2007 GOALS - Continued...

Workforce Services Goals: In conjunction with its affiliate, the Education Foundation, the Chamber will promote business involvement in the development and implementation of workforce readiness and workforce development programs.

Telecommunication Infrastructure Goals: In conjunction with its affiliate, FredTech, the Chamber will continue to promote the development of a vibrant technology marketplace and create opportunities for regional technology businesses. The Chamber will encourage discussions between educational institutions and regional technology companies to ensure that educational needs are met. The Chamber will continue to inventory telecommunications infrastructure and advance development and expansion, as well as serve as an information resource for regional technology issues.

FredTech Goals: FredTech will host at least three informational events this year, in addition to its annual meeting and FredTEXPO. FredTech also will develop partnerships and spur discussion between educational facilities and regional technology companies in order to improve educational opportunities in the region. Finally, FredTech also will develop a legislative platform for the 2008 General Assembly session.

Healthcare Council Goals: The Healthcare Council’s preliminary goals include helping the region lure and retain more healthcare providers. At the same time, the council will work to help the business community obtain better healthcare cost options, and explore the possibility of offering health insurance to small businesses. Finally, the council will study the problem of the availability of behavioral healthcare for area residents.

Regional Outreach Goals: The Chamber encourages regional cooperation and supports the projects of other regional organizations. In addition to hosting meetings with the localities to discuss regional issues and championing regional planning efforts, the Chamber staff will also support or serve on the board of directors or advisory group of the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance, the George Washington Planning District, Germanna Community College Center for Workforce Development, and the Potomac Gateway Alliance.

Leadership Development Goals: The Leadership Advisory Board will introduce Leadership Fredericksburg’s inaugural class in the Fall of 2007. Leadership Fredericksburg will advance the region by educating, energizing and connecting a diverse group of leaders to serve the community.