WCACC April E-Newsletter

WCACC news & updates

April Issue

Upcoming Events

See what’s happening this month.

Community News

Recent community updates.

March New Members

Link to new members.

Register to attend our next Legislative Series Breakfast on May 2nd with Senator Jeff Raatz and Representative Brad Barrett.

2025 Legislative Series

Richmond, IN – March 21, 2025 – The Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce hosted Indiana Chamber President & CEO Vanessa Sinders at the Forest Hills Country Club for the first of its three-part Legislative Series. This event gathered local business leaders and Chamber members for an insightful discussion on key economic and policy issues affecting the state and region.

 

Read More

Anniversary Celebration

The Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Anniversary Celebration on Tuesday, March 18th, recognizing over 50 local businesses that reached significant milestones in their membership for 2024. Honoring businesses with anniversaries ranging from 5 to 50 years, the event celebrated their lasting contributions to the community.

These milestones reflect the businesses’ dedication and success in the area, highlighting their role in shaping the local economy and fostering growth throughout the years. The celebration was a reminder of the importance of supporting long-standing businesses that continue to make a positive impact on Wayne County.

Celebrating their 50 years of Chamber membership, Kevin Ahaus shared, “Ahaus has been a chamber member for three generations and we believe a good chamber strengthens the community. 50 years as a member is a great accomplishment, but we appreciate the Wayne County Area Chamber working for all of its businesses with advocacy, marketing and communication to help the Richmond area grow.”

Find the Full List of Anniversaries Here

Key April Events

Full Press Release Here

We have two exciting events coming up this April! The Hiring Fair will take place at the First Bank Richmond Kuhlman Center, offering a great opportunity for job seekers to connect with employers. From 2–4 PM, the event will be open to both college students and the public. Later this month, the National Civics Bee – Live Local Competition will showcase pre-selected students as they go head-to-head for a chance to win and advance to the state competition. Don’t miss this inspiring event highlighting the next generation of civic leaders!

Sip by Sip: Crafting More Than Just Wine

Pilgrimage Wine Company, nestled in the picturesque Ole Cambridge City, Indiana, is a thriving winery that embodies the perfect blend of tradition, passion, and authenticity. The farm, originally purchased in the 1960s on Treaty Line Road, has now evolved into a highly regarded winery, owned and operated by Scott and Emma Eckart, who represent the third generation of family ownership. Their journey from grape growing to winemaking is a testament to their dedication to crafting high-quality wines while honoring their roots and the surrounding community.

The winery occupies a two-structure complex that houses a production facility, tasting room, and a stunning barrel room and cellar. The design of the complex, inspired by Southern European aesthetics, enhances the experience for visitors, offering a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The natural beauty of the vineyard, located along the White Water River and bordered by a certified forest, further complements the tranquil environment. The farm’s connection to the ancient Indian territories only add to its rich heritage.

Read the full story on page 17 of our Annual Report

Save the date for one of the Chamber’s most exciting events of the year – the Chamber Golf Classic!

Get your clubs ready for a day packed with friendly competition and lots of fun!

We’ll see you on June 13th, 2025!

Indiana Chamber of Commerce Work-Based Learning Materials

Here are resources from the 2025 Indiana Work-Based Learning Conference designed to help employers navigate work-based learning. These materials highlight opportunities for employer involvement and showcase best practices.

Expanding High-Quality Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Launching and Managing Registered Apprenticeships: A Step-by-Step Guide

Would you like HYPE to join you in painting sensory walks?

Submit your request here!

Hiring Fair

April 10

9:00 am – 1:30 pm – High School Seniors (Not open to the public)

2:00 – 4:00 pm – Open to Public

First Bank Richmond Expo Hall

Employers interested in participating in this event can contact Shawntel Baker for more information.

Email Shawntel Baker

HYPE Night: Poverty Simulator

April 24

5:30 – 7:30 pm

Central United Methodist Church

This 2-hour interactive workshop gives participants a chance to explore and gain an understanding for those living in poverty. Participants will work in teams to manage a household with everyday barriers challenging them. This workshop is open to ANY Chamber member and is recommended for anyone working with those in poverty. 

Register Here

NCB Live Competition

April 25

6:00 pm

IU East – Whitewater Hall

National Civics Bee live competition for students in grades 6th-8th. 

*Students have been pre-selected for competition.

Legislative Series Breakfast #2

May 2

8:00 – 9:30 am

Forest Hills Country Club

Guest Speakers: Senator Jeff Raatz and Representative Brad Barrett

*Chamber Member Event

$35 – Registration

Register Here

Senior Celebration

May 7

6:00 pm

First Bank Richmond Expo Hall

Wayne County Seniors who met the attendance criteria are invited to take part in Senior Celebration! Prizes, food, games……one lucky winner will walk away with a car or scholarship!

HYPE Lunch N’ Learn

May 16

12:00 – 1:00 pm

Golden Corral

Join us to learn about the mission and work of the Kiwanis Club of Richmond.

Free to attend, but registration requested

​Lunch is at attendee’s expense

Register Here
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