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Remote, hybrid, in-person. Today’s workforce needs care that effortlessly meets them where they are. More than ever, workforce health is a business strategy. Choose a leader who can help you navigate challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Learn more at kp.org/choosebetter
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CEO Message Looking back at 2024
The City of Modesto continues to grow economically, culturally, and respectfully, alongside the Greater Modesto Chamber of Commerce. We started this year with strong motivation and have successfully achieved many significant goals that positively impact our community and strengthen our partnerships.
Our community is experiencing remarkable growth in several areas. The State Theatre has introduced Intermission, drawing more attention to our downtown area. Sutter Health has broken ground on a new clinic that will house Graduate Medical Education Residents, providing care to Internal Medicine and Family Medicine patients within our community. Kaiser Permanente also broke ground on a new medical office building that will offer more services and care. The City of Modesto and Modesto Chamber of Commerce also launched Shop Greater Modesto virtual shopping mall, a new initiative dedicated to supporting local business and fostering community spirit.
Meanwhile, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce has been growing and thriving. We were excited to announce that in June we were awarded a $408,000 fund from the California Employment Training Panel (ETP). This Multiple Employer Contract (MEC) will reimburse companies that invest in training employees in the manufacturing industry. Additionally, our Modesto Chamber of Commerce Foundation awarded scholarships to 10 students to support their trades based training. Lastly, we are proud to share that we were recognized as the Best Chamber of the 209 across the Central Valley.
Our second annual Touch a Truck event was a tremendous success! This free community event not only brought
families and individuals together but also raised proceeds to once again benefit the Modesto Chamber of Commerce Foundation. We anticipate award many more trades-based scholarships in the coming spring. These scholarships are designed to empower young individuals pursuing their field of interest or young adults looking to transition into a new career path. We are incredibly proud of this milestone and remain committed to supporting the next group of aspiring scholars.
We are not stopping here! All our efforts are dedicated to bettering our community, and we cannot do it alone. Our mission is to serve the greater Modesto area by supporting regional business and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, economic development, connectivity, and business education. Our door is open to everyone, regardless of age, interest, profession, or industry sector. We strive to offer something to everyone.
I invite you to join us in our efforts to enhance and contribute to a thriving and successful region where we can all live, work, and grow. Together, let’s continue to create an inviting space for families, businesses, and opportunity. There is so much to be proud of here in the valley, and the best is yet to come.
With warm regards, Trish
Each member of the Chamber is important, no matter the size of business. We desire for local businesses and organizations to succeed and thrive. To reach this goal we provide exposure, opportunities to engage with Regional Electeds and community partners, as well as networking with businesses and organizations across industries. We work to better our community by providing up-to-date education and training, certifying qualifying businesses as Green, and providing advocacy on City, State, and Federal levels. The Chamber is a family of dedicated professionals striving to make a difference in their business and way of life. Whatever your business needs are, we invite you to join us.
To execute our adopted mission we have developed an acronym that helps keep us focused. That acronym is “CARES: Community, Advocacy, Relationships, Education and Service.”
C - Community
At its heart, the Modesto Chamber is a community of like-minded business owners who share the vision for enjoying a thriving economy and creating and maintaining our community as a vibrant place to live, work and play. With over 100 years of history and experience in the Greater Modesto Area, we understand what it means to be a business owner and customer in our community, with featured events such as local and regional forums, Ag Aware, Harvest Luncheon, and Family Day. Chamber members get the opportunity to actively engage in and influence the community they live and work in.
A - Advocacy
The Modesto Chamber supports local businesses and is an active advocate for the common interest of its members. The Chamber has an Economic Development Committee and a Government Relations Council. These advocacy committees are dedicated and proactive in representing our members and community. They work to address business initiatives and relieve the regulatory burdens businesses face may face. The Chamber is also honored to certify local businesses and organizations through our California Green Business Network Stanislaus Program. Through this we create more conscientious and sustainable ways of life while lowering the cost of doing business for our community and future generations.
R - Relationships
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce specializes in building relationships and serving as the nexus to businesses, nonprofit organizations, and governmental agencies. With over a dozen Committees, Programs, and Events in which our members can participate, the Chamber offers ample opportunity to meet and connect with other business owners in our community. As a relational organization, the Chamber works with its members to ensure the opportunity to connect and grow in every niche and industry to help build and cultivate long-lasting relationships among business owners and community partners alike.
E - Education
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce values education and offers members the opportunity to stay on the leading edge with new and emerging information and training that will set your business apart from the rest. In partnership with Modesto Junior College, the Chamber is pleased to offer an assortment of trainings applicable to any business or industry for credited completion through our Chamber University platform. Our Chamber also works with members to provide a platform to speak to their own industry expertise and invite other members to learn from those leading our local industries.
S - Service
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce offers its members a wide range of opportunities to promote and engage their business across industry and community lines. The Chamber Weekly E-Blast, Website, and our Progress Magazine provide opportunities to advertise and promote your business, keep up to date with articles about local businesses in our community, and stay in the loop about up-and-coming Chamber and community events. Our Chamber also offers indemand materials, such as Member contact list, Federal and State compliance posters, export document services, and so much more. Chamber members can also personalize their business profile within our website and have access to our Member-Only Information Center, where members can connect with other members, boost their social media presence, promote job postings, public events, and member-to-member discounts.
Mission stateMent
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving the greater Modesto Area, regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, economic development, connectivity and business education.
executive coMMittee
Chairperson – Kirstie Boyett Zacharias, American Leadership Forum- Great Valley Chapter
Immediate Past Chairman – Michael Gaffney, Pacific Gas & Electric
Vice Chairman, Internal Operations – Pat Gillum, Patricia A. Gillum, CPA
Vice Chairman, External Operations – John Villines
board of directors
Garrett Ardis - Huff Construction Company Inc.
Brad Blakely - Edward Jones
Kirstie Boyett Zacharias - American Leadership Forum- Great Valley Chapter
Aphriekah DuHaney West - Kaiser Permanente
Michael Gaffney-PG&E
Pat Gillum - Pat Gillum Cpa's
Victor Gomez Terres - Blue Diamond Growers
David Halvorson Jr. - Resurrection Brands
Amy Jefferies - Gianelli Nielsen
Courtney Lagorio - F&M Bank
Brian McDermott - NTT
Michael Moradian Jr. - Peace of Mind Pest Control & Home Inspections
Allan Morris - Bank of Stockton
Peggy O'Donnell - Mid Valley Promotions
Edgar Perez - American AgCredit
Stephen Qualls - Central Valley Division of the League of California Cities
Jonathan Raymond - BBSI
Bill Robinson - Prinicpal Financial
Kari Santos - IJ Larsen Pumps
Christine Schweininger - Valley Builders Exchange, Inc.
Dejeune Shelton - Modesto Junior College
Community Education
John Villines - Modesto Gospel Mission
Kelly Tallant-Martin - Vintage Fair Mall
Laura Ward - Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions
President & CEO
Trish Christensen Modesto Chamber of Commerce tchristensen@modchamber.org
Government relations CouncilSpeaker: TBA Topic: TBA
Women in business – Coffee & Conversations
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM Location TBD
Mixer: Security Public Storage
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM 3941 McHenry Ave, Modesto
ribbon Cutting – Sierra Vista
4:00 – 4:30 PM 906 Imperial Ave, Modesto
annual Soiree
5:30 PM – 8:30 PM Modesto Centre Plaza 1000 L Street, Modesto
economic Development Committee –Pending
rising Professionals Pending
Women in business Pending
Government relations CouncilSpeaker: TBA Topic: TBA
Welcome and ambassador team meeting 8:00 am
Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J Street Modesto
Stanislaus Green Team Pending
business u Pending
*See website for more detail. Find Zoom Registry links and more at www.modchamber.org
Please note that calendar events and details are subject to change.
2025 Program and Committee Sponsorship Opportunities
We invite you to support the Modesto Chamber of Commerce and its key initiatives in 2025! Your participation helps sustain our mission to empower businesses and strengthen the local economy. Consider an annual sponsorship gift and align your brand with programs and committees that reflect your values and business goals.
Program Sponsorship Tiers
Modesto Chamber programs are designed to provide businesses with opportunities to demonstrate leadership within the community, enhance their visibility, and foster meaningful engagement. These programs connect businesses with local leaders, promote collaboration, and enc ourage active participation in initiatives that support economic development and strengthen the bonds within the community.
Business U - Rising Professionals Women in Business Sponsor
$250 – Host Sponsor
$500 – Meeting Sponsor
$750 – Presenter Sponsor
$1250 – Outreach Sponsor
$2500 – Partner Sponsor
CA Green Business Network Stanislaus Stanislaus Green Team Sponsor
$500 – Green Sponsor
$1000 – Outreach Sponsor
$2500 – Sustainability Sponsor
$5000 – Nexus Sponsor
Leadership Modesto Sponsor
$500 – Host Sponsor
$750 – Presenters Sponsor
$1500 – Transportation Sponsor
$2500 – Retreat Sponsor
$5000 – Leaders Sponsor
Committee Sponsorship Tiers
Modesto Chamber committees are designed to give members a voice in shaping the future of the local economy by participating in key decision-making processes. Through involvement in these committees, members play an active role in advocacy, collaborate on regional initiatives, and contribute to sustainable growth, all while demonstrating their commitment to Modesto’s long-term success.
Ambassador Team - Business and Education Economic Development Government Relations Council - Welcome Team Sponsor
$250 – Host Sponsor
$500 – Meeting Sponsor
$750 – Presenter Sponsor
$1000 – Community Sponsor
$2500 – Outreach Sponsor
Contact the Modesto Chamber of Commerce at 209-577-5757 or info@modchamber.org to explore sponsorship opportunities for the 2025 year. Each spo nsorship level provides unique branding benefits, such as recognition in promotional materials, event signage, Chamber communications, and more. Customizable packages are available to elevate your business's presence and highlight your commitment to our community. We invite you to choose the program or committee that aligns with your business goals and thank you for your continued partnership in stren gthening and growing Modesto's business community in 2025.
shop greater Modesto: a Community Marketplace
In today's fastpaced digital world, supporting local businesses has never been more important. Enter Shop Greater Modesto, an innovative online marketplace launched by the Modesto Chamber of Commerce to bridge the gap between local artisans and the community. This platform not only allows customers to shop from the comfort of their homes but also helps promote and expand the reach of small businesses in the area.
The website boasts a diverse array of products, including handmade soaps, candles, custom artwork, and clothing. Each item is crafted with care, reflecting the unique talents and creativity of Modesto's local entrepreneurs.
The platform's user-friendly design ensures a seamless shopping experience, accommodating users with options available in both English and Spanish. This inclusivity aims to make the marketplace accessible to a wider audience, thereby fostering a stronger sense of community.
The launch of Shop Greater Modesto is supported by a generous $46,778 grant from the city of Modesto, which covers the first year of operations, including the annual $25,000 licensing fee. The initiative's goal is ambitious yet attainable: to accommodate up to 250 businesses in its first year and potentially host 2,000 businesses within a few years. This growth is expected to create a significant impact on the local economy, providing small businesses with the opportunity to thrive in a competitive market.
In addition to the financial backing, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce has partnered with local financial institutions and the Valley Sierra Small Business Development Center to offer funding and support for businesses on the site. This collaboration ensures that local entrepreneurs have the resources and assistance they need to succeed in this digital marketplace.
Shop Greater Modesto stands as a beacon of hope for small businesses, offering them a platform to reach a broader audience and expand their operations. It's a win-win situation for both businesses and customers, fostering a more connected and supportive community.
In summary, Shop Greater Modesto is more than just an online marketplace; it's a communitydriven initiative that celebrates and supports the ingenuity of local artisans. By shopping on this platform, customers contribute to the growth and sustainability of Modesto's small business ecosystem. So next time you're looking for a unique gift or simply want to support local businesses, visit Shop Greater Modesto and discover the treasures our community has to offer.
Expertise Makes the Difference
Our partnership with HUB International has made it possible to offer our clients more than ever before. The combination of our local knowledge and expertise along with the resources of one of the nation’s premier insurance companies allows us to bring you creative and cost-effective solutions that are right on target for your businesses needs. Talk to us and see what the advantage of real expertise can do for you and your business.
touch a truck 2024: building Community, Inspiring futures
The 2024 Touch A Truck event, held at the Modesto Junior College Ag Pavilion, was nothing short of a spectacular success. With over 4,000 attendees, this family-friendly day of exploration and fun brought the Modesto community together in a truly unforgettable way.
Free and open to the public, Touch A Truck offered children and adults the unique opportunity to get up close with the impressive vehicles that keep our city and industries running. From massive construction equipment to emergency response vehicles, guests were invited to climb aboard, take photos, and meet the professionals behind the wheel. The excitement reached new heights with a special helicopter landing, thrilling attendees of all ages.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere were food trucks, offering a diverse selection of local bites, and a dedicated Family Resource Area, where attendees could explore a range of services and programs available to support families in the community. It was a day that combined learning, fun, and family engagement, all while connecting attendees with essential resources.
A Lasting Impact on Education and Opportunity
While Touch A Truck delivered excitement and education for families, its impact reaches far beyond the day’s festivities. Generous sponsorships from local businesses directly funded scholarships for individuals pursuing careers in skilled trades and technical fields. These scholarships provide invaluable support for anyone looking to enhance their skills and build successful futures in fields that are critical to the local and national economy.
A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors and Hosts
This year’s event would not have been possible without the overwhelming support of our sponsors and partners. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the local businesses whose contributions helped make this day possible, and to Modesto Junior College’s Ag Pavilion for hosting such a fantastic event.
Touch A Truck is a shining example of the power of community. It brings families together, connects them with essential resources, and creates real-world opportunities for those pursuing education in technical fields. As we look forward to the future, we’re excited to continue making an impact on our community and inspiring the next generation of skilled professionals.
Modesto Chamber of Commerce's ETP announcement: a Game-Changer for Local Businesses
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce recently announced that it has been awarded a $408,000 multiple-employer contract from the California Employment Training Panel (ETP). This funding is aimed at helping local businesses bridge the skill gap for new and existing workers, addressing industry challenges, and seizing growth opportunities.
The ETP-funded training focuses on the manufacturing industry, providing extensive training in areas such as maintenance mechanics, information technology, and robotics. With the increasing complexity of new technology and automation, this training is crucial for equipping workers with the necessary skills to thrive in today's competitive market.
The Chamber's initiative is designed to foster economic growth and sustainability in the region by offering growth opportunities, increased wages, and career advancement for workers. The training programs will cover various aspects of manufacturing, including maintenance, operations, logistics, business acumen, and quality control.
One of the key benefits of this program is the reimbursement of training costs for employers, allowing them to invest in their workforce without bearing the full financial burden. This support is expected to help businesses grow their operations and expand their employee base, ultimately benefiting the entire community.
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is partnering with local manufacturing companies and educational institutions, such as the VOLT Institute, to implement these training programs. By collaborating with these entities, the Chamber aims to create a robust ecosystem that supports both businesses and workers. Additionally, the Chamber has already submitted their first invoice, and companies participating in the contract are currently in the process of being reimbursed for their training.
In summary, the ETP Announcement by the Modesto Chamber of Commerce is a significant step towards enhancing the skills of the local workforce and promoting economic development in the region. This initiative not only benefits individual businesses but also contributes to the
Coffee &Conversations
January 20th 2025
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Engage, Empower, Excel! Kickstart the year with our first meeting dedicated to women in business. This session is designed to celebrate and showcase the journey of a remarkable woman in business, allowing local business women time to connect and network.
EXPERIENCE:
Featured Speaker: A dynamic woman sharing her invaluable experience.
Engaging Discussions: Network and exchange ideas with fellow businesswomen.
Coffee & Light Breakfast: Fuel up with a delightful breakfast spread.
OPPORTUNITIES AWAIT!
Learn about sponsorship opportunities for this program. Inquire for more details. Openings available for the Women in Business Steering Committee. Be a driving force for change!
REGISTER
Meet Your Elected Officials: Strengthening Community Connections at Redwood Café
This year, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce held its annual Meet Your Elected Officials event at the charming Redwood Café in Modesto, CA. The event brought together local leaders, community members, and business owners for a day dedicated to engagement, advocacy, and relationship-building. With over 200 attendees, it served as a vital platform for Modesto residents to meet face-toface with their elected representatives and discuss issues affecting their community.
The event is a key component of the Chamber’s C.A.R.E.S. initiative—Community, Advocacy, Relationships, Education, and Service—which emphasizes fostering strong connections between local government and the business community.
By hosting events like this, the Chamber works to ensure that Modesto's business leaders have access to policymakers and the opportunity to express their concerns and collaborate on solutions.
Set against the backdrop of Redwood Café’s welcoming atmosphere, Meet Your Elected Officials featured a diverse lineup of elected representatives, including Modesto Mayor Sue Zwahlen, State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil, and Congressman Josh Harder. The event provided a forum for open dialogue on critical issues such as public safety, business regulations, workforce development, and economic growth.
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This event exemplified the Chamber's commitment to advocacy by allowing businesses and community members to interact directly with their leaders. Attendees were able to engage in meaningful conversations about how legislation and local policies are shaping Modesto’s business landscape, helping foster a collaborative environment that encourages problem-solving and innovation.
As the Chamber of Commerce continues its mission to strengthen the relationship between local government and businesses, the Meet Your Elected Officials event at Redwood Café highlighted the importance of open communication and collaboration. The Chamber is committed to providing ongoing opportunities for dialogue, supporting local businesses, and promoting community-driven solutions.
Looking ahead, the Chamber will continue to advocate for Modesto’s business community, fostering partnerships and encouraging active engagement with elected officials. By doing so, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce ensures that local businesses and their interests remain at the forefront of the city’s growth and success.
IC refrigeration Celebrates 80 Years on Chamber Membership
BY KEVIN SILVA
IC Refrigeration was established in 1940, by Bill Imfeld and wife Margrete along with business partner Paul Cloutier. Together they formed Imfeld Cloutier (I.C.) Refrigeration, which focused on dairy refrigeration and mechanical operations.
In the 1950s and 60s IC Refrigeration continued establishing themselves as a primary Residential Heating and Air Conditioning Company.
In 1963 Bill’s son Dick Imfeld, joins the company and eventually assumes full control and will be a major part of it for the next 49 years before retiring in 2022.
In 1987 the business would move its operations to its current location in Ceres located at 2216 Rockefeller Drive.
In 1997 Kevin Silva would join the IC team. Over the next 25 years Kevin will help transform the company to be more diversified by adding the following departments to better serve their customers: Restaurant division, Custom Stainless-
steel fabrication, Hood Cleaning, Fire Suppression, Bead Blasting, and powder coating. These services will increase the company to over 70 employees and span the service area from Bakerfield serving all of Northern California.
In 2012, Kevin started purchasing shares of the company first buying out Dick’s son Rich and then by 2022 he purchased the remaining shares from Dick, making him sole owner.
What sets IC apart from other companies is its diversification. We try to pay attention to what the customer’s needs are and provide whatever that is. This is a challenge given the status of the current market and ever-changing cost of equipment and material. We also try to stay competitive and relevant in the current marketplace while keeping a steady workforce.
I can’t take all the credit I have had a great team of dedicated employees around me that have helped us get to where we are today and are still working towards helping us be the best company we can be.
Connecting Modesto businesses: Chamber Mixers
Networking is essential for a thriving business community, and the Modesto Chamber of Commerce brings people together through its popular mixers. These events, including Members Mix & Mingle and multi-chamber mixers, create opportunities for local businesses to build relationships, share ideas, and collaborate.
Members Mix & Mingle: A Chance to Showcase and Connect
The Members Mix & Mingle provides Chamber members a relaxed setting to connect outside regular business hours. Hosts invite fellow members to their workplace, offering a behind-the-scenes look at their operations, products, and services. Each host gets the chance to highlight their unique story during the event.
This year, many businesses have participated, ranging from retail stores to service providers. Each event has brought its own unique touch, making it a valuable experience for attendees. For those running home-based businesses, the Chamber’s conference room is available, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to host.
Multi-Chamber Mixers: Reaching Beyond Modesto
Multi-chamber mixers take networking a step further
by partnering with neighboring chambers. These events bring together professionals from different regions, creating broader connections and fresh opportunities for collaboration. By attending, businesses can expand their networks and explore partnerships that might not otherwise happen.
These mixers show the power of connecting communities, helping businesses tap into new resources and ideas while building regional ties.
A Recap of This Year’s Success
This year’s mixers have been a highlight for many Chamber members. They have strengthened connections, introduced new opportunities, and allowed businesses to share what makes them stand out. Whether hosting or attending, these events offer valuable experiences and lasting benefits.
If you’re looking to grow your network and get more involved in Modesto’s business scene, consider participating in an upcoming mixer.
They’re not just about exchanging business cards but about forming genuine relationships and finding new ways to collaborate.
Photos by: Rojas Photography
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a Celebration of agriculture and Community recap of the 2024 ag aware and harvest Luncheon
By Felicia Lopez / Modesto Chamber of Commerce Event Coordinator
The Modesto Chamber of Commerce recently hosted two hallmark events in the region’s agricultural calendar: the 2024 Ag Aware Luncheon and the 2024 Harvest Luncheon. Both events drew an impressive attendance of over 350 participants at each event, underscoring the importance of agriculture in our local economy and community.
Ag Aware Luncheon: Empowering the Future of Ag Education
The Ag Aware Luncheon, held at the Modesto Junior College Ag Pavilion, brought together leaders in agriculture, business professionals, and educators to support and celebrate the future of agricultural education. The primary focus of the event was to raise funds for the Future Farmers of America (FFA) programs in local schools, ensuring that students have the tools, training, and resources needed to become tomorrow’s ag leaders.
Attendees heard from keynote speaker Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell, a leading researcher in sustainable agriculture, from UC Davis. Dr. Mitchell delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the growing importance of integrating sustainable practices in modern farming to address global challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and food security. His insights resonated with both seasoned farmers and the younger generation, emphasizing the vital role of education and innovation in agriculture’s future.
The Ag Aware Luncheon also featured a moving testimonial from local FFA students, who shared their journey through the program and how it had shaped their aspirations for a career in farming. This heartwarming story reminded the audience of the direct impact their support has on students’ lives and the future of the agricultural industry.
In addition to supporting FFA, the event provided a platform for networking and discussion among local ag professionals, government representatives, and community members, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Harvest Luncheon: Celebrating the Bounty of the Season
The Harvest Luncheon, hosted in early September at the Modesto Junior College ACE Pavilion, was a vibrant celebration of Central Valley’s agricultural richness and the hardworking individuals who make it all possible. The event raised funds for the Modesto Chamber of Commerce Voss-Berryhill Modesto Junior College Ag Scholarships, which provide vital financial support to students pursuing degrees in agriculture.
Dr. Frank Mitloehner, the renowned air quality specialist and director of the CLEAR Center at UC Davis, headlined the luncheon as the keynote speaker. Dr. Mitloehner delivered an insightful presentation on the future of sustainable livestock farming and how innovations in animal agriculture can reduce greenhouse gas emissions without compromising productivity. His talk highlighted the importance of balancing environmental stewardship with feeding the world’s growing population challenge, particularly relevant to the Central Valley.
The Harvest Luncheon showcased fresh produce from the region, serving as a testament to the quality and abundance of local crops. Attendees were treated to a delicious farm-to-table lunch, featuring dishes highlighting the valley’s diverse agricultural bounty, from fresh fruits and vegetables to locally raised meats.
In addition to the keynote, the event provided an opportunity for scholarship recipients to share their stories and express their gratitude for the support that has helped them pursue their education in agriculture. Their words served as a reminder of the far-reaching impact that scholarships can have, not only on individual
students but also on the broader agricultural community.
Both the Ag Aware Luncheon and the Harvest Luncheon exemplify the Modesto Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to fostering agricultural education and supporting the future of farming in the Central Valley. These events serve as more than just fundraisers; they are platforms for celebrating the agricultural industry, inspiring future leaders, and addressing the challenges that lie ahead.
As we look to the future, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce remains dedicated to supporting the next generation of farmers, researchers, and ag professionals who will carry the torch forward.
Inspire Youth, Inspire dreams: a Career expo empowering Modesto’s 8th graders
By Felicia Lopez
This year’s Inspire Youth, Inspire Dreams 8th Grade Career Expo welcomed more than 3,500 students from Modesto City Schools and the Sylvan Union School District. Held at the Modesto Junior College Ag Pavilion, the event provided an interactive space for junior high students to explore potential career paths, engage with local businesses, and gain insight into future opportunities within their own community.
A Collaborative Effort to Empower Local Youth
The Inspire Youth, Inspire Dreams Expo is the result of strong partnerships between Modesto City Schools, local businesses, and community organizations. This collaborative effort is focused on shaping the future workforce of Modesto by connecting 8th-grade students with career and technical education (CTE) pathways and local employment opportunities.
Students from across both school districts had the chance to explore a wide variety of industries, from healthcare and agriculture to engineering and technology. Through this event, they were able to gain valuable insights that will help guide their high school course selections and set them on the path toward meaningful careers. The hands-on nature of the event helped students discover their natural interests, encouraging them to align their future studies with potential career goals.
Bridging Education and Industry
As junior high students prepare for the transition to high school, the Inspire Youth, Inspire Dreams Expo offered a valuable opportunity for them to engage with both educators and industry professionals. Hands-on exhibits, interactive demonstrations, and presentations allowed students to explore diverse career fields and learn more about the skills and education required for success.
A major focus of the expo was on local CTE programs, showcasing high school pathways in fields like construction, welding, automotive technology, and digital media. These programs give students the opportunity to acquire in-demand skills and certifications, providing them with a competitive advantage when entering the workforce.
Additionally, local businesses from various sectors
participated in the event, showing students the breadth of career options available right here in Modesto. Many students were surprised to learn about the numerous high-paying, high-growth opportunities available within their own community, proving that they don’t have to leave Modesto to build successful and fulfilling careers.
Building a Career Pipeline for Modesto’s Future
The overarching goal of the Inspire Youth, Inspire Dreams Expo is to build a career pipeline that prepares Modesto’s youth to meet the needs of the local workforce. By connecting students with local businesses and CTE programs early in their academic journeys, the expo encourages students to explore their interests and make informed decisions about their future careers.
For the Central Valley, events like this are essential for retaining local talent and building a strong, community-focused economy. By fostering relationships between students, schools, and businesses, the Inspire Youth, Inspire Dreams Expo plays a pivotal role in ensuring that students not only dream big but also see those dreams as achievable within their own community.
Looking to the Future
As the Inspire Youth, Inspire Dreams Expo continues to expand, so does its impact on the future of Modesto’s youth. The event is more than just a career fair—it’s a platform for students to explore the possibilities that exist within their community and gain the tools they need to pursue those opportunities. With each passing year, the hope is to further strengthen the connection between education and industry, ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped to build successful careers in Modesto.
With over 3,500 students participating this year, the Inspire Youth, Inspire Dreams Expo has already started creating lasting change. Through ongoing partnerships between Modesto City Schools, Sylvan Union School District, and local businesses, the community is building a stronger, more skilled, and future-ready workforce. The event serves as a reminder that, with the right guidance and support, Modesto’s young people can dream big—and realize those dreams right here at home.
What’s ahead in 2025: Modesto Chamber of Commerce Programs and Events
As we look forward to 2025, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce remains committed to delivering a diverse lineup of programs and events that bring our mission to life—fostering economic growth, building connections, and giving back to the community. With a focus on collaboration, professional development, and support for local businesses, the Chamber is more dedicated than ever to creating opportunities for engagement and success.
Rising Professionals: Connecting Across Generations
Rising Professionals is designed to connect individuals at all stages of their careers, offering mentorship, networking, and leadership opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, the Rising Professionals group provides a space for growth and learning. In 2025, we’ll introduce the “Rise and Shine with CEOs” series, where participants will have the chance to engage directly with top business leaders. This initiative reflects our mission to cultivate mentorship and professional development, contributing to a stronger, more connected business community.
Women in Business: Empowerment and Growth
The Women in Business program remains a vital part of the Chamber’s outreach, supporting women professionals in their career journeys. In addition to networking events and educational opportunities, 2025 will mark the continuation of the Next Steps Conference, a powerful initiative supporting local women transitioning out of homelessness and reentering the workforce. Through mentorship, training, and resources, Women in Business empowers women to rebuild their careers and lives, reflecting the Chamber’s mission to give back and uplift our community.
Government Relations Council: Shaping Policy for Business Success
The Government Relations Council provides a critical forum for members to stay informed about legislative issues impacting local businesses. By engaging with policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels, the Chamber ensures that its members remain proactive in navigating policy changes. This group exemplifies the Chamber’s commitment to advocacy, helping businesses shape the policies that affect them.
Economic Development Committee: Driving Regional Prosperity
The Economic Development Committee focuses on identifying opportunities for regional growth and supporting local businesses. In 2025, the committee will continue its efforts to attract investment, advocate for infrastructure improvements, and foster economic development. Through its work, the Chamber remains a catalyst for Modesto’s ongoing economic success, promoting innovation and resilience.
Stanislaus Green Team: Leading the Way in Sustainability
The Stanislaus Green Team encourages local businesses to adopt sustainable practices, contributing to both environmental stewardship and economic efficiency. The initiative’s mission aligns with the Chamber’s broader goal of fostering business success through innovation. In 2025, the Green Team will expand its efforts to provide resources and support for businesses looking to integrate eco-friendly practices into their operations.
Business U: Empowering Business Through Education
Our Business U program, in collaboration with SCORE, will continue offering valuable business education and skill development. The monthly Lunch and Learn sessions, held on the fourth Thursday of each month, will feature SCORE mentors and Chamber business leaders, providing insights that help professionals grow their businesses. From marketing strategies to financial management, Business U equips participants with the tools they need to thrive.
Signature Events: Strengthening Connections and Community
The Chamber’s signature events are pillars of community engagement, celebrating local businesses, supporting education, and fostering economic development. Each event is carefully crafted to reflect the Chamber’s mission of collaboration, advocacy, and growth:
Ag Aware: Supporting future agricultural leaders by raising funds for FFA scholarships, this event connects
the business community with the next generation of industry professionals, celebrating the importance of agriculture in our region.
Annual Awards & Anniversaries: Recognizing business excellence and milestones, this event highlights the resilience, innovation, and achievements of local businesses that make Modesto a thriving economic hub.
Meet Your Elected Officials: Providing members with direct access to local policymakers, this event fosters meaningful dialogue on the issues that matter most to businesses, creating opportunities for advocacy and collaboration.
Harvest Luncheon: A tribute to the region’s agricultural heritage, the Harvest Luncheon raises funds for Modesto Junior College agricultural scholarships and supports the future of agribusiness in the area.
Economic Summit: This event offers a deep dive into the local and global economic landscape, equipping businesses with the knowledge they need to navigate challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Touch-A-Truck: A family-friendly event, Touch-ATruck connects the community with the industries that drive our local economy, providing a hands-on experience with large vehicles and equipment.
Regional Multi-Chamber Mixer: Bringing together Chamber members from across the region, this mixer
is a prime opportunity for networking, collaboration, and strengthening business relationships.
Central Valley Business Expo: A showcase of local businesses, this expo provides participants with a platform to promote their services, discover partnerships, and connect with the wider business community.
Inspire Youth, Inspire Dreams 8th Grade Expo:
This educational event introduces local students to a variety of career paths, inspiring the next generation of professionals and fostering a culture of innovation in Modesto.
Join Us in 2025
As we embark on another year filled with opportunities for growth, collaboration, and community service, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce invites you to get involved. By engaging in our programs and events, you’ll not only maximize your membership but also make a real impact on the business community and the city of Modesto. We are dedicated to serving, supporting, and giving back to our community, and we believe that together, we can achieve great things.
Whether you're looking to grow your business, expand your professional network, or contribute to the betterment of our community, 2025 has something for everyone. Join us, and let’s make the next year our best yet!
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