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To say that 2020 has been “challenging” for businesses of all sizes in our area could be considered an enormous understatement. The ongoing influences and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are proving to be long-lasting and widespread throughout our region. The limitations, restrictionsand unprecedented scenarios businesses are facing spreads further into our communities, affecting employees, their families and really, all aspects of our lives. With these concerns in mind and in keeping with the focus of serving our community, the Greater Forest City Business Alliance (GFCBA) Board of Directors has unanimously voted to offer their 2021 membership free to all local businesses. During COVID-19, the GFCBA has been making a concerted effort to promoting positivity and success throughout our community. Despite the challenges presented in 2020, it is our hope that we can continue to evolve and grow in 2021, recognize and support the needs of our membership, and solidify our role as a desirable and valuable community asset. For those unfamiliar with the GFCBA, some of our projects have included updating and reprinting our local brochure, which includes a business directory, maps and summary of local events in our NEPA region and a complete overhaul of our website which is organized and utilized to promote local business, general area information and events. The Halloween Trunk or Treat Event, Holiday Trail Town Festival and more recently the “Drawn Together” nights are just a few of the community events organized by the GFCBA. And finally, we continue to develop and expand partnerships with organizations including but not limited to local chambers in our region, the Rail Trail Council of Northeastern Pennsylvania, the University of Scranton Small Business Development Center, Greater Forest City Industries, the Susquehanna-Bradford County Progress Authority, Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau and the Borough of Forest City. Acquiring grants that can be used toward community growth, support and town beautification is a major focus of the GFCBA. Our town – with all that it has to offer – natures beauty, diverse seasonal recreation, and a wonderful community – has been designated as the “First Trail Town on the D&H Rail Trail. We were recently awarded grant funding through the EMVB to install a new directional sign on the Erie Street Trailhead, encouraging trail users to explore main street businesses. Our latest funding is a Peer Grant from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Pennsylvania Environmental Council providing the borough with a Peer Consultant to guide us through the steps of becoming a successful “Outdoor Town”. We invite ALL businesses to join us and accept our gift of a one-year membership. No business is too large…or too small. For those businesses who have remained stable or grown and would like to voluntarily contribute, we appreciate the gesture, but do not expect it and your donation amount is at your discretion. The GFCBA is only as strong as its members and the cooperative efforts made by all. If you would like to receive a membership application and join us, please email us at gfcba13@gmail.com, contact us via messenger on Facebook or visit our website at www.visitforestcitypa.com |
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