Greetings Greater Cape Ann!
As we Spring forward, there is much in bloom at the Chamber!
We are actively addressing labor challenges in the region and collaborating with community partners for solutions. On March 7th we are pleased to host our Economic Outlook Breakfast at Cake Ann with Secretary of Labor Lauren Jones as our keynote speaker. Also on March 7th, we continue to focus on workforce development and education at our Annual Greater Cape Ann Career and Educational Advancement Fair at Gloucester High School. This year the event will host over 80 colleges and universities and 40 businesses as we focus on careers, internships, and expanding educational opportunities.
The Chamber continues to meet with our community partners, elected officials, and members of our Division Meetings. Division Meetings are important for members to learn current information from each community, provide feedback on relevant issues, and engage in collaborative discussions. Also, in 2024, we initiated informal listening sessions in each community. The listening sessions are great for connecting with the Chamber team, discussing ideas and initiatives, and networking with other members.
We are pleased to announce the opening of our Annual Low-Number License Plate Auction on April 8th. Proceeds from the Sale of 11 Remaining Low-Number Plates will be used to support the Cape Ann Community Foundation (CACF), which supports local charitable initiatives and organizations. In addition, this year CACF will allow donors to choose specific 3-digit and 4-digit license plates. For more information on the auction and to register to bid, visit www.lovecapeann.com. The site also provides information about specific plate requests through the foundation and easy instructions for ordering a random Cape Ann license plate through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.
The Cape Ann Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization established in 2015 by the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce to manage and award grants from the proceeds from sales of the Cape Ann License Plate. CACF makes grants for projects that support the foundation’s mission to improve the economy and overall quality of life for the residents of Cape Ann.
There are still advertising opportunities in our Annual Guides and Maps and we encourage you to submit your advertisement by the March 31st deadline. The Chamber distributes almost 300,000 guides and maps throughout the region, and as far as New York state! This is a special opportunity to showcase your business far beyond the reaches of the north shore.
March also brings our annual Irish Sweepstakes! Please join us on March 14th at the Elks and may the Luck O’ the Irish be with you!
Finally, the longer days of Spring are the perfect time to consider joining a committee, attending a new event, or venturing out in the warmer weather to one of the countless amazing destinations and businesses in Greater Cape Ann.
We hope to see you out there in the community this Spring!
Warmly,
Karen Ristuben, President, GCACC Board of Directors
Steve Buckley, CEO Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce