Gilbert Chamber Foundation recognized for civic efforts
Posted 10/7/24
The Gilbert Chamber Foundation has been selected as a finalist for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's 2024 Citizens Award in the "Best Civic Engagement Program" category.
The recognition …
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The Gilbert Chamber Foundation has been selected as a finalist for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's 2024 Citizens Award in the "Best Civic Engagement Program" category.
The recognition highlights the foundation's commitment to fostering civic engagement and enhancing the health and well-being of the community through innovative programs.
The Gilbert Chamber Foundation has a goal to reignite civic learning and empower community members to take active roles in civic life.
In a release, the foundation detailed four ways it is making an impact in that area.
Quarterly Civic Events
The foundation's free, themed civic events are designed to unite the community, creating a space for open dialogue, shared perspectives, and meaningful connections.
These events cover topics such as voting, civic responsibility, and civil rights, offering an inclusive environment for the community to explore and engage with these issues.
Through art, music, food, and impactful civic messages, participants can leave feeling informed and empowered to take action in their communities. This year's series is sponsored by Pettitt Wealth.
National Civics Bee
As part of its ongoing efforts to educate and inspire the next generation of citizens, the foundation hosts the National Civics Bee for middle school students, allowing them to demonstrate their civic knowledge and passion.
The bee encourages critical thinking and engagement with real-world issues, fostering a deeper understanding of civics at a young age.
In partnership with other chambers, this initiative has sparked excitement in civic matters among students, leading to heightened participation in the community. This year's series is sponsored by APS and the Town of Gilbert.
Interview Skills Clinic
To further support students participating in the National Civics Bee, the foundation introduced an interview skills clinic, where finalists work with local educators and business owners to refine their communication and presentation skills.
The clinic not only prepares them for competition but also equips them with valuable life skills.
The success of the clinic is evident, according to the foundation, with several of the students achieving top placements at the state level.This year's Interview Skills Clinic and Interview Skills Challenge series is sponsored by 910 West and San Tan Ford.
Collaborative Civic Initiatives
The Gilbert Chamber Foundation fosters relationships between businesses, residents, and civic leaders.
Through advocacy, resources and collaboration, the foundation works to promote economic development while strengthening social bonds.
Its partnerships with organizations like Citizen University and the Arizona Center for Civic Leadership inform and elevate the foundation's approach, ensuring it delivers impactful civic programming, according to the foundation.
Since the launch of the foundation's civic engagement programs, more than 500 people have experienced increased awareness of civic issues, according to the foundation.
Its efforts have led to increased participation in its advocacy initiatives, which are crucial with an upcoming contentious election cycle.
The foundation says it is committed to expanding its programs, including opening its interview skills clinic to all state finalists and continuing its quarterly civic events to create lasting, positive change in the community.
