Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility As we navigate the adverse waters of COVID-19, we are particularly alert to the economic impact this is having on businesses/organizations, families & communities. We want you to know that VBSR is here to help. As members, the following opportunities are available to you and everyone in your business/organization:
1) Webinar Series: Coronavirus Response Resources for Businesses
VBSR is excited to be rolling out a series of webinars connecting businesses dealing with the impacts of the Coronavirus to important resources and best practices. These webinars are FREE for VBSR members, and $20 for non-members.
Discussion on the Federal Response to COVID-19 with Congressman Peter Welch
Wednesday, March 25th, 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Coronavirus Response Toolkit for Workplaces and Families
Friday, March 27th, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Click here to register.
Transitioning your Business to a Remote Workplace
Monday, March 30th, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Click here to register.
Mastering Virtual Meetings, Webinars, and Remote Workshops
Thursday, April 2nd, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Click here to register.
If you have an idea for a webinar you’d like VBSR to consider offering, email [email protected]
2) Connect with Public Policy Manager Jordan Giaconia ([email protected])
In the face of this growing crisis, our state and federal government are wasting no time in implementing policies to lessen the public health and economic impacts of COVID-19. VBSR is committed to serving as a resource to our membership, deciphering how these policies will affect your businesses, and giving voice to Vermont's business community through these uncertain times. Please reach out to Jordan with any questions in regards to Federal (HR 620, Appropriations) & Vermont (H. 742, H. 651) legislation we are tracking.
3) Call into the Vermont Conversation on Wednesday, March 25, 2020
The Vermont Conversation, airing on WDEV Radio Vermont, 550 AM / 96.1 FM and hosted by David Goodman will be featuring a panel of VBSR members on Wednesday, March 25th, from 1-2 pm to discuss the serious challenges they are facing and sharing their stories. The phone lines will be open and if you have a innovative/hopeful approach to the crisis or want to share your experience, please call in at 802-244-1777.
4) Share Your Story/Response
Does your business/organization have inspiring story to tell about how you have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic? Perhaps a project has taken shape to support communities or your employees? A new innovative business practice has emerged? Or one of your a team members who has shown resilience in a time of adversity? As changemakers, innovators and stewards of businesses who champion an ethic of goodwill and we want to share your story. Email [email protected] for more information.
5) SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans Now Available in Vermont
If your business is unable to meet obligations or pay ordinary and necessary operating expenses, you may be eligible for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). EIDL’s provide loans on favorable terms to otherwise eligible borrowers to help until normal operations can resume. Loan amounts are based on your business’s actual economic injury and financial needs. You can learn more about EIDL’s on the SBA website.
6) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Donations
If your business/organization has the capacity to construct (or donate) N95 masks, please call call the State Emergency Operations Center as soon as possible at (800) 347-0488. If there are any other initiatives in your company to provide PPE to healthcare providers, please let us know.
As this is a rapidly evolving situation, we will continue to share resources and offer opportunities to you and will be posted here.
Source: Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility