From the Chamber
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce recognizes the significant impact of Friday's announced manufacturing sale and layoffs will have on affected employees, their families, and our regional economy. Our thoughts are with those facing uncertainty, and our priority is helping connect displaced workers with employment opportunities and available community resources.
The Chamber, along with our community partners, remains committed to supporting our local workforce and connecting employees with available resources. Information regarding KANSASWORKS and the Kansas Department of Commerce Rapid Response Team was shared with Fuller leadership to help ensure these resources were available to those impacted. We recognize that communication and coordination are critical during transitions like this, and we remain ready to assist as our community moves forward.
Resources for Displaced Employees
Kansas Department of Commerce Rapid Response Team: Provides assistance with job transitions, career counseling, training, and employment resources.
Contact Vera LaClair at 785-762-8870, vera.laClair@ks.gov or online at https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/workforce-services/rapid-response/
KANSASWORKS – Great Bend: Local employment assistance, job matching, and résumé support.
Call 620-793-5445, visit 1025 Main St, or online at https://ksworkforceone.org/
Central Kansas Partnership: Community Resource Guide connecting individuals and families with local assistance, including rent, utilities, food, and other essential needs.
Visit www.ckpartnership.org/community-resources.
The Center for Counseling: Additional community assistance and support resources at:
www.thecentergb.org/communityaidresources.
A Call to Local Employers
The Chamber encourages Great Bend and area businesses with current or upcoming job openings to share those opportunities through the Great Bend Post Employment Wall at https://greatbendpost.com/category/employment-wall and the Great Bend Tribune at https://classifieds.gbtribune.com/. Displaced employees are encouraged to monitor both outlets for available positions.
Workforce development is a key pillar of the Chamber’s Elevate GBK strategic plan, focused on strengthening our regional workforce, retaining talent, and supporting a thriving business community. We remain committed to supporting our workforce and local businesses by connecting people with resources and opportunities, and doing our part to retain talent locally wherever possible. Events like this remind us of the importance of collaboration among employers, workforce agencies, and community partners as we work together to strengthen our community and move forward.
About the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce serves as the leading visionary advocate and voice for the local business community, dedicated to enhancing the economic climate of the Great Bend area. Through a strategic focus on business advocacy, community marketing, and future-forward investment, the Chamber fosters an environment where existing members can reach their goals while new enterprises are welcomed and empowered to grow. By delivering high-value services and cultivating vital partnerships, the Great Bend Chamber remains committed to providing its members with the best possible impact for their investment and ensuring a thriving, connected marketplace for all. Visit greatbend.org.