At the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corporation, it is our job to lead and serve our businesses and the community. We consider ourselves Servant Leaders and have a passion for helping others. We are psyched to serve!

Servant leadership is both a leadership philosophy and set of leadership practices. Traditional leadership generally involves the accumulation and exercise of power by one at the "top of the pyramid."By comparison, the servant-leader shares power, puts the needs of others first, and helps people develop and perform as highly as possible. (Wikipedia)As we kick off the New Year, we are gearing up to serve while providing a multitude of avenues to help you grow your business as the "connectors" to your success.It is important to remember that joining the CCEDC is just like joining the gym. When you join the gym, you have a game plan to work out every week in order to see results and get in good physical condition. In the exact same way, when you join the CCEDC, plan to work out a marketing plan with us every week - or at least once a month:• Join a committee and get involved in our planning sessions• Attend a networking event• Send us some news about your business, we'll send out a press release• Submit an article to post on our blog• Sign up for a training seminar• If you are not sure what to do, call or email us!Dorothy Lane, director of the Small Business Development Center at Wilkes University, says, "We recommend to all of our clients that they join their local Chamber of Commerce. The goal of a chamber is to help their member's network and grow."She says, "When a small business gets involved with a chamber, and more importantly becomes an active participant, they open themselves and their business up to an established business network that will be a pathway to professional and personal growth. The benefits of a chamber membership are invaluable."On the first Friday of every month, our office offers a free service to anyone interested in opening up a business in need of assistance with a business plan, funding and overall guidance. You simply call our office at 610-379-5000 to set up an appointment.It is a win-win.We have the resources to support and help you succeed with a passionate staff waiting to greet you with a friendly smile and firm handshake when you walk through our door.See you soon.Marlyn Kissner is executive vice president of the Northern Region of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce and Carbon Chamber and Economic Development.