2023 Chamber Year in Review
Reflecting on 2023: Fenelon Falls & District Chamber of Commerce Achievements
As we bid farewell to 2023, it's time to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of the Fenelon Falls & District Chamber of Commerce. Through a year filled with community engagement, beautification, events, and growth, the Chamber has been at the heart of fostering a vibrant and connected Fenelon Falls. Let's take a closer look at the highlights that defined our year:
Dedicated Volunteer Leadership
With a team of 11 volunteer directors, the Chamber continued its commitment to strong and passionate leadership. The Chamber is a “working board” and rather than a “governance board” where each director played a pivotal role in executing the duties of their portofolio(s).
Record Membership Growth: 157 Members and Counting
In 2023, the Chamber reached a record number of members, boasting 157 committed businesses and orgranizations. This achievement highlighted the consistent growth in membership over the past six years, showcasing the Chamber's increasing influence and support within the community.
Country Living Show: 37 Years of Showcasing Kawartha Lakes Businesses
A longstanding tradition, the Country Living Show organized by the Chamber celebrated its 37th year. This event not only showcased the diverse businesses in Kawartha Lakes but also stood as a major revenue generator for the Chamber, supporting its ongoing initiatives.
Member Events: A Year of Connection
In 2023, the Chamber organized eight member events, from the AGM BINGO Night to a local Small Business Week panel. Each event aimed to foster connections among members and promote the growth of the local business community.
Town Crier: Spreading Community News
Throughout the year, the Town Crier newsletter kept the community informed and engaged with 52 editions. The Chamber was excited to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of this important touchpoint in 2023. Thank you to everyone who contributed photos and articles this year.
Beautifying Fenelon Falls: A Year Round Endeavour
The streets of Fenelon Falls came alive in summer and winter because of the Chamber’s annual beautification efforts in partnership with downtown business owners. Summer flower baskets, colourful flags, winter greenery baskets and lighted holiday decor contributed to the town's welcoming atmosphere and created two part-time jobs.
Community Events: Promoting Local Business
Easter Eggstravaganza, Moonlight Madness and Passport to Christmas are Chamber led events created to showcase the unique variety of shopping and dining experiences offered by our business owners. In addition to these annual favourites we added the Winter Warmup dining event and the outdoor movie on the TSW Island. Off season events are key to maintaining viable businesses year round and so we thank all the partners and sponsors who helped us make these events a success.
Building Partnerships is Essential
Chamber Directors and staff participate in a number of local and regional committees. Building relationships is key to understanding and supporting the work being done by other groups, staying informed and sharing resources to sustain our fiscal responsibility.
Welcoming the World to Fenelon Falls: The Tourism Ambassador Program
The Chamber Office is also home to the Tourism Info Centre and is open yearround to welcome visitors from across the globe. During the high tourism season the Chamber launched the 6th annual Tourism Ambassador Program. Enthusiastic students promoted Fenelon Falls in person and online through almost 200 social posts and videos.
As we reflect on the accomplishments of 2023, it's clear that the chamber has played a pivotal role in fostering a connected, thriving, and resilient community. 2024 will bring new opportunities and challenges so if you’d like to make a difference please consider joining in on the work of the Fenelon Falls & District Chamber of Commerce.
