Member News ~ January 22, 2026
Japanese Taiko Drumming Sensation DRUM TAO Comes to Weis Center - January 30th
The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will welcome DRUM TAO on Friday, January 30 at 7:30 PM for an electrifying performance of their all-new show. Sponsored in part by Service 1st Federal Credit Union, the internationally acclaimed ensemble blends traditional Japanese taiko drumming with modern energy, theatrical flair, and stunning choreography for an unforgettable night of live performance. For more information about this event, contact Lisa Leighton at 570-577-3727 or by email at lisa.leighton@bucknell.edu. For more information about the Weis Center for the Performing Arts, go to Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter.
Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week seeking Volunteers
Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week provides practical, hands-on education by immersing students in the exciting world of business. This one-week summer program provides students with an appreciation of our American free enterprise system, leaving them with a newfound passion and clarity for their future. Be the reason a student discovers their potential by volunteering for PFEW 2026, and help students build skills that last a lifetime. Learn more at http://www.pfew.org
Family Innovation Night at the Berwick Area YMCA - February 6th
Families are invited to enjoy an evening of hands-on STEM experiments, creative art activities, and interactive exploration at Family Innovation Night on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 PM at the Berwick Area YMCA Gymnasium. The free event also features a photo booth and refreshments, offering a fun, curiosity-driven experience for all ages. View the flyer here.
Craft Catering Recognized with Top Wedding Industry Honors
Craft Catering has been recognized with the 2026 WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award and the Best of Zola Wedding Vendor Award, honoring excellence in service and consistently outstanding experiences for couples. These national awards reflect Craft Catering’s commitment to quality, professionalism, and memorable celebrations. Congratulations to the whole Craft Catering team!
Susquehanna Kids Releases 2026 High School Musical Guide
Get ready, Susquehanna Valley, the 2026 High School Musical Season is here! From dazzling choreography to soaring vocals and unforgettable stories, local students are bringing big‑stage magic to our small towns across the valley. Join us in celebrating their creativity and support the performances happening near you. Click here to view the calendar.
Community Giving Foundation: Berwick Welcomes New Board Members
Community Giving Foundation: Berwick has announced the addition of three new board members for 2026, welcoming Jilann Baron, Dr. Roger F. Crake, and Kelly O’Brien. The new members bring experience in engineering, healthcare, and economic development and will support the Foundation’s ongoing work to strengthen and invest in the Berwick community. Read on.
Bloomsburg Rotary's Annual Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive Happening Now - February 27th
The Bloomsburg Rotary's Annual Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive, which benefits the Bloomsburg Food Cupboard, runs from now until February 27, 2026. Drop-off sites are Diversified Technology, Framing by CJ, Bloomsburg YMCA, St. Columba Church, Key Partners Realty, The Tea Ladies, Bloomsburg Public Library, Brewskis, and the Columbia County Annex.
Service 1st Federal Credit Union Donates $270,000 to Local Charities
Service 1st Federal Credit Union donated $270,000 to more than 55 local nonprofit organizations across northeastern and central Pennsylvania through its annual Magic of the Season initiative. The year-end effort supported a wide range of community needs, including children’s programs, libraries, food assistance, and human services, marking a meaningful way for Service 1st to give back during its 50th anniversary year. To read more, click here.
The Women’s Center, Inc. to Host January Tabling Events
Throughout January, The Women’s Center, Inc. will host a series of informational tabling events in recognition of National Stalking Awareness Month and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Community members are invited to stop by to learn more, ask questions, and connect with resources at locations including Geisinger Danville Hospital, Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, the Bloomsburg Public Library, and Commonwealth University Bloomsburg on select dates throughout the month. Click here to view the schedule.
AGAPE Seeks Volunteers for Code Blue Emergency Shelter
Winter Book Sale at the Bloomsburg Public Library - January 20th-24th
PA CareerLink® Unemployment Compensation Appeals & Hearings Seminar - January 28th
PA CareerLink® Columbia/Montour Counties will host an in-person employer seminar on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 2:30-4:30 PM at its Bloomsburg location. The session will guide employers through the UC appeals process, including how to prepare for a hearing and what to expect during a mock hearing, with a focus on appeal levels, due process, and burden of proof. More information can be viewed here.
BNI Iron Valley Visitor Day - January 29th
Local business professionals are invited to attend BNI Iron Valley’s Visitor Day on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 5:30-7:30 PM at the Elmdale Inn. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet local business owners, learn how BNI supports growth through structured word-of-mouth referrals, and make meaningful connections, with a brief presentation by Natalie Fox. RSVP by January 22 and be sure to bring business cards. Click here to view the flyer.
Free Website Design Opportunity with Bucknell SBDC - January 31st
This spring, the Bucknell University Small Business Development Center is partnering with Bucknell students to help select local businesses design and build basic websites at no cost. Businesses will collaborate with student teams throughout the semester and take full ownership of a functional, easy-to-edit website by the end of April. Space is limited, apply here by January 31, 2026.
Third Annual Environmental Education Expo Returns to Montour Preserve - February 7th
The Montour Preserve will host its Third Annual Environmental Education Expo on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM, offering a free, family-friendly day of hands-on learning and discovery. The event will feature interactive exhibits, live animals, nature activities, and educational displays from a wide range of regional environmental and community organizations, making it a great opportunity for all ages to explore the natural world. More information can be found here.
Management & Leadership Program Application Deadline Approaching - February 20th
Save the Date: Focus Central PA 2026 Industrial Development Forum
Mark your calendars for the Focus Central PA Industrial Development Forum on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Nittany Lion Inn in State College, PA. This forward-thinking event brings together leaders in industrial innovation and economic growth to explore opportunities shaping Pennsylvania’s future. Learn more at FocusCentralPA.org
Are you planning an event for the United States' 250th anniversary?
The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, and the Chamber is proud to be part of the Columbia and Montour Counties America 250th planning committee. We’re calling on local organizations to share their plans for celebrations and events. If your organization is planning an activity, please contact Beth Goldman at gold1beth@gmail.com, Co-Chair of the Columbia Montour County America 250th Committee. Stay tuned for more details as our community prepares to celebrate this historic milestone!
Dave Ashby – AI Coach and Learning Strategist – New Member Highlight
Dave Ashby – AI Coach and Learning Strategist helps individuals and organizations use artificial intelligence in practical, responsible, and human-centered ways.
Rather than selling one-size-fits-all AI solutions, Dave works as a strategic thought partner by helping clients choose the right tools, learn how to prompt effectively, and think more clearly with AI to improve decision-making, productivity, and creativity. His approach focuses on clarity, real-world application, and long-term value, not hype or technical jargon.
With a background in instructional design and adult learning, Dave provides coaching, workshops, and customized AI workflows for businesses, nonprofits, educators, and individuals. He also helps organizations adopt AI safely by supporting thoughtful governance practices that balance innovation with trust, data protection, and accountability.
Looking ahead, Dave aims to help regional businesses build confidence and capability with AI so it becomes a trusted partner in growth and sustainable success.
Community Involvement Ideas for Small Businesses
Source: CO by U.S. Chamber, Nicole Fallon , Contributor
Giving back to the community is crucial to building trust and personal relationships with your customers. Here’s how to get more involved with your community.
As a small business owner, giving back to your community is a win-win situation. Not only are you supporting important local initiatives and organizations, but you’re also forging connections with your customers and showing them you care about what’s important to them.
“Consumers appreciate businesses that not only want to sell but genuinely care about the needs of the communities they’re in,” said Deiver Montes, co-founder of Avalon Sports. “There’s no better way to build rapport with your community than getting involved at a local level.”
In addition to helping your company gain more exposure and ultimately more business, donating your time, goods or financial resources to a worthy cause can also “help to improve employee morale and make improvements to the community and neighborhoods surrounding the business location,” added Helen Varvi, deputy director of Wellspring Center for Prevention.
Here are six ways to get more involved with your community and give back as a business.
Donate to local charities
Donating to a charitable cause or local nonprofit is a simple yet effective way to give your community the tools it needs to make a difference. This is a good entry point for businesses that want to give back, as it’s often as easy as clicking a button on a website or mailing a check. You might also consider donating products or offering pro bono services to community organizations for even greater brand exposure and community impact.
Serve on a board
Joining a board, such as a nonprofit board, business organization board or school board, is a great way to get involved with your local community and to help serve the community’s needs. These boards also offer an incredible opportunity to network with other local leaders and make important connections that can contribute to your business’s future growth.
Sponsor local events and sports teams
Nearly every community hosts local events and organized sports teams. Sponsoring these events or teams allows for an opportunity to be a part of your community culture, while also generating valuable engagement and positive public relations for your business.
Volunteer your time
One of the best ways to get involved in your community is by getting hands-on experience and volunteering. Pick a cause that is important to you and your team and aligns with your brand values, and plan a day to volunteer together. Aside from supporting the cause, you’ll be building team camaraderie and contributing to a positive company culture.
“When a business’s mission or founding purpose aligns with a similar or specific community organization, it is an awesome synergy,” said Melanie Fountaine, co-founder and COO of Joshin. “For instance, if a business works with families with special needs, supporting a local nonprofit for people with special needs is a win-win. It creates a relationship and feeling of connection.”
Join your local chamber of commerce
Your local chamber of commerce is a centerpiece for business in your community. Getting involved with your own allows you the opportunity to network with other small businesses in the area. It also gives you the opportunity to become among the leading experts in your industry.
Participate in online community forums
Most communities have a website or news publication where local residents and organizations can connect with each other via an online forum. Adam Eisenberg, senior editor of community engagement at hyperlocal publisher Patch, recommends this as an effective way for businesses to stay in touch with the community and its needs.
“Neighbors and local customers want to support local businesses now more than ever. Getting involved in these conversations can help forge real, lasting connections between local customers and small businesses in the community.” Whatever way you choose to give back, make sure it’s authentically aligned with your brand and its values, as well as important to your local community overall.
“Be transparent and authentic in [your] interactions with local customers,” said Eisenberg. “Customers build affinities for businesses when there's more to the experience than just a transaction, so the more ways businesses can find to engage local customers and get them involved in their efforts to give back, the more likely they are to see those efforts pay off.”
“Whatever you do, you do it from your heart, whether it’s donating your time, talent or treasure,” added Pat Mathews, co-founder of Avalon Sports. “The more genuine and authentic you are, the better it [will] be received and appreciated.”
CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.
Look For These Top Leadership Skills
Source: Chamber Today
The nature of the working environment has noticeably pivoted in the past few years.
Recently, new versions of a business leader have emerged, more aligned with what today's employees want from their employer. The "Command and Control" leader has given way to a more humble, thoughtful, and effective leader. If you want your business to remain competitive in the future, then look for these leadership traits when hiring for key positions today.
Leaders That Value Wisdom
Your leader doesn't have to be Obi-Wan Kenobi to be wise. Instead, a wise leader understands how to use their knowledge to benefit others. Wise leaders may be natural mentors; they enjoy teaching others and fostering an environment of learning and growth. They're confident in their knowledge and abilities and have a quieting effect on negativity.
Leaders With Vision
"Vision" is one of those buzzwords that's everywhere in corporate America but doesn't seem to have meaning. In a practical sense, a visionary leader has not just the goal in sight but also a practical path to get there. Vision requires clear communication, showing the team what each step towards success looks like as it relates to their jobs and tasks. It's the ability to share the bigger picture and then break it down into achievable milestones.
Innovative Leaders
Change is constant, and leaders that develop creative solutions to problems or bring a high-level idea to life can be very valuable to companies in a hyper-competitive field. Innovate leaders are the ones that ‘build a better mousetrap" and are able to execute the plans and systems needed to repeat their successes. They're creative but grounded in the practicalities of what is achievable with their team and their resources.
Discerning Leaders
Cutting through a workplace's distractions, noise, and chatter to determine priorities is critical for a good leader. Quickly being able to look at the array of your team's needs, concerns, and questions and then prioritizing them according to which will have the most impact on the team's goals is essential. A leader that lacks discernment is one that very quickly will feel like a hamster on a wheel, always going but never getting there.
Energetic Leaders Motivate Others
An energetic leader isn't like Tigger the Tiger, always bouncing around. Instead, they have the passion and drive to fulfill their goals but use restraint, focusing their energy on leading their team to achieve greater success than they dreamed. A leader with strong energy also intuitively understands how to draw on the energy of others on their team, instilling their enthusiasm into others so the entire group is able to achieve more.
Bottom Line
When hiring for a leadership position, recognize that not everyone will have these five qualities. Instead, these five qualities describe five different kinds of leaders. A savvy hiring manager will be able to recognize which of these types of leaders job candidates are, which can help them find the right kind of leader to support and achieve the different goals a company has. Understanding leadership qualities can help with team building, as different tasks require a different type of leadership.
Chamber Announces 2026 Annual Award Nominees
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the nominees for its 2026 Annual Awards recognizing outstanding businesses, nonprofit organizations, and individuals. Nominations are reviewed by the Chamber’s Annual Awards Committee using a standardized scoring rubric to help ensure a fair and thoughtful selection process. Winners are selected based on leadership, community involvement, and overall regional impact.
Large Business of the Year
Breezeline
Journey Bank
Zartman Construction
Small Business of the Year
American Paper
Sean Black State Farm Insurance
ServPRO of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties
Susquehanna Kids
Villager Realty
Nonprofit of the Year
Bloomsburg Rotary
Central Susquehanna Opportunities
Columbia Child Development Program
For the Cause Teen Center
The Women’s Center
Community Progress Award
Berwick Theater Center for the Community Arts
Borough of Berwick
Commonwealth University
Geisinger
Outstanding Citizen Award
Beth Burke, Columbia County Housing & Redevelopment Authority
Cindy Shultz, Downtown Bloomsburg, Inc.
Elizabeth Strauss, The Children’s Museum
JD Stauffer, Fusion Homes LLC
Kim Kus, Downtown Bloomsburg, Inc.
Leighton Walsh, First Keystone Community Bank
Award recipients will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting on February 25, 2026. To register, visit https://businesses.columbiamontourchamber.com/events
Member News ~ January 15, 2026
AGAPE Seeks Volunteers for Code Blue Emergency Shelter
SERVPRO Team McCabe Offering Free Continuing Education Course - January 20th
Winter Book Sale at the Bloomsburg Public Library - January 20th-24th
PA CareerLink® Unemployment Compensation Appeals & Hearings Seminar - January 28th
PA CareerLink® Columbia/Montour Counties will host an in-person employer seminar on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 2:30-4:30 PM at its Bloomsburg location. The session will guide employers through the UC appeals process, including how to prepare for a hearing and what to expect during a mock hearing, with a focus on appeal levels, due process, and burden of proof. More information can be viewed here.
Free Website Design Opportunity with Bucknell SBDC - January 31st
This spring, the Bucknell University Small Business Development Center is partnering with Bucknell students to help select local businesses design and build basic websites at no cost. Businesses will collaborate with student teams throughout the semester and take full ownership of a functional, easy-to-edit website by the end of April. Space is limited, apply here by January 31, 2026.
PPL Releases LIHEAP information
Management & Leadership Program Application Deadline Approaching - February 20th
Chamber Now Scheduling Business After Hours Events for 2026
Interested in hosting a Business After Hours? These popular networking events are a great way to showcase your business and connect with Chamber members. Complete the Business After Hours application form to share your availability and get the planning process started.
The Women’s Center, Inc. to Host January Tabling Events
Throughout January, The Women’s Center, Inc. will host a series of informational tabling events in recognition of National Stalking Awareness Month and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Community members are invited to stop by to learn more, ask questions, and connect with resources at locations including Geisinger Danville Hospital, Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, the Bloomsburg Public Library, and Commonwealth University Bloomsburg on select dates throughout the month. Click here to view the schedule.
Early Bird Deadline Approaching for DCDC Dinner and a Show - January 16th
Early bird pricing for DCDC’s Dinner and a Show featuring Dueling Pianos International is available through January 16, 2026, for the event taking place Friday, April 10, 2026, at the Pine Barn Inn in Danville. This special evening will combine live entertainment with dinner in a unique, high-energy setting. Click here to register. Click here to learn more about the event.
Commonwealth University to Host Employer Summit - January 20th
Commonwealth University’s Alumni & Professional Engagement team will host a virtual Employer Summit on January 20 from 12:00-12:45 PM to help employer partners effectively engage with students across the Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield campuses. The session will include an overview of employer engagement opportunities and a preview of Spring 2026 events designed to support internship and full-time hiring success. Advance registration is required via Zoom.
America250PA County Kick-Off Events Coming to Columbia and Montour Counties - January 21st
America250PA will host county kick-off events on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, as part of its statewide tour celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. The Columbia County event will take place from 10:00-11:30 AM at The Hub at Mulberry Mills in Bloomsburg, followed by the Montour County event from 11:15 AM-1:00 PM at the Montour County Administration Center in Danville. Both events are free to attend, include light refreshments, and highlight how local communities will take part in Pennsylvania’s Semiquincentennial celebration.
BNI Iron Valley Visitor Day - January 29th
Local business professionals are invited to attend BNI Iron Valley’s Visitor Day on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 5:30-7:30 PM at the Elmdale Inn. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet local business owners, learn how BNI supports growth through structured word-of-mouth referrals, and make meaningful connections, with a brief presentation by Natalie Fox. RSVP by January 22 and be sure to bring business cards. Click here to view the flyer.
Third Annual Environmental Education Expo Returns to Montour Preserve - February 7th
The Montour Preserve will host its Third Annual Environmental Education Expo on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM, offering a free, family-friendly day of hands-on learning and discovery. The event will feature interactive exhibits, live animals, nature activities, and educational displays from a wide range of regional environmental and community organizations, making it a great opportunity for all ages to explore the natural world. More information can be found here.
Save the Date: Focus Central PA 2026 Industrial Development Forum
Mark your calendars for the Focus Central PA Industrial Development Forum on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Nittany Lion Inn in State College, PA. This forward-thinking event brings together leaders in industrial innovation and economic growth to explore opportunities shaping Pennsylvania’s future. Learn more at FocusCentralPA.org
Are you planning an event for the United States' 250th anniversary?
The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, and the Chamber is proud to be part of the Columbia and Montour Counties America 250th planning committee. We’re calling on local organizations to share their plans for celebrations and events. If your organization is planning an activity, please contact Beth Goldman at gold1beth@gmail.com, Co-Chair of the Columbia Montour County America 250th Committee. Stay tuned for more details as our community prepares to celebrate this historic milestone!
Small Business Benefits That Deliver Big Impact
Source: My Benefit Advisor
Many small businesses assume competitive benefits are out of reach due to cost. The reality is that some of the most effective benefit programs aren’t the most expensive…they’re simply the most intentional. For employers with limited budgets, the goal shouldn’t be to match Fortune 500 benefit plays, but to focus on offerings that employees genuinely value and use.
One of the highest impact benefits is flexibility. Flexible scheduling, hybrid work options, and generous PTO policies consistently rank among the dop drivers of employee satisfaction, often at little to no direct cost. For many employees, flexibility can outweigh higher salaries elsewhere.
Another powerful option is financial wellness support. Benefits such as student loan repayment assistance, emergency savings programs, or access to financial coaching help employees manage real-life stressors. Even modest contributions or educational tools can significantly improve engagement and retention.
Mental health resources are also increasingly important. Expanding Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), offering virtual counseling, or providing mental health days sends a clear message that employee well-being matters. These programs are often affordable and widely appreciated.
Small businesses can also benefit from offering voluntary benefits, such as accident insurance, critical illness coverage, or pet insurance. While these benefits are typically employee-paid, they enhance the overall benefits package and give employees more choice without increasing employer costs.
Finally, clear communication can amplify the value of every benefit offered. Simple benefit summaries, short videos, or manager talking points help employees understand and appreciate what’s available to them.
In today’s competitive labor market, small businesses don’t need the biggest benefits budget to compete. By focusing on flexibility, well-being, financial support, and communication, employers can build benefits programs that punch well above their weight.
The Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3539.
Why So Much Local Opportunity Goes Unnoticed—and How That’s Changing
Source: Susquehanna Kids
Families don’t lack options—they lack time, clarity, and reliable local information. When families know what’s happening, where to go, and what resources are available, they participate more fully—in schools, in local businesses, and in community life. Susquehanna Kids exists to make that information easier to access and easier to share.
Across Columbia, Montour, Union, Snyder, and Northumberland counties, Susquehanna Kids has become a reliable source for families navigating daily life with children. For local businesses, schools, nonprofits, and organizations, it provides a way to share information broadly and reach families at different stages of awareness—from those actively searching to those who might not otherwise know what’s available.
Launched in 2022, Susquehanna Kids has grown into a multi-channel platform designed to meet families where they are—on the website, in their inboxes, and on their phones.
On the content side, Susquehanna Kids publishes weekly blogs that reflect what’s happening in real time across the region. These posts cover a wide range of timely topics. Recent examples include highlighting local high school musicals, sharing spring sports registration deadlines, and featuring guidance from Geisinger mental health professionals on beating the winter blues. These are just a few illustrations of how timely, relevant information is surfaced for families throughout the year.
In addition to blogs, the site features practical guides parents rely on again and again—such as roundups of indoor play places, where to host children’s birthday parties, and local farms offering hands-on activities for kids. These evergreen resources help families make decisions locally and confidently, regardless of the season.
One of the most-used tools on Susquehanna Kids is the daily-updated community calendar. In December alone, more than 700 kid-friendly events were shared, including library programs, school fundraisers, STEM workshops, holiday events, and community performances. Families use the calendar to plan their weeks and weekends, while organizations use it as a trusted place to share events with a highly local audience.
To complement the website, Susquehanna Kids sends a weekly email newsletter every Thursday highlighting upcoming weekend events worth knowing about. Families can also opt into text message updates—sent weekly or monthly—which include quick links to events organized by age group and by specific geographic area. These messages are designed to be helpful, timely, and easy to act on.
Summer planning has long been a core focus as well. Each year, Susquehanna Kids curates extensive listings of local summer camps to help families navigate options across interests, ages, and locations. In 2024, this work expanded with the launch of a dedicated website, making it easier for parents to filter and search over 250 local summer camps.
Beyond events and activities, Susquehanna Kids supports broader community priorities. The platform works closely with regional partners to share mental health resources for children and families. It also collaborates with the DegenSTEAM initiative to connect kids to STEM opportunities throughout the five counties.
Most recently, Susquehanna Kids launched the Hour of AI™ during Computer Science Education Week in December. Through hands-on, age-appropriate lessons, students learn how artificial intelligence works and how it already shows up in everyday life. More than 30 local schools and organizations are currently signed up to participate.
Susquehanna Kids continues to evolve alongside the community it serves—expanding tools, resources, and partnerships with an ongoing focus on clarity, access, and usefulness.
Businesses, nonprofits, schools, and organizations interested in sharing information or exploring ways to work with Susquehanna Kids are welcome to get in touch at colleen@susquehannakids.com.
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Susquehanna Kids is a regional family resource dedicated to connecting parents with kid-friendly events, classes, and community programs throughout the Susquehanna Valley. Curated daily by a team of local moms, the platform highlights activities across Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, and Union counties, helping families discover local opportunities in education, recreation, and the arts. Alongside its event calendar, Susquehanna Kids produces seasonal guides, community spotlights, and collaborative campaigns that celebrate the people and organizations making the Valley a great place to raise kids. Contact us: hello@susquehannakids.com.
Pennsylvania Unveils Rural Health Transformation Plan
Source: PA Chamber of Business & Industry
Late last month, Governor Shapiro announced that Pennsylvania had been awarded $193 million in federal funding for the first year of its approved five-year Rural Health Transformation Plan (RHTP), to foster innovation and improve access to essential health services in rural communities.
RHTP funding comes from the Rural Health Transformation Fund, which was established by the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act. It creates a five-year, $50 billion nationwide grant designed to support rural health. Funding was allocated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services based on rules established by Congress dictating that $100 million per year will be distributed to each approved applicant state with opportunities to receive up to an additional $100 million per year based on state characteristics including rural population, land area, amount of uncompensated care, and the grant submission itself, to be awarded at discretion of the HHS leadership.
According to a press release announcing the funding, the Commonwealth’s RHTP initiatives will focus on:
- Technology and Infrastructure, including the use of consumer-facing applications that support easy access to primary and specialty care;
- Workforce, including supporting incentives like upfront scholarships, mentoring, short-term housing, and stipends based on a five-year commitment to service in rural communities;
- Maternal Health Services to provide comprehensive care management and navigation between prenatal and postpartum care, behavioral health, and other services to support safe and healthy pregnancies and parenting;
- Behavioral Health Services, like expanding 988 services and continuing public education on crisis response services;
- Aging and Access to facilitate safe transitions from hospitalization to care at home and support quality of care in rural long-term care facilities; and
- EMS and Transportation to modernize rural EMS infrastructure to improve efficiency and sustainability.
Unspent funds from states and territories will be reallocated back into the program, so there will be opportunities to pursue additional funding based on program and initiative performance. This funding is renewable over five years, and states will have the opportunity to secure additional redistributed funding based on program performance and spending.
“Pennsylvania is home to some of our nation’s finest hospitals and health care providers — but despite that legacy of excellence in health care, residents in our rural communities often have access to fewer doctors, have to travel farther to access care, and have more limited health care options,” said Governor Shapiro. “I believe that all Pennsylvanians deserve access to quality health care no matter where they live and my Administration has spent nearly two years developing a robust and meaningful Rural Health Transformation Plan. With nearly $200 million from the federal government, we are moving forward with our plan to improve rural health care, attract and retain a skilled workforce, promote long-term, sustainable access, support the growth of innovative care, and foster technological innovation.”
For more information on the RHTP and rural health initiatives in Pennsylvania, visit dhs.pa.gov/ruralhealth.
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Founded in 1916, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association, with its membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.
Member News ~ January 8, 2026
Three Service 1st Team Members Complete Enhanced Financial Counseling Certification Program
Heather Shannon, Member Solutions Specialist, Service 1st Digital Center; Josh Culver, Financial Service Specialist I, Service 1st Bloom Road Office; and Nick Costa, Financial Service Specialist I, Service 1st Muncy Office each earned their Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation by completing the program. The FiCEP program provides credit union professionals with the skills they need to help members achieve their financial goals. Read on!
SHRMA January Chapter Meeting - January 15th
SHRMA will host its January Chapter Meeting on Thursday, January 15, featuring a Zoom webinar from 7:45-9:00 AM titled Financial Wellness in the Workplace: A Strategic Approach for Employees and Organizations. The session will be led by Karen Wood, Chief Experience Officer at Service 1st Federal Credit Union, and is free for SHRMA members. For more information, click here!
The Women’s Center, Inc. to Host January Tabling Events
Throughout January, The Women’s Center, Inc. will host a series of informational tabling events in recognition of National Stalking Awareness Month and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Community members are invited to stop by to learn more, ask questions, and connect with resources at locations including Geisinger Danville Hospital, Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, the Bloomsburg Public Library, and Commonwealth University Bloomsburg on select dates throughout the month. Click here to view the schedule.
Early Bird Deadline Approaching for DCDC Dinner and a Show - January 16th
Early bird pricing for DCDC’s Dinner and a Show featuring Dueling Pianos International is available through January 16, 2026, for the event taking place Friday, April 10, 2026, at the Pine Barn Inn in Danville. This special evening will combine live entertainment with dinner in a unique, high-energy setting. Click here to register. Click here to learn more about the event.
America250PA County Kick-Off Events Coming to Columbia and Montour Counties - January 21st
America250PA will host county kick-off events on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, as part of its statewide tour celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. The Columbia County event will take place from 10:00-11:30 AM at The Hub at Mulberry Mills in Bloomsburg, followed by the Montour County event from 11:15 AM-1:00 PM at the Montour County Administration Center in Danville. Both events are free to attend, include light refreshments, and highlight how local communities will take part in Pennsylvania’s Semiquincentennial celebration.
Barry Isett & Associates Expands Construction Quality Assurance Services to Safeguard Projects and Communities
Barry Isett & Associates has announced the expansion of its Construction Quality Assurance (CQA) services, evolving its former Construction Materials Testing department into a broader, more comprehensive offering that supports projects from design through completion. The enhanced CQA services provide independent, code-required oversight to help ensure safety, quality, and compliance across construction projects throughout Pennsylvania. Learn more.
Third Annual Environmental Education Expo Returns to Montour Preserve - February 7th
The Montour Preserve will host its Third Annual Environmental Education Expo on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM, offering a free, family-friendly day of hands-on learning and discovery. The event will feature interactive exhibits, live animals, nature activities, and educational displays from a wide range of regional environmental and community organizations, making it a great opportunity for all ages to explore the natural world. More information can be found here.
Central Columbia FFA President Awarded National FFA SAE Grant
Congratulations to Brynn Karnes, Central Columbia FFA President, on being named a recipient of the 2025 National FFA Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) Grant. This grant is awarded to FFA Members to assist in growing, improving, and expanding their SAE project.
Chamber Now Scheduling Business After Hours Events for 2026
Interested in hosting a Business After Hours? These popular networking events are a great way to showcase your business and connect with Chamber members. Complete the Business After Hours application form to share your availability and get the planning process started.
Commonwealth University to Host Employer Summit - January 20th
Commonwealth University’s Alumni & Professional Engagement team will host a virtual Employer Summit on January 20 from 12:00-12:45 PM to help employer partners effectively engage with students across the Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield campuses. The session will include an overview of employer engagement opportunities and a preview of Spring 2026 events designed to support internship and full-time hiring success. Advance registration is required via Zoom.
BNI Iron Valley Visitor Day - January 29th
Local business professionals are invited to attend BNI Iron Valley’s Visitor Day on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 5:30-7:30 PM at the Elmdale Inn. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet local business owners, learn how BNI supports growth through structured word-of-mouth referrals, and make meaningful connections, with a brief presentation by Natalie Fox. RSVP by January 22 and be sure to bring business cards. Click here to view the flyer.
Save the Date: Focus Central PA 2026 Industrial Development Forum
Mark your calendars for the Focus Central PA Industrial Development Forum on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Nittany Lion Inn in State College, PA. This forward-thinking event brings together leaders in industrial innovation and economic growth to explore opportunities shaping Pennsylvania’s future. Learn more at FocusCentralPA.org
Are you planning an event for the United States' 250th anniversary?
The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, and the Chamber is proud to be part of the Columbia and Montour Counties America 250th planning committee. We’re calling on local organizations to share their plans for celebrations and events. If your organization is planning an activity, please contact Beth Goldman at gold1beth@gmail.com, Co-Chair of the Columbia Montour County America 250th Committee. Stay tuned for more details as our community prepares to celebrate this historic milestone!