At the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber, we work hard to drive impact for our chamber members and for our community. We recently conducted a member survey asking for input to help select upcoming topics for our 2023 Upbeat Breakfasts. Research has shown that inviting members and/or employees to participate in shaping the direction of an organization not only has a positive impact on how they feel about the institution, it also has a direct impact on improving the level of participation.
Previously, the content and topics were repeated each year, and we have seen a decline in attendance and participation. With our 2023 focus on RELEVANCE, we are providing our members with the opportunity to play an active role in determining the future direction of the chamber including selecting content and topics that reflect issues that are at the forefront in our community. We strive to ensure that our discussions highlight topics and events that matter most to our members.
Based on our survey results, we are excited to announce that February’s Upbeat Breakfast will feature “The State of Drug Addiction in North Idaho.” This topic will cover information and facts concerning the fentanyl crisis in America, especially here in Idaho.
Drug use is at an all-time high in North Idaho. A local news article noted that “statewide, 44% of overdose deaths in 2021 involved synthetic opioids compared to 21% in 2020 and 12% in 2019, according to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.” According to Kelsey Orlando, program manager for the Idaho Panhandle’s substance use disorder division, drugs, especially those containing fentanyl, often lead to an overdose.
We will be joined by Captain John Kempf, Idaho State Police, who will share his knowledge on this important topic including how widespread the problem is in North Idaho as well as some of the current initiatives that are in play to help reduce its prevalence in our region. We will also hear from Brandi Clark, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and one of the leaders of our Idaho Law Enforcement Diversion (ILED) program, who will provide more information on valuable treatment and resources available to support those who are impacted by substance abuse disorder.
Our goal is to help members leave this meeting feeling more informed about drug addiction. When tackling difficult subjects like drug usage, we will always be sure to raise awareness of valuable resources available to help with the crisis in our community. The CDA Chamber cherishes the opportunity to create a space where we can dialogue, garner resources, and tackle these tough challenges together.
Our mission is truly our members. We are the voice of business and would love to have you join us:
Economic Forecast 2023 – Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Receive an update on the global, national, and regional economies, labor market dynamics, and the social impact on people and goods/services. Register here.
Business After Hours – Thursday, February 23, 2023
Mangia Catering Co., 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Join us for the tastiest Business After Hours yet! RSVP here.
CDA Regional Business and Job Fair – Wednesday, March 15, 2023
The Coeur d’Alene Resort, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Join us for the largest Business and Job Fair in our region! Reserve your booth here.
