Friday Focus

[Estes Chamber]

Business Updates, and Upcoming Events & Happenings

Friday Focus Our Top Story: Economic Development & Workforce Council announces program with Chamber to offset cost of industry-leading hospitality training for local employees Career advancement is a goal of many local employees, but it can be quite an investment of time and financial resources. The Estes Chamber and Economic Development & Workforce Council are making it less intimidating for those in the Estes Valley to achieve their goals, in partnership with the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI), a global leader in hospitality education, training and certification, for the hospitality industry.  “We are excited to be able to offer free access to AHLEI, a highly-respected instructional organization that develops top-notch online training courses for hospitality career-paths", said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale. "With this opportunity, local members of our workforce who want to grow in their hospitality areas of focus will be able to select their courses and have them paid for, by us, ahead of time, not reimbursed. So those who are interested, only need to commit time to developing their skills and the rest is free of charge. It’s an amazing opportunity to give local workforce a leg-up in their hospitality careers,” DePasquale added. Courses being offered are part of the EDWC 2026 operating mission to support economic growth in Estes Park by expanding learning opportunities for local business leaders and workforce members. The instructional classes range from $25-$300 and will be covered on a per-class basis. Participants will need to create a profile on the AHLEI website. Courses will require a simple email request and approval. Most courses are offered in both English and Spanish. Interested employees may select from a range of courses including: Guest Service Gold: a universal hospitality entry program Certifications: Front Desk Representative, Guestroom Attendance, Breakfast Attendant, Kitchen Cook, Maintenance Employee, and Restaurant Server Elements of Service: serving guests with disabilities Situational Leadership: de-escalation and active threat response Supervisory Skill Builders: multi-course program To request registration for a course from the Chamber and EDWC, please email dire...@esteschamber.org See courses   With our downtown location as the first business on the river walk, we consider ourselves an extension of the Visitors Center. Serving up fresh roasted, organic coffee along with a full beverage and food menu, we enjoy welcoming our community and guests everyday. With plenty of indoor and riverside seating, we always have room! Our mission is to promote the sustainability of our environment through the sale of certified organic and fairly traded coffees. We support local nonprofit businesses by being members of the Estes Give Back Business Partners. We pledge to give 1% of sales to Estes Valley nonprofits through donations of cash, in-kind services/merchandise and/or employee volunteer time. Chamber Announcements Congratulations to our Women of Impact We are thankful for the contributions all the nominees make to our community. We honor Victoria Endsley and Ruby Bode as the 2026 Women of Impact award winners. Special thanks to our sponsor Bank of Colorado and to The Barrel for hosting our event. Photo Credit: Marcos R. Quintana Imagery We Want to Hear from YOU The Estes Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development & Workforce Council are proud to be part of the Colorado Challenge Program through Downtown Colorado, Inc. (DCI). Over the coming year, we’ll be partnering with the Town of Estes Park to bring the Downtown Plan to life through a collaborative, community-driven effort. The following is a short assessment to share your perspectives on your local economy. Your input will help identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities as we implement the vision for a vibrant, thriving downtown. Share your thoughts Upcoming Chamber Events Thursday Mar 12 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Black Canyon Inn Come join us for our combined Wedding, Lodging, Food & Beverage Alliance meeting. This collaborative gathering brings together industry partners to connect, share insights, and strengthen our local wedding and lodging community. Attendees will hear timely updates from The Chamber and Visit Estes Park, followed by dedicated time to share ideas, discuss opportunities, and brainstorm ways to support and grow our industries together. The meeting may also include a guest speaker, offering additional perspective, inspiration, or resources relevant to our alliances. We look forward to seeing you and continuing the conversation together. Register Thursday Mar 26 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Barrel Join us for Business After Hours in March, hosted at The Barrel with Cohosts NoCo Foundation! Network with fellow professionals in a relaxed setting while enjoying a complimentary alcoholic beverage and a selection of light appetizers. Whether you're looking to make new connections or catch up with familiar faces, this is the perfect way to unwind after a busy day. Register Member & Community Announcements Career Day Speakers Needed We are so excited to have our THIRD annual Career Day on Wednesday, April 29th! The purpose of Career Day is to expose students to a variety of careers in order to jumpstart their thinking about the future. By preparing early, students will be more likely to be college, technical, or career ready after high school graduation. All students, from Pre-K through 5th grade, will participate in Career Day. However, we can’t do it without you!    We need volunteers to speak to kids as they walk around the gymnasium with a “Career Day Passport” with specific questions they need to ask. Career Day activities will start at 9:00am and end at 3:00pm with an hour and a half lunch break from 12:00-1:30. You have three options to choose from:  A morning option from 9:00-12:00 (we are anticipating 5 grade levels attending) An afternoon option from 1:30-3:00 (we are anticipating 2 grade levels attending) The full day (9:00-3:00) We will provide lunch for all volunteers! If you are interested in volunteering to speak about your career, please complete the Google form below by Monday, April 6th. Bringing any posters to show, equipment to show/handle, etc is encouraged. We will provide bags for students to hold any work-related freebies you may give, so please feel free to bring any swag! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at ashley...@psdr3.k12.co.us or korinn...@psdr3.k12.co.us or give us a call at 970-577-5505. With your help, we look forward to having a wonderful and engaging Career Day! More specific information to come! Register to Speak Member Spotlight: League of Women Voters Trustee Candidate Forum Thursday, March 12, 5:30-7:00 pm Town Hall Board Room, open to the public   Town of Estes Park Municipal Election -Tuesday, April 7th, 2026, to elect four trustees for the town board. All active voters who live in Estes Park will receive a ballot by mail the week of March 16th. March 16 is the last day for eligible voters to establish residency in the State of Colorado. Register to vote at govotecolorado.com, the Larimer County Clerk’s office, or at the Town Clerk’s office up to the day of the election. Make sure your mailing address is up to date by going to GoVoteColorado.gov. To receive a mailed ballot, register before March 30.   The Estes Park Town Hall polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to register and vote in person.     The League of Women Voters of Estes Park will host a Live Candidate Forum Thursday, March 12, 5:30-7:00 pm in the Town Hall Board Room. Watch the Candidate Forum Online Member Spotlight: Estes Park Housing Authority We are currently leasing: Fall River Village Apartments – Workforce Housing • 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartments • Furnished and unfurnished options available • 6-month and 12-month lease options offered • Lease up before March 31 and receive your second month FREE  • Pet-friendly community ($30 per month pet rent) • Rent ranges from $1,544–$2,095 • Year-round hot tubs • Seasonal pool • Walking trail on property • Walking distance to downtown parks, shops, and restaurants • Riverside apartment options available Additionally, we are excited to offer a brand-new, first-of-its-kind-in-Colorado Colorado Renters Reward (CRR) Program. In simple terms, residents who pay their rent on time receive a monthly rent match of 2% cashback each month. The CRR program also includes: • Free positive credit reporting • A 2% savings match after 12 months • Future equity distributions This innovative program rewards responsible renters, supports credit building, and provides long-term financial benefits — making Fall River Village not just a place to live, but a place to grow financially. Spring Employment Event 2026 Are you a local employer who hires teens for seasonal and summer positions? The CareerRise Team is hosting a teen hiring fair on Saturday, March 7th from 10 AM - 1 PM and are looking for Larimer County businesses who’d like to connect with eager young job seekers to share about their positions and hiring process.  Learn More Don't stand on the sidelines. Get involved. 970.480.7552

Estes Chamber of Commerce | 533 Big Thompson Ave, Ste. 103 mail to: PO Box 2376 | ESTES PARK, CO 80517 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

[Estes Chamber]

Business Updates, and Upcoming Events & Happenings

Friday Focus Our Top Story: Estes Chamber Honors Women of Impact What better way to celebrate International Women's Day than with some of the amazing women who have impacted our community? On March 3rd, the Estes Chamber of Commerce celebrated the 4th annual Women of Impact Honorees in tandem with International Women’s Day. The day began with the Ready, Set, Grow women’s conference, hosted by Harriette Woodard, Bank of Colorado Mortgage Division and Julie Abel, Signature Home Team / KW Top of the Rockies - Estes Park with additional support from Visit Estes Park. After a full day of learning and leadership, the Women of Impact were awarded to two women whose influence strengthens our community, uplifts others, and helps shape a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future. The 2026 Women of Impact are: Victoria Endsley of Whimsadoodle and Bear & Bee, and Ruby Bode of the Estes Park School district. “Women of Impact connect, encourage, engage, and enable positive change by inspiring actions that move our community forward,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale. “In Estes Park, these women lead not only through formal roles or visible projects, but also through the way they live their lives—with passion, purpose, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change and innovation for the future,” she added. The Women of Impact was made possible by the generous support of Bank of Colorado and The Barrel. “We believe Women of Impact connect, encourage, engage, and enable positive change by inspiring actions that move our community forward, not only when they are actively engaged in a project or event, but also through living their lives with passion and purpose and embracing changes that innovate us for the future, and these two women truly embody that sentiment,” said Colleen DePasquale, Executive Director, Estes Chamber of Commerce.  Nominees included: Alexandrea Crain of Redrum Tattoo Kris Hazelton of Estes Park News Marissa Reid of the Estes Park School District Brittany Wild of WayFinder Cleaning Services Becky Robbin of Estes Valley Board of REALTORS Diana Brown of Estes Valley Crisis Center Victoria Endlsey of Whimsadoodle, inc Alice Reuman of Community Recycling Committee Velina Davidson of Aspen & Evergreen Ruby Bode of Estes Park School District Kristine Poppitz of Preserve Estes Park Ingrid Drouin of Estes Park Health Foundation Patti Brown of Estes Valley Voice Pamela Leitner of Rooftop Rodeo Womens Club Claire Molle of The Rocky Mountain Channel Toni Rese of Estes Park Elementary School & Estes Park Education Foundation

Photo Credit: Marcos R. Quintana Imagery

Rams Horn Village Resort is perfectly situated to offer the very best access to the scenic wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park as well as the fine shopping, galleries, and restaurants of Estes Park. Our award-winning resort features luxurious cabins, providing guests with all of the comforts of home, top-notch Western hospitality, and a family-friendly setting for the perfect four season Rocky Mountain getaway. Rams Horn Village Resort is a fractional ownership resort, managed by its owners, for its owners. It is, quite simply, intelligent vacation home ownership with a great deal of heart. The resort also offers vacation rentals in luxury two and three-bedroom mountain vacation cabins that are beautifully furnished and fully equipped with our guests’ every comfort in mind. The resort includes 46 beautifully appointed luxury cabins, a heated outdoor swimming pool (summer), three outdoor year-round hot tubs, fitness center, and playground on over seven acres of landscaped grounds. Chamber Announcements

We Want to Hear from YOU The Estes Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development & Workforce Council are proud to be part of the Colorado Challenge Program through Downtown Colorado, Inc. (DCI). Over the coming year, we’ll be partnering with the Town of Estes Park to bring the Downtown Plan to life through a collaborative, community-driven effort. The following is a short assessment to share your perspectives on your local economy. Your input will help identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities as we implement the vision for a vibrant, thriving downtown. Share your thoughts Upcoming Chamber Events

Thursday Mar 26

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Barrel Join us for Business After Hours in March, hosted at The Barrel with Cohosts NoCo Foundation! Network with fellow professionals in a relaxed setting while enjoying a complimentary alcoholic beverage and a selection of light appetizers. Whether you're looking to make new connections or catch up with familiar faces, this is the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

Register Thursday Apr 9 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Twin Owls Steakhouse Wedding, Lodging, Food & Beverage Alliance members are invited to an evening networking event at Twin Owls Steakhouse. Connect with fellow alliance members while enjoying provided appetizers and a cash bar. Members are encouraged to bring materials and handouts to showcase their business. If wanting to display your business at this event, please let us know. Registration is requested to assist with food planning. Join us for an engaging and relaxed evening of networking within the local wedding and hospitality community. Register Learn More Water Master Plan April 9, 8AM-10AM - Board Room at Town Hall The Town of Estes Park and the Chamber of Commerce are hosting a drop-in information session showcasing our updated Water Master Plan and the future of water in Estes Park. The primary objective of the Water Master Plan is to guide capital investment and operational planning to meet current and future water demands while maintaining a high level of service for all residents, businesses, and visitors. To learn more about the Water Master Plan and our proposed water future, please stop by anytime during the drop-in session. Staff with water expertise will be available to answer questions and share information. Host an Event Host Coffee Connection We are looking for a business to host Coffee Connections in March. This is a great opportunity to welcome fellow Chamber members into your space, share a little about your business, and build meaningful connections with the local business community. Attendance is typically 10-15 people. The host provides coffee and a light breakfast item while we handle promotion and registration. Available dates: March 23, 25, or 27 If you would like to host or learn more, please reach out. We would love to feature your business! Welcome New Members Visit our Website Learn More Learn More Learn More Member & Community Announcements Help us welcome new members Showcase Your Business! We are putting together welcome bags for new Chamber members and would love to include branded items from member businesses. It is a simple way to introduce your business and make a great first impression with new members. What we are looking for: Branded items such as pens, stickers, hats, small promotional items, or printed materials like brochures, flyers, or special offers. Quantity: About 50 items to include in upcoming welcome bags. It is a great opportunity to put your business in front of our newest members and help them start making connections in the community. If you would like to participate, please reach out. We would love to include your business!

Career Day Speakers Needed We are so excited to have our THIRD annual Career Day on Wednesday, April 29th! The purpose of Career Day is to expose students to a variety of careers in order to jumpstart their thinking about the future. By preparing early, students will be more likely to be college, technical, or career ready after high school graduation. All students, from Pre-K through 5th grade, will participate in Career Day. However, we can’t do it without you!    We need volunteers to speak to kids as they walk around the gymnasium with a “Career Day Passport” with specific questions they need to ask. Career Day activities will start at 9:00am and end at 3:00pm with an hour and a half lunch break from 12:00-1:30. You have three options to choose from:  A morning option from 9:00-12:00 (we are anticipating 5 grade levels attending) An afternoon option from 1:30-3:00 (we are anticipating 2 grade levels attending) The full day (9:00-3:00) We will provide lunch for all volunteers! If you are interested in volunteering to speak about your career, please complete the Google form below by Monday, April 6th. Bringing any posters to show, equipment to show/handle, etc is encouraged. We will provide bags for students to hold any work-related freebies you may give, so please feel free to bring any swag! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at ashley...@psdr3.k12.co.us or korinn...@psdr3.k12.co.us or give us a call at 970-577-5505. With your help, we look forward to having a wonderful and engaging Career Day! More specific information to come! Register to Speak

Member Spotlight: Estes Park Housing Authority We are currently leasing: Fall River Village Apartments – Workforce Housing • 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartments • Furnished and unfurnished options available • 6-month and 12-month lease options offered • Lease up before March 31 and receive your second month FREE  • Pet-friendly community ($30 per month pet rent) • Rent ranges from $1,544–$2,095 • Year-round hot tubs • Seasonal pool • Walking trail on property • Walking distance to downtown parks, shops, and restaurants • Riverside apartment options available Additionally, we are excited to offer a brand-new, first-of-its-kind-in-Colorado Colorado Renters Reward (CRR) Program. In simple terms, residents who pay their rent on time receive a monthly rent match of 2% cashback each month. The CRR program also includes: • Free positive credit reporting • A 2% savings match after 12 months • Future equity distributions This innovative program rewards responsible renters, supports credit building, and provides long-term financial benefits — making Fall River Village not just a place to live, but a place to grow financially.

Unstoppable Business Conference In celebration of Small Business Week, we’re excited to bring back the Unstoppable Business Conference. Join us for a full day of educational sessions designed to move your business forward. With expert‑led sessions tailored to real‑world challenges, you won’t just hear about growth—you’ll define what it looks like for you and walk away with the tools to make it happen. Are you ready? Wednesday | May 6, 2026 8:30am – 4:30pm - Check In opens at 7:30am Embassy Suites by Hilton Loveland Conference Center 4705 Clydesdale Pkwy, Loveland, CO 80538 Learn More Dark Sky Measurement Night Date: Monday, April 13, 2026 Backup Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 (in case of poor weather) Please plan to be available on both dates. Time: 8:30 PM – Brief training and equipment distribution. After training, volunteers will head out to assigned locations to take measurements. Some volunteers may be out until approximately 10:30 PM. Meeting Location: Estes Park Memorial Observatory As before, volunteers will help collect night sky brightness data at various locations in Estes Park using a simple handheld device. We’ll provide the equipment and any necessary refresher training before heading out. Your participation helps us continue building valuable data that supports dark sky awareness and conservation efforts in the Estes Park area. We truly appreciate your continued support. Sign-up

Spring Employment Event 2026 Are you a local employer who hires teens for seasonal and summer positions? The CareerRise Team is hosting a teen hiring fair on Saturday, March 7th from 10 AM - 1 PM and are looking for Larimer County businesses who’d like to connect with eager young job seekers to share about their positions and hiring process.  Learn More

How Can My Business Be Bankable? Thursday, Apr 09, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM $No Cost This event is ideal for small‑business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want stronger forecasting skills, a clearer understanding of working‑capital needs, and a better grasp of funding options and banking relationships.

Learn More

Pints & Plants Bingo Night: An Earth Day Celebration April 22, 5PM-7PM at Avant Garde Celebrate Earth Day during a fun evening of bingo, brews, and greenery! Join us for plant-themed bingo rounds, where you can win houseplants and garden-inspired prizes while connecting with fellow business professionals in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Your registration includes one beer from the brewery and entry into all bingo rounds. For an extra twist, try the “Earth Day Blackout” round for a featured plant prize and a little friendly competition. Space is limited, this is a great opportunity to network, unwind, and celebrate our planet together. Pricing: Chamber Members: $15 Non-Members: $20 Come sip, play, and grow your plant collection this Earth Day! Estes Valley Planet Partners Are there things that your business uses regularly that people might have available to give to you? Do you need bubble wrap, fabric, containers, or something else? This could be a win-win. Your business gets supplies at no cost - and unwanted items are saved from the landfill and reused.  Think about what supplies you use in your business that might come from community members. What might be taking up space in someone's basement or garage or leftover from a project that you could use?  Email us at estesr...@LWV-EP.org and tell us what you need.  We will update and share that information on our Estes Valley Planet Partners list at estesrecycles.org.

Don't stand on the sidelines. Get involved. 970.480.7552

[Estes Chamber]

Business Updates, and Upcoming Events & Happenings

Friday Focus Remembering Nick Mollé Nick Mollé taught us to follow our dreams and pursue our passions. He traveled the globe, from Australia to Alaska in search of unforgettable memories and unusual moments that brought us valuable lessons about far away lands. He was a man with the clearest purpose, and most endearing humor. He was a producer, writer, host, artist, and visionary who won multiple awards for his productions, and made contributions to the documentary and film community that will continue to be passed down for generations. And, Nick was, Nick. A kind, humble, jovial soul who loved the mountains, valued his environment, and wanted to see his community thrive. Nick hiked and documented Rocky Mountain National Park for more than two-decades, teaching us all about conservationism and bringing the magic of Estes Park to visitors far and wide - always with a bright smile. For some, he likely lit the spark that inspired them to visit, hike, learn, and become better stewards of our community and parks. He also loved this town and community and became a founding member of the Chamber to help our local business community to thrive. His vision and passion will be missed, but they are not gone - he instilled in his daughters the same drive and we are fortunate to have the Mollé vision living on, as strong as ever, in our community. With that passion and vision we will continue to grow, to see the world with wonder, to imagine bigger, and to give deeper gratitude for the splendor and world around us.    “Nick Molle was a cornerstone of Estes Park—an entrepreneur, a founding Chamber Board member, and someone whose passion for this community and Rocky Mountain National Park showed up in everything he did. He didn’t just love Estes Park—he invested in it, helped shape it, and worked to make it better for all of us. His impact will be lasting, his absence deeply felt, and his legacy will remain a part of this community for generations to come.”   -Chamber Board Chair Breeyan Edwards Upcoming Chamber Events Community Support Forum April 8th Members of the Estes Park business community have come together to launch a Community Support Group initiative designed to support Exchange Visitors participating in the Summer Work and Travel program. The program helps participants successfully navigate their exchange programs while fostering meaningful cultural exchange, ensuring that participants have a safe, welcoming, and culturally enriching experience while living and working in the Estes Valley. “Community Support Groups (CSGs) are really excellent additions to our ways of working with exchange visitors,” said Kiley Schroeder, Chamber Operations Manager. “They are deeply collaborative initiatives that bring together cities, chambers of commerce, sponsors, employers, and community members to support international exchange visitors during their time in the United States, and they are even recognized by the U.S. Department of State,” she added.  The Estes Park Community Support Group will hold two Welcome Weeks over the Summer Season that will include a series of activities designed to help participants transition smoothly into their new environment. A key priority of the program is ensuring accessibility and cultural awareness. Orientation activities include community tours, and social gatherings that introduce exchange visitors to local resources, workplace expectations, transportation options, and community norms. The CSG also offers resources with clear communication and cultural sensitivity in mind to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those navigating language differences or unfamiliar community systems.  “The program encourages involvement from employers, housing providers, volunteers, and community members to create opportunities for cultural exchange and connection,” she continued. “By fostering an inclusive environment, the program helps international participants feel supported while strengthening relationships across the Estes Park community.” As part of the initiative, the Estes Park Community Support Group will host a community forum on April 8th at the YMCA of the Rockies to introduce the program and invite local participation. The forum will include an overview of the Summer Work and Travel program, a presentation from the U.S. Department of State, an outline of the Community Support Group’s objectives, and an invitation for community members to join the effort. The forum is open to everyone in the community, providing an opportunity for residents, employers, and organizations to learn more about the program and explore ways to support the international students who spend their summers living and working in Estes Park. The Estes Park Community Support Program is developed through strong partnerships with organizations committed to workforce stability and cultural exchange in the Estes Valley. The Estes Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development & Workforce Council is collaborating with Bridge USA, the Town of Estes Park and the Mayor’s Office, Visit Estes Park, and YMCA of the Rockies—one of the area’s largest employers of exchange visitors—to support this effort. Mark your calendar to participate in the April 8th event and reach out to Kiley Schroeder at the Estes Chamber if you would like to get involved. Register Here

Thursday Mar 26 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Barrel Join us for Business After Hours in March, hosted at The Barrel with Cohosts NoCo Foundation! Network with fellow professionals in a relaxed setting while enjoying a complimentary alcoholic beverage and a selection of light appetizers. Whether you're looking to make new connections or catch up with familiar faces, this is the perfect way to unwind after a busy day. Register

Friday March 27th 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Vert CoWorking & Fitness Join us for March's Coffee Connection @Vert! Stop by on your way to work to enjoy a cup of coffee. We know the day gets hectic, so start by connecting with other business professionals before you get to the office and lost in your emails. This is a complimentary event hosted by Vert - your pre-registration helps us plan for the right amount of food. Register

Thursday Apr 9 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Twin Owls Steakhouse Wedding, Lodging, Food & Beverage Alliance members are invited to an evening networking event at Twin Owls Steakhouse. Connect with fellow alliance members while enjoying provided appetizers and a cash bar. Members are encouraged to bring materials and handouts to showcase their business. If wanting to display your business at this event, please let us know. Registration is requested to assist with food planning. Join us for an engaging and relaxed evening of networking within the local wedding and hospitality community.

Minutes from the previous meeting Minutes from the February meeting Wednesday Apr 15

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Park Supply Join us for Business After Hours in April, hosted at Park Supply!

Network with fellow professionals in a relaxed setting while enjoying a complimentary alcoholic beverage and a selection of light appetizers. Whether you're looking to make new connections or catch up with familiar faces, this is the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

Register Monday Apr 20 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM Virtual Training Join us for an informative and practical HR training led by a professional HR Professional, with a focus on the unique seasonal hiring needs of Estes Park employers. This session is designed to help businesses navigate peak-season staffing challenges while staying compliant and competitive. Topics will include: Interviewing best practices and compliance guardrails, including what questions can and cannot be asked and how to ensure a lawful and consistent interview process. Practical sourcing strategies for seasonal hiring beyond simply posting on Indeed, including the use of job distribution platforms that broadly syndicate postings and improve applicant tracking during high-volume hiring periods. Current Colorado hiring updates that impact job postings, applications, and hiring workflows, including required content and restrictions that are especially important for seasonal employers. We hope to set aside dedicated time for questions and answers, allowing participants to receive guidance tailored to the seasonal workforce realities of Estes Park. Register Special Recognition: Bank of Estes Park During the Women of Impact celebration, the Bank of Estes Park made a generous donation in the names of our honorees. "With 50% of our Senior Executive Management and 69% of our Officer Management team being female, Bank of Estes Park wanted to make a new, unique mark on the Chamber’s Women of Impact Event this year by awarding $2,500 to local non-profits in the names of the top Women of Impact named by the Chamber," said President & CEO Scott Applegate. "Each winner was asked to name the local non-profit of her choice to receive a $1,250 grant in her name from Bank of Estes Park. Ruby Bode selected Estes Park Learning Place, and Victoria Endsley has not yet made her selection. The bank is proud to help these amazing women continue to leverage their already tremendous impact in the community."   The Chamber thanks Scott and the Bank of Estes Park for their enduring support. Photo Credit: Marcos R Quintana Your donated item will be used as a bingo prize and is a great way to showcase your business while supporting a community event. If you are interested in contributing a prize, please let us know. We would be happy to coordinate pickup or delivery. Prizes Needed We are currently seeking plant-themed prize donations for our upcoming Pints & Plants Bingo Night celebrating Earth Day on April 22. This fun and casual networking event will bring together local business professionals for an evening of bingo, brews, and greenery. Prizes can include items such as: • Houseplants or succulents • Garden tools or accessories • Plant pots or planters • Seeds or starter kits • Garden décor • Gift certificates to garden or plant-related businesses

Learn More Water Master Plan April 9, 8AM-10AM - Board Room at Town Hall The Town of Estes Park and the Chamber of Commerce are hosting a drop-in information session showcasing our updated Water Master Plan and the future of water in Estes Park. The primary objective of the Water Master Plan is to guide capital investment and operational planning to meet current and future water demands while maintaining a high level of service for all residents, businesses, and visitors. To learn more about the Water Master Plan and our proposed water future, please stop by anytime during the drop-in session. Staff with water expertise will be available to answer questions and share information.

Member & Community Announcements Have you adjusted your tax rate? The tax rate changed from 8.7% to 8.95% on January 1. Businesses are encouraged to check their tax rate and ensure they are properly collecting; Help Us Welcome New Members

Showcase Your Business! We are putting together welcome bags for new Chamber members and would love to include branded items from member businesses. It is a simple way to introduce your business and make a great first impression with new members. What we are looking for: Branded items such as pens, stickers, hats, small promotional items, or printed materials like brochures, flyers, or special offers. Quantity: About 50 items to include in upcoming welcome bags. It is a great opportunity to put your business in front of our newest members and help them start making connections in the community. If you would like to participate, please reach out. We would love to include your business!

Career Day Speakers Needed We are so excited to have our THIRD annual Career Day on Wednesday, April 29th! The purpose of Career Day is to expose students to a variety of careers in order to jumpstart their thinking about the future. By preparing early, students will be more likely to be college, technical, or career ready after high school graduation. All students, from Pre-K through 5th grade, will participate in Career Day. However, we can’t do it without you!    We need volunteers to speak to kids as they walk around the gymnasium with a “Career Day Passport” with specific questions they need to ask. Career Day activities will start at 9:00am and end at 3:00pm with an hour and a half lunch break from 12:00-1:30. You have three options to choose from:  A morning option from 9:00-12:00 (we are anticipating 5 grade levels attending) An afternoon option from 1:30-3:00 (we are anticipating 2 grade levels attending) The full day (9:00-3:00) We will provide lunch for all volunteers! If you are interested in volunteering to speak about your career, please complete the Google form below by Monday, April 6th. Bringing any posters to show, equipment to show/handle, etc is encouraged. We will provide bags for students to hold any work-related freebies you may give, so please feel free to bring any swag! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at ashley...@psdr3.k12.co.us or korinn...@psdr3.k12.co.us or give us a call at 970-577-5505. With your help, we look forward to having a wonderful and engaging Career Day! More specific information to come! Register to Speak

Unstoppable Business Conference

In celebration of Small Business Week, we’re excited to bring back the Unstoppable Business Conference. Join us for a full day of educational sessions designed to move your business forward. With expert‑led sessions tailored to real‑world challenges, you won’t just hear about growth—you’ll define what it looks like for you and walk away with the tools to make it happen. Are you ready? Wednesday | May 6, 2026 8:30am – 4:30pm - Check In opens at 7:30am Embassy Suites by Hilton Loveland Conference Center 4705 Clydesdale Pkwy, Loveland, CO 80538

Learn More Dark Sky Measurement Night Date: Monday, April 13, 2026 Backup Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 (in case of poor weather) Please plan to be available on both dates. Time: 8:30 PM – Brief training and equipment distribution. After training, volunteers will head out to assigned locations to take measurements. Some volunteers may be out until approximately 10:30 PM. Meeting Location: Estes Park Memorial Observatory As before, volunteers will help collect night sky brightness data at various locations in Estes Park using a simple handheld device. We’ll provide the equipment and any necessary refresher training before heading out. Your participation helps us continue building valuable data that supports dark sky awareness and conservation efforts in the Estes Park area. We truly appreciate your continued support. Sign-up

How Can My Business Be Bankable? Thursday, Apr 09, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM $No Cost This event is ideal for small‑business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want stronger forecasting skills, a clearer understanding of working‑capital needs, and a better grasp of funding options and banking relationships. Learn More

Estes Valley Planet Partners Are there things that your business uses regularly that people might have available to give to you? Do you need bubble wrap, fabric, containers, or something else? This could be a win-win. Your business gets supplies at no cost - and unwanted items are saved from the landfill and reused.  Think about what supplies you use in your business that might come from community members. What might be taking up space in someone's basement or garage or leftover from a project that you could use?  Email us at estesr...@LWV-EP.org and tell us what you need.  We will update and share that information on our Estes Valley Planet Partners list at estesrecycles.org.

Don't stand on the sidelines. Get involved. 970.480.7552