The Only Way Through is Together

​Simply put, we know times are hard. We also anticipate that Vermont businesses will need continued help for months to come. The financial and emotional pain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is significant, and the way we live and work has fundamentally changed.

We want to remind you that we are in this together. The Vermont Chamber is here to serve you during this period of hardship – as your ally, your educator, and your advocate. To best serve you, we need to hear from you, so reach out any time to connect with me and Vermont Chamber leadership.

Our staff has put all their energy into helping businesses across the state survive the impact of COVID-19, through securing financial and regulatory relief, keeping businesses informed of changing policy and support available, and serving as expert contacts. We have also leveraged our partnerships and relationships, including with Vermont legislators, to get you needed help.

Amid all of this, the Vermont Chamber welcomed new staff members, including me. We are all 100 percent committed to helping your businesses succeed now and into the future.

I moved back to Vermont in March from North Carolina. Here is what I know:

• The team I joined cares deeply about your business. I have watched my colleagues spend countless hours, inside and outside of scheduled work, to understand and communicate information businesses need to survive this pandemic.
• I have seen our staff work tirelessly testifying in support of legislation that keeps businesses in Vermont afloat.
• I have had the pleasure of meeting many of you, our Vermont Chamber members, virtually – and I am so proud of how Vermont businesses have shown up during these challenging times. You have shown your true colors – displaying compassion, flexibility, and community spirit.

We are now moving into recovery. The Vermont Chamber remains devoted to helping you – through our team’s service with state leaders directing economic recovery efforts and through careful stewardship of the path forward for business.

Thank you for supporting us as we continue to support you. The only way through this is together. Together, we are stronger, and we will emerge from this crisis on solid ground.
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​Sincerely,
​
Erica Canada, ecanada@vtchamber.com
Director of Membership Engagement and Development
​Vermont Chamber of Commerce

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