We all know that 2020 was a year like no other. Small businesses went through some really tough times last year. Due to COVID-19 operating restrictions and safety protocols, many lost the ability to serve their customers in ways that they are accustomed to, resulting in lost revenue, and some employees lost their jobs. Students had to learn how to complete their lessons and see their classmates from afar. We lost people that we care for deeply in a very dramatic way. And, in many ways we lost the human connection that sustains us as a society. Not being able to fully connect with friends and family – to hold someone’s hand or give them a hug – was difficult and heartbreaking at times.
But we’re still standing. Prepared to face the challenges and opportunities of 2021. But before we close the chapter of 2020, I want to express my gratitude.
Thank you to the generous funders who partnered with the Chamber to help address the needs of small businesses to combat the negative effects of coronavirus and related restrictive safety measures.
Thank you to leaders within the banking industry who participated in listening/learning sessions with minority-owned businesses – that were some of the hardest hit – to better understand and help address challenges that are unique to these business owners.
This summer, when the call for social justice and an end to systemic racism was stronger than ever, thank you to those who stood up, raised your voices and made immediate changes to your business practices to ensure greater diversity and inclusion.
I also want to thank those of you who simply said: “I don’t know what to do. Can you help me get started?” Because whether you know it or not, as with most challenges in business or life, asking for help is a great place to start.
The subject of systemic racism was the subject of a meeting with our Regional Leadership Council – our investors – which resulted in great conversation that included: a call for employers to create Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Councils and training to provide feedback and recommendations on new DEI initiatives; having open dialog with employees and making sure that diversity is clear and present in company leadership, board members and programming. I look forward to hearing about the progress that’s been made since then, at our next meeting.
I want to thank those who stepped up to help keep our region afloat, willing to do whatever was asked of them. You made our loads lighter and our days brighter.
During this time of COVID-19, we saw food insecurity continue to rise and our community continued to step up. Thanks to those who helped to put food on the table for many families in need through donations or volunteering for food distribution.
I don’t know how we can ever fully thank frontline workers for their heroic efforts taking care of the people of Michigan in a variety of ways – healthcare workers, paramedics, firefighters and police, teachers, grocery store workers, truck drivers and many, many more. Thank you.
Lastly, I want to thank Chamber employees for being champions of our mission and core values, which helped to keep our organization focused on the right things, seize opportunities, and navigate challenges more effectively.
I am truly glad to have 2020 in our rearview mirror. As more and more vaccines are administered, it will be important that we are responsive and agile in how we handle the changing needs along the way.
I hope you will join the Chamber on the journey of 2021, greeting it with hope, civility and optimism.
Tim