Search Results for: FLEX

Gaining Value and Experience with FLEX


in category Chamber Blog tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , and 0 comments.

FLEX stands out as more than just an organization. It’s a practical platform that empowers young professionals to refine their skills, broaden their horizons, and create a real impact within their communities. FLEX offers a unique mix of experiences where community development and personal growth work hand in hand, making a difference in the lives of local young professionals and leaders.

Former FLEX President Kat Thompson attests to the organization’s practical approach to community and young professional development. She states, “When I joined FLEX, I didn’t know the community, and the community didn’t know me. Through continuing to show up and volunteer, I worked my way into the role of VP, then President, and greatly expanded my professional and personal networks. Through my time with FLEX, I’ve gained valuable experience, including leadership & management strategies, event planning, soliciting sponsorships, public speaking, and communication. I continue to be a champion for FLEX, as I credit substantial strides in both my personal and professional development to the organization.”

Building Strong Connections:
FLEX provides an environment where young professionals can establish essential connections with peers, mentors, and potential employers. The organization hosts networking events, mixers, and workshops that allow members to expand their professional network, opening doors to career opportunities and personal development.

Professional Development:
FLEX offers a variety of programs and initiatives designed to enhance skills and knowledge. This practical approach to professional development is crucial for career advancement, increasing competence in areas like public speaking and communication.

Community Engagement:
FLEX encourages its members to give back to the community through volunteer opportunities and participation in local initiatives. This involvement fosters a sense of responsibility and connection, allowing young professionals to contribute positively to their local community while expanding their horizons.

Leadership Opportunities:
One of FLEX’s standout features is the potential for leadership roles within the organization. Young professionals can lead committees or events and gain practical experience managing and leading teams. These roles not only bolster resumes but also provide valuable experience for future career success.

FLEX, with its extensive resources and opportunities, empowers young professionals in Venango County to become confident, skilled, and actively engaged members of the workforce. It acts as a bridge, connecting emerging leaders with valuable experiences and mentors. By nurturing a community of young professionals passionate about their region, FLEX ensures that a solid and committed workforce shapes our community’s future.

This article was published in the Future Leaders & Entrepreneurs Exchange’s (FLEX) November 2023 edition of the FLEX Your Ideas (FYI) Newsletter.

2023 FLEX Annual Meeting


in category Chamber Blog tags , , , , , , , , , , , , and 0 comments.

Join FLEX Young Professionals at the Annual Meeting

This event is held each year to get together and celebrate FLEX successes, network and have fun, and look forward to the following year.

Enjoy networking with young professionals. Get a free professional headshot taken. Throughout the evening, enjoy food and beverages.

The program consists of a brief review of the last year, including a look back at FLEX’s successful socials, fundraisers, and civic engagement, a preview of future plans, and an election of new officers.

Following the meeting, all are welcome to stay for entertainment and trivia.

This event is free for young professionals, but an official RSVP is required.
To register call the Chamber at 814-676-8521 or go online at bit.ly/FLEX2023Meeting.

This article was published in the Future Leaders & Entrepreneurs Exchange’s (FLEX) November 2023 edition of the FLEX Your Ideas (FYI) Newsletter.

FLEX Volunteer: Trunk Or Treat


in category Chamber Blog tags , , , , , , and 0 comments.

FLEX is planning to set up at Two Mile Run County Park’s “Trunk or Treat” on Friday, October 20, from 6 to 10 p.m.

We will provide the candy and other handouts, but would love some young professionals to join us! If you’d like to volunteer, please contact us at flex@venangochamber.org.

Can’t attend but want to join us at a future community event? We’re planning to decorate a tree for the Barrow-Civic Theatre’s display this year. Stay tuned for details!

This article was published in the Future Leaders & Entrepreneurs Exchange’s (FLEX) October 2023 edition of the FLEX Your Ideas (FYI) Newsletter.

FLEX Feature: Franklin Insurance with Theresa VanWormer


in category Chamber Blog tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , and 0 comments.

Tell us about Franklin Insurance.
Franklin Insurance Agency is located in downtown Franklin. We are an independent insurance agency, which allows us to work with a wide variety of reputable insurance companies to satisfy your needs. We don’t work for the insurance companies; we work for you!

What is your role at Franklin Insurance?
My role as an Agent and Customer Service Representative at Franklin Insurance is to help individuals, families, and businesses with their income, retirement, and protection planning. Additionally, I specialize in creating individualized and comprehensive financial snapshots for clients.

What is your favorite part about your job?
The community involvement! Everyone at Franklin Insurance Agency is invested in making our local community thrive. We are passionate about supporting small local businesses. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, our agency partnered with the Franklin Retail Association and gave away thousands of dollars in Franklin Retail Association gift cards that could be used at local businesses. In 2022, Erie Insurance awarded us the “Giving Agency of the Year” award and made a $3,000 donation to the The Arc in our honor.

What would surprise people about Franklin Insurance?
We are 100% employee owned! Being part of an employee-owned company has advantages for both the employees and the consumers. Studies show customers receive greater value when working with an employee-owned company. Employee ownership offers employees the opportunity to feel personally invested in the success of the company, which leads to better service to our consumers.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about the business?
We offer all types of coverage needs including auto, home, life, business, and health insurance as well as provide a full-service notary.

This article was published in the Future Leaders & Entrepreneurs Exchange’s (FLEX) September 2023 edition of the FLEX Your Ideas (FYI) Newsletter.

FLEX Feature: New York Life with Jacy Blum


in category Chamber Blog tags , , , , , , , and 0 comments.

Tell us about New York Life.
New York Life is the largest mutually owned life insurance company in the United States, as well as a top 25 money manager in the world. We have offices all over the country, however, I work out of our Pittsburgh-Johnstown office.

What is your role at New York Life?
My role as an Agent at New York Life is to help individuals, families, and businesses with their income, retirement, and protection planning. Additionally, I specialize in creating individualized and comprehensive financial snapshots for clients.

What is your favorite part about your job?
My favorite part about working for New York Life would have to be meeting networking and meeting new people. I have built a majority of my clientele base is here in Venango County so I am constantly getting involved in events in the area and doing everything I can to meet people.

What would surprise people about NY Life?
I think when people hear “New York Life”, they think we only offer life insurance. When in reality we are a top 25 money manager in the world, in addition to being a top provider of business solutions and retirement. Some of the things we offer include: life insurance, annuities, disability insurance, long-term care insurance, business retirement solutions, and so much more.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about the business?
A couple fun facts that stuck out to me when I started with New York Life are that they were established the same year that Florida became a state, as well as they are one of only two companies in the United States that have perfect financial strength ratings across the board.

This article was published in the Future Leaders & Entrepreneurs Exchange’s (FLEX) August 2023 edition of the FLEX Your Ideas (FYI) Newsletter.