I wish to take a moment to share with you what we are doing here at the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce to respond to COVID-19. As the situation around the coronavirus continues to evolve, we are actively working to ensure the health and safety of our members, volunteers, and staff by taking necessary steps in accordance with the World Health Organization and Center for Disease Control’s best practices.
We take pride in maintaining the highest standards of operating, and in response to the coronavirus, we have taken additional measures developed in consultation with local public health authorities for our members, volunteers, and staff:
- We are following the lead of our Governor Kate Brown’s office, in restricting all non-essential gatherings, along with suspending any events and/or programs which would draw a community crowd of 250 or more individuals for an event. As a member services and community advocacy company, we are well equipped to provide the Salem business community real-time updates on the COVID-19 pandemic and showcase ways which they can be prepared for the coming days and weeks ahead. We have implemented the Governor’s mandate in to limit exposure of infection, while remaining active for our membership and the full Salem business community.
- We encourage our members to avoid large public gatherings, following government-issued best practices.
- A signature weekly event, our Greeters program, will be directly affected by the Governor’s position on large gatherings. Greeters events through the end of March have been canceled.
- Regarding our Salem Chamber & Inspire Foundation events forthcoming, we will be in touch with our membership via email communication and over social media channels to keep our shareholders knowledgeable in real-time with all developments.
We are aware of the complex nature of this community discussion towards precautionary measures and preparedness. Nearly all of our businesses are or will be feeling the financial impact of a local citizenry who are being asked to limit exposure and practice social distancing. We understand the precaution is necessary, especially for those considered to be at a higher risk. Restaurants are noticing a steep decline in guests, as are our hoteliers and countless other service companies. As business owners and operators, we encourage preparation for this slowdown in commerce and the economic realities encompassing this national and global health challenge. In the coming days and weeks, the Salem Chamber will continue to work closely with the Oregon Health Authority and our local health experts to communicate information out to our membership and the entire Salem business community.
During difficult times like these, we believe in the power of community and support – both integral pieces of our Salem Chamber membership. As a society and individuals, it is our responsibility to curb expansion of the virus. The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce will continue to consult with experts and evaluate ways we can continue to support and provide safety to our members, volunteers, and staff as we approach the coming weeks of activity. Thank you for your leadership and commitment to a healthy and prosperous Salem community.
My best,
-Tom Hoffert
CEO
Salem Area Chamber of Commerce