play music at the Member Achievement Award. Appreciation event and also at the APEX Awards Reception. These outstanding individuals are just a few of the hundreds of talented people with disabilities in our community who have enriched a local business by being a part of the company’s successful work team.

Chris Mercer from Lifestream, Inc.and Donald Giumetti proprietor of Shepard Group, Inc. -Chris Mercer from Lifestream, Inc. was hired by Donald Giumetti proprietor of Shepard Group, Inc. after Giumetti read an article in Enterprising Minds indicating that Chris was looking for employment, Giumetti said to himself, “I’m want to hire that guy.” The two continue to banter and share their love for sports in between performing job duties.

Hats off! to our chamber members who have hired an employee with disabilities. You already know it is a wise decision. Participating in supported employment has always been good for business. The SouthCoast Chamber is proud to have been a remarkable benefit to helping people with disabilities find meaningful employment in our community. If you are interested in hiring a person with disabilities please call Better Community Living, Inc. at 508-9994300, Lifestream, Inc. at 508-9914840, or M.O.Life, Inc. at 508-9925978.

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