WCACC news & updates

May Issue

Upcoming Events

See what’s happening this month.

Community News

Recent community updates.

April New Members

Link to new members.

Our next Legislative Series Breakfast will be on August 22 with US Representative Jefferson Shreve.

2025 Legislative Series

Richmond, Indiana – May 2, 2025 – This morning, the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the second installment of its 2025 Legislative Series, welcoming State Senator Jeff Raatz and State Representative Brad Barrett for a timely and engaging conversation on key legislative issues.

Local Civics Bee 2025

Top 3 Finalists:

1st Place – Taytem Rivera, Hibberd: Aiding Immigration
2nd Place – Hadley Nutty, Northeastern Middle School: Poverty
3rd Place – Bella Mitchell, Hagerstown Middle School: Animal Shelters

Richmond, IN — April 25, 2025 — On Friday, April 25, the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted the local round of the National Civics Bee® for the second year in a row. The event, held at Whitewater Hall on the campus of Indiana University East, brought together 20 middle school students and two alternates to showcase their civic knowledge and leadership ideas. This year’s event was emceed by Rick Duncan of G101.3

Melissa Vance, President and CEO of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce, shared her thoughts on the event:

“During a time with a heightened political climate, we more than ever need to teach the next generation how to engage in civics in a healthy way. These middle school students have learned more about the foundation of our government and used critical thinking skills to identify ways they can impact the community around them. That’s a win.”

Read Full Press Release Here

New Chamber Committee

IMPACT Committee

The committee’s name, IMPACT, is more than just a label, it’s an acronym that outlines its core mission and values:

Invest in Local Businesses
Market Chamber Member Benefits
Promote Buying Local
Advocate for Business Growth
Connect Members with Resources
Thrive as a Stronger Unit

The IMPACT Committee of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce is a passionate and strategic team dedicated to elevating the local business community. Through targeted initiatives and relationship-building efforts, IMPACT focuses on investing in local businesses, promoting Chamber member benefits, and fostering sustainable growth throughout Wayne County.

Main Streets Kick Off Spring

Main streets are the heartbeat of every town in Wayne County, each offering its own unique charm. This spring and summer, they’re buzzing with exciting events and activities for all ages. Whether you’re exploring your hometown or venturing to a nearby community, there’s always something happening. Discover what’s in store—find links to all the Main Street organizations below.

Richmond Depot District

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!

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!