WCACC July E-Newsletter

WCACC news & updates

July Issue

Upcoming Events

See what’s happening this month.

Community News

Recent community updates.

June New Members

Link to new members.

 “I’m honored to step into this role and excited to begin building stronger connections between our schools and local employers,” said Shawntel Baker, Director of Employer Engagement. “I’ve seen firsthand the incredible potential of our students and I believe that by working together, we can open more doors for them to succeed. This partnership is a powerful step toward aligning education with opportunity for every student in Wayne County.” 

Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce Announces Shawntel Baker as Director of Employer Engagement

*All six public schools and Seton

With Indiana’s new high school diploma requirements set to take effect for the graduating class of 2029, communities across the state are reimagining how to best prepare students for life beyond the classroom. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce has partnered with all six school districts in Wayne County to create a new, countywide position: Director of Employer Engagement. The Chamber is proud to announce that Shawntel Baker has been selected to serve as the inaugural Director of Employer Engagement. This new role was intentionally designed to strengthen the local talent pipeline by expanding and aligning work-based learning opportunities for students in grades 9–12. By building strong connections between area businesses and schools, Baker will help ensure that students graduate with real-world experience, setting them up for long-term success in college, careers, and beyond.

Friday, June 13th, was our 2025 Chamber Golf Outing!! We had 46 teams (A RECORD 🎉) playing in AM and PM rounds. A little rain tried to slow us down, but our teams and sponsors powered through and made the most of it. We added some extra fun this year with the Richmond Police Department “arresting” golfers to raise money for Every Day Counts, plus an air cannon that let players launch their golf balls to a hole! Rain aside, it was a day full of laughs, good company, and great memories. Congratulations to our top teams: 1st Place – Circle U Help Center 2nd Place – Brady Ware 3rd Place – Merchants Bank of Indiana Huge thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, Forest Hills Country Club, and all our amazing golfers for making it such a fantastic event! ⛳

Congratulations to our top teams:

1st Place – Circle U Help Center

2nd Place – Brady Ware

3rd Place – Merchants Bank of Indiana

Huge thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, Forest Hills Country Club, and all our amazing golfers for making it such a fantastic event! ⛳

Check out all of the fun pictures!

Join us and the Forward Wayne County Employability Coalition for a dynamic training series designed to help you create impactful, well-supported internship experiences.

*Free to attend, but registration required

Chamber Certificates

Looking for the perfect gift, employee reward, or thank-you present that supports local businesses? Chamber Certificates are a great way to keep money in our community while giving the recipient the freedom to choose where to shop, dine, or unwind!

Did You Know?

  • They can be used at dozens of participating local businesses, from boutiques to restaurants to service providers.

  • They’re perfect for gifts, employee rewards, or incentives—and they keep dollars circulating locally.
  • Every certificate redeemed drives foot traffic to Chamber member businesses, boosting visibility and sales.

  • They help support small businesses without the guesswork of picking the “perfect” gift.

  • When purchased through your business, they are considered as a deductible expense.

  • They can be purchased using a credit card, check, cash or be invoiced.

Learn how to purchase and join our growing list of participating businesses

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!

If you or someone on your team is looking to grow their network and strengthen their leadership skills, apply now for WC Leads — applications are open through July 31!

Email applications to: [email protected]

Or mail to: Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce, 33 S 7th St, Richmond, IN 47374

*The Chamber team will be out of the office this Friday

Blood Drive

July 18

11:30 am – 1:30 pm

33 S 7th St, Richmond, IN

Scan the QR code to schedule your appointment

Chamber 5:35 – Speed Networking

July 31

5:30 – 7:00 pm

Wayne County Historical Museum – Community Room

Get ready to make maximum connections in minimum time! Chamber 5:35 Speed Networking is a high-energy after-hours event where members rotate through rapid-fire introductions, sharing who they are and what they do. It’s fun, fast-paced, and a great way to grow your network in just one evening.

Free to attend, but registration required.

Community Improvement Awards

August 12

5:30 pm

Hartley Hills Golf Course

Grab your tool belt and get ready to celebrate—it’s Hammer Time! We’re recognizing Wayne County businesses that have nailed it when it comes to exterior improvements and new construction. From bold facelifts to brick-by-brick transformations, every nominee project will be honored. Join us as we salute these community builders with the Exemplary, Community Impact, and Community Spirit awards.

$30 – Chamber members, includes dinner

Legislative Series: Representative Jefferson Shreve

August 22

8:00 AM

Forest Hills Country Club

Join us for our August event featuring special guests Representative Jefferson Shreve.

$35 – *Chamber members, breakfast included

*Legislative Series events are Chamber member-exclusive events

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