Uncategorized Archives - York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC

The Curiosity Code: Why Asking Better Questions Beats Having All the Answers

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:38:24 +0000

The Curiosity Code: Why Asking Better Questions Beats Having All the Answers

October 14, 2025

Leaders often feel pressure to have answers, but the best ones know how to ask better questions.
Curiosity builds stronger teams, fuels innovation, and keeps organizations adaptable.
The smartest leaders reward inquiry, not just results.
Create “question habits” in meetings, metrics, and mentoring to strengthen learning and trust.
The bottom line: In times of change, curiosity is not a soft skill. It is how leaders stay ahead.

606 words ~ 3 min. read

Leaders are often taught to act fast and have the right answer. It is what earns trust, gets promotions, and keeps things moving. But today’s challenges change too quickly for any one person to always know what is right. The leaders who thrive in this environment are the ones who stay curious. They ask better questions before rushing to conclusions.

Harvard Business Review calls curiosity “the hidden catalyst of innovation.” Teams led by curious leaders perform better, trust each other more, and come up with stronger ideas. Still, many organizations accidentally discourage curiosity in the name of efficiency. Meetings become status updates instead of conversations. Strategy sessions confirm what people already believe instead of exploring new possibilities. Over time, teams get faster at execution but weaker at learning.

Curiosity as a Leadership Practice

Curiosity is not a personality trait. It is a leadership practice that can be developed. You see it in how leaders frame discussions, respond to feedback, and shape culture.

Curious leaders do not ask, “Who messed this up?” They ask, “What can we learn from this?” They do not start with, “What’s the solution?” They start with, “What don’t we understand yet?”

At Pixar, leaders protect a process called the Braintrust. Teams share unfinished work and critique it together, not to assign blame, but to make the story stronger. Everyone checks their ego at the door. The only goal is learning. That is curiosity in action, and it is part of why Pixar has produced decades of creative success.

How to Build Curiosity Into the System

Curiosity cannot rely on a few good leaders. It has to live in the organization’s systems and routines. Here are three ways to make it real.

1. Create space for questions.
Add a few minutes in every meeting for open inquiry. Ask things like, “What assumptions might be wrong?” or “What are we not seeing yet?” When leaders model this, others feel permission to think out loud.

2. Reward exploration, not just results.
Performance reviews often focus only on outcomes. Add a new measure: who experimented, sought feedback, or reframed a problem. Recognizing these behaviors sends a clear message that curiosity counts.

3. Listen to understand.
Curiosity fades fast when people feel unheard. Teach managers to listen not to respond, but to understand. That small shift builds trust and encourages more honest conversations.

The Bottom Line

Curiosity does not mean avoiding decisions. It means making smarter ones. In a business world that is constantly shifting, curiosity is the leader’s most reliable tool. It drives learning, builds connection, and keeps teams moving forward together.

The strongest organizations are not led by people who always have the right answers. They are led by people who keep asking the right questions.

About the York County Regional Chamber

The York County Regional Chamber of Commerce is made up of more than 700 member firms employing more than 35,000 individuals and is the largest business organization in its four-county region of SC. Serving the Fort Mill, Rock Hill, Tega Cay, and greater York areas, the Chamber exists to connect its members to valuable resources and to serve as the voice of the regional business community.

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Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 15:44:06 +0000

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

September 2, 2025

Mollie Rose

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

South Carolina is at a pivotal point in its economic growth. With one of the fastest-growing populations in the nation and a thriving business community, our state has an opportunity to not just keep pace—but to lead. That’s the vision behind Blueprint 2035: A Roadmap for South Carolina’s Economic Future, an initiative of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce that aims to ensure long-term prosperity through thoughtful planning, strategic investment, and bold policy solutions.

Gathering Local Input: York County’s Role

Recently, the York County Regional Chamber in partnership with the SC Chamber of Commerce hosted a forum where local business leaders had the chance to engage with Blueprint 2035 and share their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping South Carolina’s future economy. As part of the session, participants completed a live survey that revealed some of the most pressing issues our business community is facing.

Here’s what they had to say—and how the Chamber is responding:

What’s driving the skills shortage?

54 respondents identified a misalignment between education programs and employer needs.
- How we’re addressing it: The Chamber is tackling this challenge head-on through our Leadership Institute For Talent (LIFT) programs, including Business Expedition and EPIC, which connect students directly with career pathways and ensure educational programs align with workforce needs.
31 respondents pointed to childcare and caregiving responsibilities as a major barrier keeping individuals out of the workforce.
- How we’re addressing it: The Chamber is deeply engaged in these conversations and leading efforts to identify solutions. Recently, our Vice President of Talent & Workforce Development, Celeste Tiller, was selected by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to participate in a national Master Class through the Business Leads Fellowship Program - bringing together business leaders from across the country to explore innovative, community-based childcare solutions.

What’s one big policy change that could supercharge SC’s economy?

The overwhelming response: Tax reform.
- How we’re addressing it: The Chamber continues to advocate for pro-business policies that create a competitive climate for growth, investment, and innovation.

What’s the biggest risk to maintaining economic momentum in SC?

33 respondents cited workforce shortages.
- How we’re addressing it: Workforce is consistently the highest priority for York County businesses—and with good reason. While baby boomers continue retiring, birth rates are falling, and four-year college enrollment is declining, many employers struggle to identify, train, attract, and retain the workers they need. Under LIFT, the Chamber has developed a comprehensive set of strategies to strengthen our talent pipeline.

View the full presentation and survey responses here.

A Shared Path Forward

These real-time responses highlight the connection between the challenges our local businesses face and the statewide priorities outlined in Blueprint 2035. From workforce development and tax reform to infrastructure and innovation, it’s clear that South Carolina’s economic future depends on collaborative solutions.

The York County Regional Chamber is proud to play a role in this effort—supporting our local businesses while contributing to the broader statewide vision of making South Carolina the best place to live, work, and do business.

Looking Ahead

Blueprint 2035 is more than a plan; it’s a call to action. By aligning education with employer needs, addressing workforce barriers, advocating for smart policies, and preparing for future opportunities, we are setting the stage for long-term prosperity.

And right here in York County, we’re committed to ensuring that our businesses not only have a seat at the table but a strong voice in shaping the future of South Carolina’s economy.

Next up, we are hosting our signature Workforce Development event, Talent Flow: Aligning Talent Through Regional Collaboration. Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Rebecca Battle-Bryant, Director of Statewide Workforce Development, this event brings together education, business, and community leaders to explore innovative solutions to our region’s workforce challenges. You’ll also gain insight into real-world strategies for addressing barriers like childcare, housing, and skills gaps—critical components to strengthening and sustaining a resilient talent pipeline. Learn more here!

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Ones to Watch Profile: Will Gilmore

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 14:51:59 +0000

Ones to Watch Profile: Will Gilmore

August 15, 2025

At YMCA Camp Cherokee, summer is more than a season—it’s a place where lifelong memories are made, leadership skills take root, and confidence grows. For Will “Happy” Gilmore, Executive Camp Director, ensuring those opportunities are accessible to every child—regardless of background—is both a professional mission and a personal calling.

With nearly a decade at Camp Cherokee, Will’s leadership has transformed the camp experience for thousands of youth while strengthening the organization’s financial foundation. Under his direction, the camp’s annual operating budget has grown from $600,000 to $1.3 million—an 85% increase that has expanded programming, improved facilities, and provided more access for underserved youth.

One of Will’s most notable recent accomplishments is the fundraising, planning, and completion of the camp’s new Recreation Hall—a 12,000 sq. ft. facility designed to enhance summer programming and support year-round activities. The project was no small feat. Through years of dedicated capital fundraising, Will and his team reached their $4 million goal, securing major support including a $750,000 grant from South Carolina’s Parks and Recreation Department, as well as multiple six-figure gifts from corporate and individual donors. The new building officially opened in November 2024, ushering in a new era of possibilities for the camp.

But Will’s impact reaches far beyond Camp Cherokee’s grounds. As an American Camp Association Standard Accreditation Visitor, he travels to evaluate other camps, sharing best practices and supporting excellence in youth programming. His volunteer work is equally impressive—serving as Vice Chair for Strides for Strength, where he helped secure 501(c)(3) status and coordinated fundraising events generating $25,000 each; and dedicating years to Camp LUCK, a camp for children with congenital heart disease, where he helped establish the programming standards still used today.

Will’s passion for youth development is matched by his belief in the power of community. Whether it’s mentoring new camp leaders, securing resources for underserved families, or designing spaces where kids can simply be kids, he brings energy, vision, and a can-do spirit to every challenge.

As one of the Chamber’s Ones to Watch, Will “Happy” Gilmore exemplifies the leadership, innovation, and community-minded drive that make York County stronger—one camper at a time.

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Revenue Without Regret: Designing Offers You’re Proud to Sell

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 13:20:35 +0000

Revenue Without Regret: Designing Offers You’re Proud to Sell

August 6, 2025

Mollie Rose

Growth shouldn’t come at the cost of trust. Your best offers align with your values.
Ethical, high-value offers strengthen customer loyalty and long-term revenue.
The best sales strategy? Solving real problems for the right people, not selling everything to everyone.
Design offers you would recommend to your best friend. That is the standard for lasting success.

580 words ~ 3 min. read

Revenue and reputation are deeply linked. Too many businesses chase short-term gains at the expense of long-term trust. The most successful leaders understand that growth built on misaligned offers, services or products that don’t truly serve customers, eventually backfires. Customers can sense when a business values sales over solutions, and trust once lost is nearly impossible to rebuild.

Building offers you’re proud to sell means aligning profit with purpose. When you design services or products that genuinely solve problems for the people you serve, you not only drive revenue but also strengthen your brand’s credibility. Customers who feel understood and respected are far more likely to become repeat buyers, refer others, and advocate for your business.

The Alignment Test

A simple way to evaluate your offers is to ask yourself: Would I feel good recommending this to a friend or family member? If the answer is not a confident yes, it is time to revisit the structure, pricing, or positioning of your offer. Too many businesses overpromise, underdeliver, or add features customers don’t need just to justify higher prices. Instead, focus on creating offers that feel authentic, provide clear value, and are priced fairly for the transformation they deliver.

Trust as a Growth Strategy

Trust is more than a feel-good value. It is a competitive advantage. In markets crowded with choices, customers gravitate to businesses they believe in. That belief is earned when your offers consistently match or exceed expectations. Transparent pricing, honest marketing, and realistic promises are not just ethical. They are smart business. A disappointed customer might never complain to you, but they will share their experience with others.

On the other hand, customers who trust you often become your strongest advocates. Word-of-mouth referrals remain one of the most powerful growth drivers, and they only happen when people feel good about recommending you.

Designing High-Value, Ethical Offers

Ethical selling does not mean undercharging or shying away from profit. In fact, premium pricing can be part of an ethical business strategy when your offer delivers exceptional value. The key is clarity. Communicate exactly what customers will receive, who it is best suited for, and how it will solve their problem.

Businesses should regularly evaluate offers against three questions:

Does this solve a real problem for my ideal customer?
Does the price reflect both the value delivered and the effort required?
Would I feel proud to stand behind this publicly and privately?

If the answer is yes to all three, you are on solid ground.

The Bottom Line

Revenue without regret is possible when you align what you sell with what you believe. Ethical, customer-focused offers build trust, deepen loyalty, and generate long-term profitability. The strongest businesses are not just chasing sales. They are building relationships, and that is the kind of growth that lasts.

About the York County Regional Chamber

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Ones to Watch Profile: Trey Griffy

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 18:01:13 +0000

Ones to Watch Profile: Trey Griffy

July 31, 2025

As Branch Manager of Nesbit Agencies Carolinas, Trey Griffy is leading with both purpose and performance. Since stepping into his leadership role in 2019, he has transformed the agency’s Southeast division—based in Fort Mill—into one of its strongest performers. Under Trey’s guidance, the office has seen a 285% increase in revenue, with a personal portfolio nearing $9 million in written premium.

What makes this growth even more impressive is that Trey entered the York County market as a complete unknown. Through dedication, community connection, and specialized expertise in areas like multifamily association insurance, he built lasting client relationships and helped cement Nesbit Agencies' reputation as one of the top 100 independent insurance agencies in the nation.

But Trey’s impact doesn’t stop at the office door.

Outside of work, Trey invests deeply in his community—coaching youth baseball, soccer, and basketball since 2021 and volunteering his musical talents on his church’s worship team. “Coaching gives me the chance to invest in the next generation—teaching not just the game, but values like teamwork and resilience,” he shares. He also serves 1–2 times a month in worship services, using his musical skills to contribute to something larger than himself. “These roles aren’t part of my job—they’re extensions of what I care about: showing up for others, using my gifts to serve, and staying connected to the community that has supported me.”

In 2024, Trey graduated from Leadership York County, calling it a transformative experience that expanded both his professional insights and local network. “The relationships I built through LYCO were some of the most meaningful of my career,” he says.

Trey Griffy exemplifies what it means to lead with heart and hustle. We're proud to honor him as one of the Chamber’s 2025 Ones to Watch.

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Chamber SVP, Colleen Dick, Earns Certified Community Leadership Practitioner (CCLP) Designation

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 16:35:27 +0000

Chamber SVP, Colleen Dick, Earns Certified Community Leadership Practitioner (CCLP) Designation

July 23, 2025

Mollie Rose

The Association of Leadership Programs (ALP) proudly recognizes Colleen Dick, Senior Vice President at the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce (SC), Jessica Stanford, Vice President of Leadership and Advocacy at the Midland Chamber of Commerce (TX), Linda Valdez Thompson, CEO of Valdez Thompson Consulting LLC (TX), Cathy Yen, Co-Founder and Facilitator at Community Connections Fund (IL), and Mike Zwiefelhofer, Executive Director of Leadership San Francisco (CA), as the newest recipients of the Certified Community Leadership Practitioner (CCLP) designation.

The Certified Community Leadership Practitioner (CCLP) program was developed in response to membership feedback to provide extensive ongoing training opportunities for Community Leadership Program professionals. The CCLP designation provides Community Leadership Program professionals with an incentive to achieve excellence in professional performance with mastery of essential skills. The development of the Certified Community Leadership Practitioner program began in 2016, with the first CORE training course offered in 2019 in conjunction with the ALP National Conference held that year in Tulsa, Oklahoma. 23 Community Leadership professionals participated in the first cohort. Since 2019, nearly one hundred CLP professionals have completed the required 16 hours of CORE training.

“I'm proud to have earned the Certified Community Leadership Practitioner designation and appreciate the chance to grow alongside such a passionate group of professionals from across the country," said Colleen Dick, CCLP. "Providing opportunities for our next generation of community leaders is so vital to the future success of our region and I'm looking forward to using CCLP insights and strategies to strengthen the Chamber’s leadership development efforts.”

Thirty-five individuals, including Colleen Dick, Jessica Stanford, Linda Valdez Thompson, Cathy Yen, and Mike Zwiefelhofer, have completed the process, passed the certification exam, and earned the CCLP designation.

About Colleen Dick, CCLP

Colleen Dick is the Senior Vice President at the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce, where she supports the organization’s Leadership Institute for Talent (LIFT). With over two decades of experience, she has been instrumental in advancing workforce training and fostering leadership within the regional business community.

Throughout her career Colleen has managed leadership development programs for area professionals and for students at both high school and college-levels, facilitating community awareness and skill-building for over 1100 individuals across the region. She recently launched the Regional Chamber’s LeadershipCORE course, providing hands-on and targeted solutions for new and emerging corporate managers; and regularly engages volunteers and program participants through team-building and goal-setting workshops.

Colleen is a graduate of St. Andrews Presbyterian College and began her professional career as an Admission’s Counselor with that institution, starting her Chamber career in the Laurinburg/Scotland County, NC, area. She is a former Smart Choices© facilitator, introducing 8th grade students to skills in time management, decision making, goal setting and self-discipline; and is currently developing a program for young professionals focused on the how-to of community leadership.

Beyond CCLP she has earned a Leadership Development Professional (LDCP) certification from the Institute of Organization Development. She is graduate of the U.S Chamber’s Institute for Organization Management (IOM) and is a Certified Chamber Executive of the Carolinas (CCEC).

About the Association of Leadership Programs

The Association of Leadership Programs serves over 280 community leadership programs across the United States and beyond. The association strives to enhance the well-being of all communities through the work of community leadership programs. Founded in 2010, the mission of ALP is to strengthen the effectiveness of leadership programs and professionals. Authentic and organic community leadership development requires taking a critical look at situations, opportunities, and challenges our communities face through the lens of the entire community and pursuing a course that enhances the well-being of all.

Contact:
Jessie Baginski, Ph.D., CCLP
Director of Programs
programs@alpleaders.org

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Caring from the Cubicle: How Aging Parents Reshape Employee Well-Being

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 18:21:26 +0000

Caring from the Cubicle: How Aging Parents Reshape Employee Well-Being

July 21, 2025

Caring for an aging parent is a significant undertaking, often placing immense emotional and physical strain on family caregivers. This burden can significantly impact their work life, leading to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and heightened stress levels. Understanding this challenge is crucial for employers seeking to support their employees and maintain a healthy, productive workforce.

The Hidden Costs of Caregiving:

The responsibilities of caring for an aging parent extend far beyond emotional support. Caregivers often juggle demanding work schedules with the daily tasks of managing their parent's healthcare, personal care, household chores, and finances. This can lead to:

Reduced Productivity: The constant worry and mental load associated with caregiving can significantly impact concentration and focus at work. Employees may find themselves distracted, less efficient, and struggling to meet deadlines.
Increased Absenteeism: Unexpected health crises, doctor's appointments, and emergency situations related to the parent's care can necessitate frequent absences from work, disrupting workflows and impacting team productivity.
Burnout and Stress: The relentless demands of caregiving can lead to burnout, exhaustion, and chronic stress. This can manifest as decreased morale, irritability, and even physical health problems, further impacting work performance.
Financial Strain: Caregiving often involves significant financial burdens, including medical expenses, home modifications, and potentially reduced income due to decreased work hours or career changes. This financial stress can add to the overall burden and impact an employee's well-being.

The Role of Employers in Supporting Employees:

Employers play a vital role in mitigating the impact of caregiving responsibilities on their employees. Offering supportive policies and resources can make a significant difference:

Flexible Work Arrangements: Allowing flexible work schedules, remote work options, or compressed workweeks can provide caregivers with the flexibility they need to manage their responsibilities.
Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off policies can allow employees to attend to their parents' needs without jeopardizing their job security or income.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): EAPs offer confidential counseling, support groups, and resources to help employees cope with the stress and challenges of caregiving.
Caregiver Training and Resources: Providing access to information and resources on caregiving techniques, available services, and financial assistance programs can empower employees to manage their responsibilities more effectively.
Open Communication and Understanding: Creating a culture of open communication and understanding allows employees to feel comfortable discussing their caregiving responsibilities without fear of judgment or reprisal.

HomeWell's Solution:

HomeWell Care Services offers a vital solution for employers and employees facing the challenges of aging parent care. We provide comprehensive in-home care services, allowing employees to maintain their work life while ensuring their parents receive the necessary support. Our services include:

Personal Care: Assistance with bathing, dressing, toileting, and other personal care needs.
Companionship and Support: Providing companionship, emotional support, and engaging activities to combat loneliness and isolation.
Meal Preparation and Nutrition: Ensuring proper nutrition through meal preparation and assistance with grocery shopping.
Medication Management: Assisting with medication reminders and administration.
Light Housekeeping: Maintaining a safe and clean home environment.
Transportation: Providing transportation to medical appointments and other essential errands.

By partnering with HomeWell, employers can demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being, reducing absenteeism, improving productivity, and fostering a more supportive and inclusive work environment. This investment in employee support ultimately benefits both the employee and the employer, contributing to a healthier and more successful organization. Contact HomeWell today to learn more about how we can help you support your employees and their families.

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Ones to Watch Profile: Travis Shealey

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 16:03:38 +0000

Ones to Watch Profile: Travis Shealey

July 16, 2025

When it comes to dedication, service, and leadership in York County, few embody those values as fully as Travis Shealey, K9 Sergeant with the York County Sheriff’s Office. With over a decade of service in law enforcement and nearly two decades as a volunteer firefighter, Travis has built a career—and a life—centered on protecting others.

As K9 Unit Supervisor, Travis leads a team of highly trained K9 handlers and coordinates a 14-member K9 response team. Whether tracking missing persons, locating fleeing suspects, or advising young cadets through the Explorer Post program, he brings both tactical expertise and deep compassion to every mission.

Throughout his career, Travis has earned numerous accolades, including the York County Sheriff’s Office Medal of Valor, the Life Saving Medal, and Deputy of the Year honors from the Rock Hill Optimist Club. He’s also been recognized multiple times as Employee of the Month and holds advanced certifications in tracking, criminal enforcement, and law enforcement instruction.

Outside of his uniformed service, Travis continues to make an impact in his hometown of McConnells through the McConnells Volunteer Fire Department, where he’s served since 2005. Though his call volume has shifted since entering law enforcement, his commitment to community engagement remains strong, often assisting with fire department events and mentoring young firefighters.

A steadfast presence in times of crisis and calm, Travis’s career reflects a rare blend of courage, skill, and humility. His leadership and unwavering commitment to public safety make him a truly deserving recipient of the Chamber’s Ones to Watch recognition.

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Celeste Tiller Selected for U.S. Chamber Business Leads Fellowship

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 15:06:49 +0000

Celeste Tiller Selected for U.S. Chamber Business Leads Fellowship

July 14, 2025

Mollie Rose

Celeste Tiller Selected for U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Business Leads Fellowship Program Master Class on Community Child Care Solutions

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation announced Celeste Tiller, Vice President - Talent & Workforce Development of the York County Regional Chamber was selected from a competitive national pool of applicants to participate in a Master Class for members of the Business Leads Fellowship Program network. The Business Leads Fellowship Program trains and equips business leaders from across the country with resources, experts, and a powerful network of peers needed to address the most pressing education and workforce challenges facing communities across America.

This Master Class is designed to equip business leaders with research, resources, and best practices to launch community-based child care solutions. The event kicked off with a two-day, in-person event on May 5-6, 2025, in Boise, ID, with virtual follow-up meetings. Throughout the Master Class, participants will meet with experts in the field, review case studies of successful community models, and build connections with other business leaders driving solutions to child care breakdown.

Celeste Tiller was selected alongside 32 other state and local chamber executives, economic development professionals, and association leaders nationwide. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation aims to equip this group with the resources to successfully navigate community child care concerns. This group will build a community of practice among the participants, which will be a resource for their professional development in service to their respective communities.

“Access to reliable, affordable childcare is more than a family issue—it’s a workforce issue,” said Celeste Tiller, Vice President-Talent & Workforce Development of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce. “As a regional chamber, we’re committed to partnering with business, education and community leaders to develop strategies that remove barriers to employment, support working families, and strengthen our talent pipeline.”

York County Regional Chamber

The York County Regional Chamber (YCRC) is the connection between your business and our diverse and growing community. We provide resources, advocacy, relationships, and programs to help you capitalize on our region’s strengths. As the largest chamber in our SC region, we work in partnership with over 700 businesses and organizations from Fort Mill, Rock Hill, Tega Cay, and York. We are CACCE accredited and powered by professional staff and a strong, diverse volunteer leadership team. Learn more about the Chamber here.

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Ones to Watch Profile: Stacey Adams

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:26:39 +0000

Ones to Watch Profile: Stacey Adams

July 11, 2025

We’re proud to celebrate Stacey Adams, Financial Education Manager at Founders Federal Credit Union, as one of York County’s 2025 Ones to Watch honorees.

With more than a decade at Founders, Stacey has dedicated her career to making financial education more than just a resource—it’s a movement. Through her leadership, programs like Mad City Money have expanded into public, private, charter, and homeschool classrooms, giving students from all educational backgrounds the tools to make smart financial choices early in life.

But Stacey’s impact doesn’t stop in the classroom.

She works hand-in-hand with nonprofits, shelters, and resource centers across York County, helping individuals and families navigate the journey from instability to independence. One of her most rewarding moments came from helping a woman named Maria transition from homelessness to homeownership—a story that perfectly illustrates Stacey’s compassion, persistence, and belief that everyone deserves a path to financial freedom.

In 2024 alone, Stacey helped Founders reach more than 10,900 individuals across the Carolinas through financial literacy programming—including 3,000 in York County.

In addition to her day job, Stacey is an active leader in several professional and civic groups. She helped launch the Certified Credit Union League Financial Wellness Network for the state, giving others in her field a platform to collaborate and grow. Locally, she serves with United Way Women United, the Progressive Association of Chester County Communities (as Treasurer), and Harmony Baptist Church.

Whether she’s leading a budgeting class, mentoring a new homeowner, or writing her church’s first employee handbook, Stacey brings her whole heart to the mission of financial empowerment. Her work proves that financial education isn’t just about numbers—it’s about changing lives.

Stacey Adams is an inspiring leader, community champion, and truly One to Watch.

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Uncategorized Archives - York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC

The Curiosity Code: Why Asking Better Questions Beats Having All the Answers

The Curiosity Code: Why Asking Better Questions Beats Having All the Answers

Curiosity as a Leadership Practice

How to Build Curiosity Into the System

The Bottom Line

Categories

Archives

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

Gathering Local Input: York County’s Role

What’s driving the skills shortage?

What’s one big policy change that could supercharge SC’s economy?

What’s the biggest risk to maintaining economic momentum in SC?

A Shared Path Forward

Looking Ahead

Categories

Archives

Ones to Watch Profile: Will Gilmore

Ones to Watch Profile: Will Gilmore

Categories

Archives

Revenue Without Regret: Designing Offers You’re Proud to Sell

Revenue Without Regret: Designing Offers You’re Proud to Sell

Categories

Archives

Ones to Watch Profile: Trey Griffy

Ones to Watch Profile: Trey Griffy

Categories

Archives

Chamber SVP, Colleen Dick, Earns Certified Community Leadership Practitioner (CCLP) Designation

Chamber SVP, Colleen Dick, Earns Certified Community Leadership Practitioner (CCLP) Designation

Categories

Archives

Caring from the Cubicle: How Aging Parents Reshape Employee Well-Being

Caring from the Cubicle: How Aging Parents Reshape Employee Well-Being

Categories

Archives

Ones to Watch Profile: Travis Shealey

Ones to Watch Profile: Travis Shealey

Categories

Archives

Celeste Tiller Selected for U.S. Chamber Business Leads Fellowship

Celeste Tiller Selected for U.S. Chamber Business Leads Fellowship

Celeste Tiller Selected for U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Business Leads Fellowship Program Master Class on Community Child Care Solutions

Categories

Archives

Ones to Watch Profile: Stacey Adams

Ones to Watch Profile: Stacey Adams

Categories

Archives