New Member Highlight- Derr Insurance Group LLC
Derr Insurance Group was founded on the belief that understanding your insurance options shouldn’t be a challenge. By offering expert guidance and clear information, Beth Derr and her team empower clients to make educated decisions about their coverage. Whether you're exploring Medicare plans, considering an IRA rollover, or securing life insurance for your family's future, Derr Insurance Group takes the time to explain your options and help you find the most affordable and effective solutions. Their mission is simple: to provide exceptional service and expert advice while ensuring each client feels comfortable and confident in their insurance decisions. To learn more about Derr Insurance Group, call 570-854-7658 or email, ederr@derrinsurancegroup.com
Understanding the Workforce Shift
With Millennials and Gen Z now comprising most of the workforce, businesses must rethink their approach to employee benefits. These generations prioritize flexibility, mental health, financial wellness, and purpose-driven work environments over traditional perks. In a competitive job market, offering the right benefits package can significantly impact talent attraction, retention, and engagement.
Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, prioritize work-life balance, career growth, and financial stability. Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, values flexibility, mental health support and diversity in the workplace. While each generation has distinct preferences, both groups share an expectation that workplaces will offer benefits that support not just their professional development but also their personal well-being.
Work-life balance is particularly important to these employees. Millennials appreciate flexible work schedules and remote work options, while Gen Z pushes for even greater workplace fluidity, preferring hybrid setups or fewer traditional work hours. Career development is another significant factor. Millennials look for tuition reimbursement and mentorship programs, while Gen z prefers digital learning opportunities, upskilling, and the ability to advance quickly through job-hopping. Financial wellness plays a crucial role in their decision-making, with Millennials drawn to student loan assistance and 401(k) matching, whereas Gen Z favors instant payroll access and budgeting tools. Health and well-being are also essential, as both groups demand comprehensive wellness programs, including therapy coverage and stress management apps.
To attract and retain these employees, organizations must rethink their benefits models and provide options that are personalized, flexible, and inclusive.
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) 377-3536.
5 Customer-Focused Strategies to Build Loyalty and Drive Growth
Customers expect businesses to prioritize their needs, and those that do see stronger loyalty and growth. A customer-first mindset doesn’t require big budgets—just smart, intentional strategies. Here’s how:
- Personalize Every Interaction – Use simple tools to track preferences and offer relevant experiences.
- Deliver Seamless, Empathetic Service – Make customer support easy, responsive, and thoughtful.
- Engage Proactively – Anticipate needs and check in before issues arise.
- Build Community & Relationships – Go beyond transactions by supporting local causes and fostering connections.
- Listen, Adapt & Improve – Gather feedback and refine offerings, just like top brands do.
Small steps make a big impact. Prioritizing customer experience helps businesses of any size outperform competitors. Ready to strengthen loyalty? Let’s dive in.
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Customer expectations have evolved. In today’s competitive landscape, businesses that prioritize customer needs see higher retention, stronger brand advocacy, and increased revenue. A study by PwC found that 73% of consumers consider customer experience a key factor in their purchasing decisions—yet, only 49% say companies provide a good experience. The gap between expectations and reality presents a major opportunity for businesses willing to go the extra mile.
Here are five strategies to build long-term customer relationships and drive loyalty:
1. Personalize Every Interaction
Personalization might seem overwhelming for small businesses, especially when looking at how giants like Amazon and Netflix use AI-driven recommendations and automation. However, the core principle remains the same: customers respond to businesses that understand their needs. Even without a massive tech budget, small businesses can apply these strategies in practical ways. Start by using a simple CRM to track customer preferences, segmenting email lists for more relevant messaging, or offering personalized discounts based on past purchases. Over time, these small steps can build stronger customer relationships and drive engagement—proving that personalization isn’t just for big brands, but for businesses of all sizes.
2. Deliver Seamless and Empathetic Service
Small businesses might not have the resources of Apple or Zappos, but that doesn’t mean they can’t deliver outstanding customer service. The key isn’t having a massive support team—it’s about making every interaction smooth, responsive, and thoughtful. Start by offering at least one or two reliable ways for customers to reach you, whether that’s email, social media, or a simple chat feature on your website. Focus on quick, clear communication and empower employees (or yourself) to handle issues with empathy. Even small improvements, like a faster response time or a more personal touch, can make a big difference in customer loyalty—proving that outstanding service isn’t just for big brands, but for businesses of any size.
3. Engage Customers Proactively
The best customer service isn’t reactive—it’s proactive. Businesses that anticipate needs and engage customers before they reach out gain trust and loyalty.
- Send reminders for upcoming service needs or expiring subscriptions.
- Offer educational content, like tutorials or insider tips.
- Check in post-purchase to ensure satisfaction.
For example, Spotify’s curated playlists based on listening habits create a sense of thoughtfulness that keeps users engaged.
4. Build Relationships Beyond Transactions
Creating a community around your business fosters long-term loyalty.
- Develop exclusive memberships or loyalty programs.
- Engage on social media with authentic, two-way conversations.
- Align with customer values — support community causes or partner with other businesses to demonstrate connectedness to the goal of a thriving local economy.
For example, a local bakery could build loyalty by partnering with a nearby school for a fundraiser, donating a portion of sales to support classroom supplies. Similarly, a boutique could team up with a nonprofit, hosting a special shopping event where proceeds go toward housing for refugees—showing customers their purchases make a real impact in the community.
5. Listen, Adapt, and Improve
Customer needs evolve, and businesses must continuously refine their strategies. The most successful brands actively listen and implement feedback. Here are a few ways to do so.
- Conduct surveys and NPS (Net Promoter Score) assessments.
- Analyze customer support trends to identify pain points.
- Show customers that their feedback drives meaningful changes.
Big brands like Netflix regularly tweak its recommendation algorithms based on user interactions, ensuring an ever-improving experience. Small businesses can take a similar approach by tracking customer preferences—whether through purchase history, survey feedback, or social media engagement—and using that insight to tailor offerings, suggest relevant products, or refine their services to better meet customer needs.
Final Thoughts
A customer-first mindset isn’t just about satisfaction—it’s about long-term success. Businesses that invest in personalized marketing, seamless service, proactive engagement, strong relationships, and continuous adaptation will stand out in an increasingly crowded market.
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The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike.
President’s Message: Happy Philanthropy Day!
Longtime Chamber member and Chair of the Community Giving Foundation Board, Harry Mathias has a friendly bone to pick with Waze, the GPS navigation system that regularly brings commuters to their desired destinations. (Truth be told, after hearing Harry speak about it at this morning’s Community Giving Foundation Annual Meeting, I do too.)
Have you ever been on a trip and had your GPS announce, “You have arrived at your destination,” only to have it glitch out when you circle the block trying to find a parking spot? When that happens to me, I just want to say, “Be quiet, GPS, I’m not done yet!” In a far more eloquent version of this metaphor, Harry laid out the case for the recent success and the inspired future of the Community Giving Foundation. Drawing attention to the compelling story told by CGF’s Dashboard, Harry boasted about our amazing neighbors and what they’ve accomplished this year. By “neighbors”, I mean the philanthropy-minded people who are all around us and lift us up through their generosity.
These neighbors of ours, through Community Giving Foundation alone, generated a record-breaking $6,417,464.00 in charitable gifts through 1,369 unique donors in 2024. These unsung heroes equipped the organization in awarding $3 million through 722 grants and 310 scholarships. In short, the region’s proud tradition of impactful charity was on full display. The numbers speak to Harry’s point - the organization isn’t “circling the block”, or even tapping the brakes. No, Community Giving Foundation, through new initiatives, programs, grants and scholarships, continues their journey to leave our region a better place. They’re a testament to what makes this such a wonderful place.
But that’s not all. If ever there was a case to be made for a regional holiday to celebrate philanthropy, many in the non-profit sector would join me in dubbing today, March 12, 2025, “Philanthropy Day in the Columbia-Montour Region.” That’s because this morning’s event was just a part of the picture of ongoing charitable impact. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that in addition to the fine work of Community Giving Foundation, the First Community Foundation Partnership (CGF’s neighbor in Williamsport) and their annual “Raise the Region” campaign, a seven-county, 30-hour online giving event, begins tonight at 6pm. Many of our area’s nonprofits engage in the program, and I’d encourage you to consider visiting the site in support of these amazing nonprofits.
I’m encouraged and humbled to be part of a community that supports one another, especially as I realize that my children will benefit from the contributions of countless others. No doubt if you’re reading this, you’ve supported our community generously yourself. Thank you – but our work isn’t done.
Now more than ever, nonprofits need our help. At the conclusion of today’s meeting, the call to giving was not the most pressing call in the room. Rather, there was universal acknowledgement of one of our greatest opportunities – the need to develop volunteers who will give time, talent and treasure. The Chamber is committed to help on this front, through the work of our own Chamber Foundation and our flagship program, Leadership Central Penn, but most of all, we want to help you make the connections that leave a lasting impact on your hearts and minds. Help us connect you to the places you want to support.
If you’d like to support the Chamber’s nonprofits directly, I’d encourage you to take a look at the Chamber Directory, which is full of great organizations who serve the community. To make a connection through our staff, all you’ve got to do is call or email.
To give through the Community Giving Foundation, visit their site, and to give through Raise the Region, visit www.raisetheregion.org.
Happy Philanthropy Day to all!
Member News ~ March 6, 2025
Attention Central PA Manufacturers!
Your insights are crucial! IMC is surveying Manufacturers to understand how the proposed tariffs will impact your business in Central PA. Take the survey here.
Bloomsburg's First Friday Happening March 7th
Get the latest activities, food and fun happening at First Friday.
RAISE THE REGION happening March 12th - 13th.
Pennsylvania College of Technology has Chamber Foundation Board Member on "Tomorrow Makers" Podcast
Pennsylvania College of Technology hosted Sean Stabler Vice President of Operations and Innovation at SEKISUI KYDEX and Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation Board member, on their "Tomorrow Makers" podcast. Check out the episode here.
Hamilton Dental Care Welcomes Dr. Dany Ajlani
Dr. Dany earned his dental degree from Temple University with Summa Cum Lauda Honors. He continued his post-graduate training by completing a General Practice Residency at St. Luke’s Hospital in Bethlehem, PA where he advanced his training in all aspects of dentistry. Welcome Dr. Dany Ajlani!
Bloomsburg Public Library Announces Programing
Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak Welcomes Attorney Alexandra Garver & Attorney Skylah Cunningham
Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak, an elder law firm with seven locations across northeastern and central Pennsylvania, is pleased to announce the addition Attorney Alexandra Garver and Attorney Skylah Cunningham to the firm as associate attorneys. Learn more.
Community Giving Foundation: Danville Announces "Neighbor of the Year"
Community Giving Foundation: Danville will honor two recipients with the 2025 “Neighbor of the Year” award in honor of Robert N. Pursel on Saturday, May 3rd, during the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event. Learn who the recipients are.
LCBC Hosting Annual Global Leadership Summit
LCBC will be one of several national locations hosting the Global Leadership Summit on August 7 -8. Learn more about speakers and how to register.
Shows at The Weis Center
- Ukrainian world music ensemble DakhaBrakha on Thursday, March 20 at 7:30 p.m
- Classical ballet ensemble Houston Ballet II on Friday, March 28 at 7:30 p.m
PATHS will offer over 50 Programs in March
PATHS will offer over 50 trainings in March to educate you on ladder safety, poison prevention, and active shooter. Visit their website, Health & Safety Division | Department of Labor and Industry | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, for other safety-related resources and to register for a training!
Together for Health and Wellness Offers Direct Primary Care for Businesses
Together for Health and Wellness is offering Direct Primary Care for businesses. What does that mean for your business? Contact Ashley Yeager at ashley@together4healthwellness.com to find out.
Bloomsburg Children's Museum Announces March Programs
The Bloomsburg Children Museum , 2 West 7th Street, is pleased to announce its programs for March 2025.
Camp Victory Bingo Event
Camp Victory is hosting a Bingo Fundraiser on March 22nd. Click here for more information.
Did You Miss Last Week's Member News? Here's News That's Still Timely
Neighborhood Assistance Program to be held on March 19th
Join John Coates, Owner of Forest and Field, along with representatives from GMS Funding Solutions, Match Nonprofit Consulting, and the Bloomsburg Area YMCA to learn more about the Bloomsburg Area YMCA's exciting expansion and renovation project, and how your support can benefit your business through the Neighborhood Assistance Program on March 19th from 5:30-7:00 PM. Check out the informational flyer. and RSVP here.
Community Giving Foundation- YIP GRANTS OPEN NOW
Read About the Youth in Philanthropy Grant Round Here. and Apply for the Grants Here
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is now accepting appointments!
Our VITA Program is now accepting appointments. Please let your clients know they can get their state, federal, and local taxes done for FREE. You can book appointments from now through April 5th. You can book your appointment online at https://svuw.org/vita or call (570) 416-2704 and leave a voicemail, and a VITA volunteer will return your call as soon as possible.
Ronald McDonald House of Danville hosting Garden Party
Join the Ronald McDonald House of Danville for a captivating evening at the second annual Garden Party at Dark. Learn more here.
LCP Alumni Event
Are you a graduate of Leadership Central Penn? Meet the 2025 and connect with your classmates at an alumni event happening March 20th. Click here to register!
Sign up for Day Of Action 2025
Susquehanna Valley United will be holding its 2025 Day of Action on April 25. Volunteers can sign up through March 6th. Sign up today!
DCDC Dueling Pianos Back April 4th
Danville Child Development Center's Annual Dueling Pianos Event is happening April 4th. Learn more..
Bloomsburg ArtFest Announced, Applications Live
The seventeenth ArtFest will occur on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. ArtFest showcases regional artists' original work, accompanied by local food, live music, and activities. More details here. Read the call for entries.
President’s Message: Empowering Your Community Through PA Tax Credit Programs
At the Chamber, we take pride in helping members find great resources. We love it even more, though, when we can connect members to resources that help them grow their business AND help the community. Today, I'm pleased to remind you about two powerful financial resources available to Pennsylvania businesses: the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) and the Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program. If you're unfamiliar, these programs offer businesses an opportunity to reduce tax liability while contributing to economic development, workforce readiness, and education.
The timing of this message is significant - in the coming weeks, the Bloomsburg Area YMCA and our friend John Coates at Forest and Field will host Paul Macknosky, Regional Director of the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, for an evening seminar about NAP. The event will include a program and light refreshments (learn more here). To be frank, we think the information Mr. Macknosky will provide is so important that we don't want to compete for your time - and we won't be scheduling a Business After Hours for that evening. Better yet, Mr. Macknosky is also the region's top expert on EITC, making his appearance a perfect time for you to consider how your goals may align with these programs.
Let's dive in with a quick overview.
The Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP)
The NAP is designed to encourage businesses to support specific projects to bring about community revitalization and can impact initiatives such as affordable housing, job training, crime prevention, and neighborhood revitalization. By contributing to nonprofit organizations engaged in community development through NAP, businesses can receive tax credits ranging from 55% to 80% of their contribution amount, depending on the project’s scope and impact. These funds must be identified early on in partnership with the applying nonprofit. As such, nonprofits have taken an active role in sharing details about their future projects up front.
The Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program
The EITC program provides tax credits to businesses that contribute to eligible educational organizations (Education Improvement Organizations), scholarship organizations, and pre-Kindergarten programs. Companies can receive tax credits covering up to 90% of their donation when committing to multiple years of contributions. The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce and several other community organizations are approved to offer scholarships and/or programs that support students outside the typical classroom experience and appear on a list of approved organizations.
Examples of meaningful and approved programs include the Chamber Foundation's partnerships for "What's So Cool About Manufacturing?", "Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week". the "S.E.A.L. Challenge (STEM Contest)", and Brighter Financial Futures Financial Literacy programs for meaningful offerings. Tax credits can go a long way. The Chamber Foundation has also been a source for improvements inside the local school districts, working with EITC donors to fund equipment purchases for local school theater programs and departments through the "Tech Theater" program (to the tune of more than $1 million) and in support of CTE learning objectives through programs like the BSA's Learning for Life Career Exploring program.
Through EITC and especially the Chamber Foundation, businesses can directly support workforce development by funding programs that equip students with essential skills for future careers. By strengthening education, businesses help cultivate a highly skilled workforce, ensuring a pipeline of prepared employees for years to come. We've created a quick and easy EITC Fact Sheet and a program guide that might help you get a better idea of the possible impact of the tax credit program.
Why Business Owners Should Take Advantage
These tax credit programs allow businesses to maximize their financial resources, enhance their corporate social responsibility, and contribute to strengthening our local economy. Businesses that participate in community and educational support efforts often see increased goodwill, stronger customer relationships, and a more engaged workforce. The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is here to guide you in navigating these programs and leveraging them for both your benefit and the benefit of our community, and now is the best time to learn more. Contact us today for more guidance about how your business can participate and drive positive change for our region’s future.
Columbia Montour Chamber Supports Permanent Extension of 2017 Tax Cuts
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is joining business organizations across the country in advocating for the permanent extension of key provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). The Chamber, aligning with nearly 500 business groups led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the PA Chamber, is urging Congress to act before these tax cuts expire this year through a sign on letter sent on February 26th.
These tax provisions have played a crucial role in fostering economic growth, increasing wages, and creating jobs for businesses and workers alike. The coalition recently sent a letter to lawmakers, emphasizing the need to adopt a current-policy baseline during budget reconciliation talks. This approach would ensure businesses have the certainty needed to make long-term investments, which are essential for continued economic expansion.
Failure to extend the TCJA provisions could result in a $4 trillion tax increase for American businesses and families. The letter to Congress highlights that maintaining these tax cuts would not increase the deficit relative to current policy and would provide meaningful relief to employers and workers.
In related developments, the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a budget resolution that includes a framework for $4.5 trillion in net tax cuts, alongside $2 trillion in additional spending cuts. However, concerns remain among Senate Republicans regarding the permanence of these tax measures in the House bill.
The PA Chamber has been actively engaging with lawmakers, including participating in a small business roundtable in Gettysburg with Congressman John Joyce (PA-13). During this event, Pennsylvania business owners voiced their support for extending the TCJA tax cuts and shared firsthand accounts of how the provisions have benefited their businesses.
The Columbia Montour Chamber will continue working alongside the PA Chamber and U.S. Chamber to advocate for policies that support local businesses and economic prosperity.
For more updates on this critical issue, stay connected with the Chamber’s advocacy efforts by reaching out to Chris Berleth, Chamber President and CEO. And to learn more about the State of American Business in 2025 from the U.S. Chamber.
How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation
- Small businesses are driving innovation—embracing trends that fuel growth and resilience.
- Sustainability is a competitive edge, as eco-conscious consumers demand greener products and practices.
- E-commerce continues to grow, with social commerce and omnichannel strategies reshaping the landscape.
- AI adoption is accelerating, streamlining operations, improving customer engagement, and enhancing decision-making.
- Community-focused strategies build trust—hyperlocal marketing and partnerships strengthen customer loyalty.
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Small businesses have always been the heart of innovation, adapting quickly to change and shaping industries in unexpected ways. Now, a new wave of transformation is taking place—one driven by sustainability, evolving e-commerce strategies, artificial intelligence, and deeper community engagement. The businesses that embrace these trends won’t just survive; they’ll thrive.
Sustainability: More Than a Trend, a Competitive Edge
For years, large corporations have led the sustainability conversation, but today, small businesses are proving they can drive change just as effectively. Consumers increasingly seek out brands that align with their values, and sustainability is at the top of their priorities. According to a NielsenIQ study, 78% of consumers say a sustainable lifestyle is important to them.
For small businesses, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Those that commit to sustainable practices—whether by adopting eco-friendly packaging, reducing waste, or sourcing from ethical suppliers—are building long-term trust with their customers. More importantly, sustainability is no longer just a feel-good initiative; it’s a business advantage. Customers are willing to pay more for products they believe are making a difference, and small businesses that embrace this movement will attract and retain loyal buyers.
E-Commerce’s Continued Evolution
Online shopping has been growing for years, but in 2025, the landscape is shifting once again. It’s no longer just about having a website; it’s about being where the customers are—on social platforms, mobile devices, and in seamless digital experiences that connect online and offline shopping.
Social commerce, in particular, is becoming a dominant force. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest aren’t just for marketing anymore—they’re full-fledged shopping destinations. Consumers are making purchasing decisions in real-time, influenced by creators, peer reviews, and interactive content. According to Statista, global e-commerce sales are expected to reach $7.4 trillion in 2025, and small businesses that invest in social selling, mobile-friendly platforms, and omnichannel experiences will be the ones who capture that growth.
For small business owners, this means rethinking their approach. A well-optimized website is still essential, but so is an active presence on social media, easy checkout experiences, and strategies that connect digital and physical storefronts. The businesses that get this right will stay ahead of the curve.
AI for Any Business
For many small business owners, artificial intelligence once seemed like a tool reserved for tech giants. But now, AI is more accessible than ever, offering cost-effective solutions to streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and make smarter business decisions.
AI-powered chatbots are handling customer inquiries 24/7. Automated marketing tools are crafting personalized email campaigns with just a few clicks. Even customer service and inventory management are being optimized with AI-driven insights. The businesses that embrace these tools aren’t just saving time; they’re improving customer experiences and freeing up resources to focus on growth.
Platforms like Shopify Magic, ChatGPT, and HubSpot’s AI-powered CRM are making it easier for small businesses to integrate AI without needing a dedicated IT team. The key is to start small—automating one or two repetitive tasks—and gradually expanding AI’s role in the business. Those who do will be more agile, more efficient, and better equipped for long-term success.
Community Engagement: The Power of Local Connections
In a digital world, small businesses have a powerful advantage that big corporations often struggle with: the ability to build deep, meaningful relationships within their communities. More than ever, consumers want to support businesses that align with their values and contribute to something bigger than just profits.
Small businesses that invest in their local communities—by supporting local causes, partnering with nearby businesses, and engaging in hyperlocal marketing—are earning lasting customer loyalty. A Harvard Business Review study found that 64% of consumers prefer to buy from brands that share their values. When a business is seen as a key part of the community, customers become advocates, spreading word-of-mouth recommendations that no marketing budget can buy.
The Future Belongs to Those Who Innovate
The small businesses that will thrive in 2025 are the ones that recognize these shifts and take action. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a business advantage. E-commerce is no longer just a website—it’s a dynamic, social, and omnichannel experience. AI isn’t out of reach—it’s an essential tool for efficiency. And community engagement isn’t just goodwill—it’s a strategic move for brand loyalty.
The question isn’t whether these changes are happening—the question is whether small business owners are ready to embrace them. The future of business is here, and it belongs to those willing to innovate.
Further Reading:
The Future of Small Business in a Digital World – Forbes
Why Sustainability Matters for Business Growth – Harvard Business Review
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The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike.
New Member Highlight-MAE DAE
In the fast-paced world of business, having the right guidance can make all the difference. That’s where Michelle Mae Mentoring comes in. With a mission to empower, Michelle provides expert coaching that helps business owners gain clarity, confidence, and momentum. She provides a holistic approach to business development using Quantum Biofeedback as a tool to develop actionable steps to move forward. To learn more about Michelle Mae Mentoring click here.
Organizations and Individuals Recognized at Annual Awards Ceremony
Member businesses and individuals of The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce were recognized during the organization’s Annual Awards Ceremony, sponsored by PPL Electric Utilities, on Wednesday, February 27, 2025, at the Frosty Valley Resort in Danville.
Approximately 250 guests attended the evening event, which celebrated outstanding member achievements, elected members to the Board of Directors, highlighted Chamber activities of the past year, and previewed the year ahead.
The Chamber’s five annual awards were presented to organizations and individuals for their extraordinary contributions to the community. The following awards were presented:
Small Business of the Year - Sponsored by Journey Bank
Awardee: Troop 47 Trading Company
Large Business of the Year - Sponsored by Post Consumer Brands
Awardee: First Keystone Community Bank
Nonprofit of the Year - Sponsored by PNC
Awardee: The Good Samaritan Mission
Community Progress Award- Sponsored by Press Enterprise Commercial Printing
Awardee: Outta Boundz
Outstanding Citizen - Sponsored by Berwick Industrial Development Association
Awardee: Rich Kisner
The Small Business of the Year award is presented to a member business of thirty employees or fewer that has: demonstrated business or community leadership evidenced by diversification and creativity in the development of new products, services, and/or markets; demonstrated staying power and positive response to adversity; and/or demonstrated community involvement.
Scott and Annie McCarty accept the Small Business of the Year Award from Journey Bank Danville Branch Manager Kara Aurand on Thursday February 27th.
Troop 47 Trading Company- Trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, cheerful, and kind. If these values sound familiar to you it’s likely that you heard them from the mouths of local Scouts. So did Annie McCarty, who, along with her husband Scott, named the Danville-based shop in honor of her father’s connections, values, and legacy in Scouting and the Danville community. Nominated for a second consecutive year, Troop 47 Trading Co., is a rally point for events in Downtown Danville, as shown by her recent Galentine’s Day event, which collected shampoo for fellow award nominee The Good Samaritan Mission. It’s a rally point for good reason - Annie knows and loves her community as much as she knows her store and her customers, having hand-picked or handcrafted every item on the shelf.
The Large Business of the Year award: This award recognizes companies with more than 31 employees that exemplify strong leadership, resilience, community involvement, and long-term success
Employees of First Keystone Community Bank accepting the Large Business of the year award at the 2025 Annual Awards Ceremony.
First Keystone Community Bank For more than 160 years, First Keystone Community Bank (FKCB) has been a pillar of strength and financial expertise in Pennsylvania with a network of branches spanning Columbia, Luzerne, Montour, and Schuylkill counties. More than just a bank, First Keystone is a true advocate for the communities it serves. Through sponsorships, charitable contributions, and active employee volunteerism, they continually support local non-profits, schools, and businesses. First Keystone Community Bank exemplifies what it means to be a true community partner—empowering individuals, strengthening businesses, and uplifting the communities it calls home.
The Nonprofit of the Year award is presented to a 501(c)(3) organization with one hundred or fewer employees that has provided diversified and creative aid to the Columbia-Montour region utilizing business, personal, and community resources.
Terry Brown, board member, Nicky Outt board chair, Carin Warton, Executive Director and Lisa McCarty, office assistant from Good Samaritan Mission accept the Nonprofit of the Year award at the Annual Awards Ceremony.
The Good Samaritan Mission For nearly three decades, The Good Samaritan Mission has been a beacon of hope for individuals and families facing hardship in Danville, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. They have a strong support system—including 75 dedicated volunteers, two staff members, and the Young Samaritans middle and high school volunteer club—the organization delivers critical services to the community. The Good Samaritan Mission provides crisis financial assistance, hygiene products, clothing, and adult education workshops that address poverty. Additionally, the mission supports students in the Danville Area School District by packing 150 food bags each week for students who face food insecurity on weekends and extended breaks from school as well as providing new beds for children without adequate sleeping arrangements. In addition, the mission also supports students in the Danville Area School District and Columbia Montour Vo-Tech with tuition/educational assistance. Through these efforts and a committed network of community partners, The Good Samaritan Mission continues to make a lasting impact in Central Pennsylvania.
The Community Progress Award goes to a member business or organization that showed improvement in the internal or external appearance of a commercial property through either new construction, renovation, restoration, or remodeling, and completed that construction within the last three calendar years or by December 2023.
Outta Boundz for their facility Renovation- Outta Boundz has redefined family entertainment with its thrilling mix of upscale, gamified activities, state-of-the-art facilities, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a night of bowling, arcade excitement, laser tag, or hatchet throwing, Outta Boundz offers a one-stop destination for unforgettable experiences. Dhalas Robbins and his family transformed the former Skatetown Hysteria space into a modern entertainment hub, bringing upscale, gamified bowling, two-story laser tag, hatchet throwing, duckpin bowling, a full bar, and an expanded arcade to the Bloomsburg area. They also enhanced their party and event hosting services and improved the exterior appearance of their 20-year-old roller rink, making it a fresh and exciting destination for guests of all ages.
The Outstanding Citizen award is presented to an individual that is an employee or volunteer of a member organization who is involved in civic activities beneficial to the Columbia-Montour region and who projects a positive community image.
Rick Kisner - Executive Director of Community Strategies Group (CSG) in Bloomsburg, PA, is a driving force behind innovative community development and housing initiatives in the region. With a passion for creating sustainable, inclusive communities, Rich has dedicated his career to addressing critical housing, economic development, and social equity challenges. Under his leadership, CSG has expanded its reach and impact, helping individuals and families access affordable housing and resources that foster long-term stability. His work ensures that Bloomsburg remains a place where families and individuals can thrive. Rich also serves on many boards and community organizations that contribute to the overall health and wellness of our community.
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that represents more than 400 businesses and organizations from the Columbia-Montour region.
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