Exton, PA. The Exton Region Chamber of Commerce –ERCC– has formed a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion -DEI– Council tasked with raising awareness of DEI and its current practices, providing all businesses with the necessary resources around DEI practices, and ensuring the Chamber is representative of our diverse and multicultural region. The DEI Council’s mission is to advance the economic success of the diverse membership and community by providing relationship-building, marketing, education, advocacy, and community outreach opportunities.
The vision of the Council is to transform the diverse business community into environments where all businesses are valued for their unique identities and are confident that their contributions, perspectives, and businesses matter.
Sean Rinda, Board Chair of the ERCC expresses, “DEI is more than policy and programs, from a commerce viewpoint it is important to realize that businesses who embrace an equitable workplace typically outpace their competitors and gain greater commitment from their employees and that drives better business outcomes.”
The Council, chaired by Cassandra Dalmas, from Electrical Plus, was formed in May of this year and has been growing in support and membership. Cassandra expresses: “I noticed there was a lack of programming and representation regarding DEI, brought my concerns to the board, and was asked to take on the responsibility of launching the council. I was already chairing the marketing council at the time but felt this was more important. So, I stepped down to take on this amazing journey. I’m excited to see the council not only get some traction, but also receive support from our board, board chair, and membership.”
Current Council members include business and non-profit leaders of the Exton Region like Pachy Banks-Cabral, Chester County History Center; Michelle Berger, Chester County Food Bank; Anjali Chainani Ph.D., Anavi Strategies; Dwayne Hallager, RUBI Digital; Dr. Kelly Fisher, West Chester University; Orloff Phillips, Suisse Associates; Somaly Osteen, Asian American Chamber of Greater Philadelphia and Matt Silver, Experience Christian Church.
Laurie Ryan, President of the Chamber notes that “The ERCC prides itself on being a platform for businesses to come together for improved commerce and community. After the formation of this council, it was humbling to realize that we don’t fully represent the small business community in the region. Especially evident during the pandemic, the resources that the Chamber could provide businesses, were only accessible to those to whom we had their contact information. To build a better Exton Region, we need to be the change. I am excited to work beside the member volunteers, whose numbers grow by the month, to strive for a Chamber that represents all businesses in the region and provides resources and opportunities to all.”
In 2023, the Council is working on a robust agenda of communications, programs, and outreach to Chamber members, potential members, and the public, including a webpage with a wealth of resources for businesses. Council meetings are open to members and guests and held on the second Tuesday of the month at the ERCC offices.
######
The Exton Region Chamber of Commerce is a private, voluntary, nonprofit 501(C)(6) business organization dedicated to improving the economic environment of our community, fostering the development of business growth and prosperity through networking, connecting businesses with the resources from our County, State, and Federal partners, and providing our members with valuable programs and benefits. The mission of the Chamber is to advance the economic success of the membership and community by providing relationship-building, marketing, education, advocacy, and community outreach opportunities.
