York County Chamber of Commerce Honored as 2024 Outstanding Chamber of the Year

York, South Carolina Celebrates Achievement at Annual Chamber Conference

York, SC – The Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (CACCE) recognized the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce as the 2024 Outstanding Chamber of the Year during their Annual Management Conference held at the Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock, NC, on Wednesday evening.

This prestigious accolade is reserved for chambers with fewer than 700 members, highlighting significant accomplishments over the past 18 months. The award seeks to acknowledge chambers that not only initiate activities but also create positive, measurable results in their community.

Significant Achievements Over Last Eighteen Months

Under the leadership of the York County Regional Chamber (YCRC), the organization has made strides in its three-year strategic plan. This plan focuses on key areas such as Advocacy, Leadership Development, Talent Development, and Member Engagement. These initiatives are tailored to meet community needs and tackle workforce challenges in the region.

One of the standout accomplishments was the approval and launch of Laurel College, a new healthcare education institution in York County. Currently serving 50 students, the college is poised to expand to 200 students annually, thereby ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for local medical providers.

Community Collaborations Yielding Results

In a significant collaboration, YCRC partnered with Rock Hill Schools to introduce the Franklin Covey Leader in Me program in all 26 schools within the district. This initiative is set to impact over 15,000 students and has secured a $750,000 grant, making it the first district in South Carolina to adopt this leadership development model.

Additionally, YCRC collaborated with Winthrop University to establish the region’s first-ever Honors College, emphasizing leadership development. This groundbreaking program is expected to benefit nearly 4,000 students over the next five years, providing valuable educational opportunities in the Carolinas.

Innovative Learning Programs

In an impressive display of innovation, YCRC was selected as one of only eight organizations nationwide to pilot the EPIC Work-Based Learning Program. This initiative connects college and high school students with local employers to tackle real-world challenges. The initial project was completed in partnership with Comporium Communications, highlighting the program’s hands-on approach to learning.

Building on its leadership initiatives, YCRC launched the Leadership CORE program, which offers personalized training for new and emerging managers. Due to the program’s success, YCRC plans to expand its offerings to include additional companies, with over 50 professionals expected to be trained annually.

Impacting Workforce Development

Through these combined efforts, YCRC has channeled more than $3 million into leadership and talent development programs, directly benefiting over 30,000 students and professionals in the next five years. These developments are creating a robust and skilled workforce in York County and the surrounding areas.

Recognition of Dedication and Hard Work

Upon receiving the award, Dean Faile, President and CEO of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce, expressed gratitude to the chamber’s exceptional team and volunteer leaders. “This recognition reflects our dedication to fostering a thriving, connected community where businesses can grow and succeed,” he stated. Faile emphasized that this accomplishment is a testament to the collaboration and innovation in York County, signaling a commitment to continued growth.

The York County Regional Chamber of Commerce stands proud of this achievement, which underscores the hard work and dedication invested into building a strong community and business network.