I suppose the recent events at the Faribault Chamber of Commerce are still sitting close to my heart as I write this. Sometimes I sit down to write an article, and who knows what will happen when I type.
As we begin a new year, a few things come to mind as you go into a new business year…
- Business Emergency Plans. These ‘plans’ in case of an emergency, including a staff lose, fire, or any number of things can help employees know how to respond to emergencies and perhaps tragedies. We must keep going… our minds know this… but perhaps our hearts will struggle.
- Up-to-date Procedures. How timely, as we here at the Hutchinson Chamber will be going through staff transition as Matt moves over to Citizens Bank. Keeping daily, weekly, monthly and annual procedures current will help those coming in to take over duties, no matter the situation. Allowing people to “just know” what they do, or “I have it all up here” (imagine the motion of them taping at their noggin) simply won’t help anyone left to carry on or pick up where someone has left off.
- Know Your Employees. Know what is happening in their lives. Watch for signs, listen for cues, offer assistance and community resources. We cannot save everyone, but gol’ darn it, let’s try. Make yourself familiar with various local organizations that can help in the cases of Domestic and Sexual Assault, Homelessness, Addiction, Depression, or Suicide Intervention/Prevention.
As I bid you Happy New Year’s, my hope and wish for you and your employees is truly a SAFE, HAPPY and SUCCESSFUL 2017!
McLeod Alliance for Victims of Domestic Violence http://www.mcleodalliance.org 1-800-934-0851
Safe Avenues http://www.willmarshelter.com (800) 792-4210
Common Cup Ministry http://www.common-cup.org (320) 587-2213
United Community Action Partnership http://www.heartlandcaa.org (800) 829-2132
Crisis Text Line to connect with trained counselors about anything Text “Go” to 741741 Free, 24/7
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 (24/7) Press 1 for Veterans line
Police 911- it may seem obvious to some, BUT they are here for emergencies
Non-Emergency situations are invited by Chief Hatten to call 320-587-2242 and speak with an officer of investigator to explore their options. Chief Hatten also offers presenters for work groups and others.
Barb Larson, Faribault Chamber Membership and Event Coordinator died Friday, December 23rd, while staffing the Chamber office over the noon hour. She was shot by her ex-husband, who then killed himself. Barb was very kind, fun and extremely encouraging to others in the industry.