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<channel><title><![CDATA[Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce - Member News]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news]]></link><description><![CDATA[Member News]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:36:55 -0700</pubDate><generator>EditMySite</generator><item><title><![CDATA[New Partnership Launches Training Network For Entrepreneurs and Businesses]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/new-partnership-launches-training-network-for-entrepreneurs-and-businesses]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/new-partnership-launches-training-network-for-entrepreneurs-and-businesses#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 23:11:46 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/new-partnership-launches-training-network-for-entrepreneurs-and-businesses</guid><description><![CDATA[&#8203;Washington State University Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks and the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce have partnered to launch the Resilient Business Builders Network, a new initiative that will provide training, networking opportunities and professional development for entrepreneurs, small business owners and nonprofit leaders across the Tri-Cities.&nbsp;The initiative is designed to help organizations adapt to changing workforce and economic conditions while strengthening the region's long [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">&#8203;Washington State University Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks and the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce have partnered to launch the Resilient Business Builders Network, a new initiative that will provide training, networking opportunities and professional development for entrepreneurs, small business owners and nonprofit leaders across the Tri-Cities.<br />&nbsp;<br />The initiative is designed to help organizations adapt to changing workforce and economic conditions while strengthening the region's long-term economic vitality.<br />&nbsp;<br />&ldquo;Cougar Tracks exists to be the workforce training partner for this region &mdash; not just for one industry, one career stage or one kind of organization, but for all of us,&rdquo; said Cougar Tracks Director Michelle Hrycauk&#8209;Nassif. &ldquo;This joint undertaking with the Tri-Cities Regional Chamber is how we bring that commitment to life in a way that is collaborative and directly connected to the Tri-Cities community.&rdquo;<br />&nbsp;<br />Under the partnership, Cougar Tracks will develop and deliver seasonal programming, while the Tri-City Regional Chamber will provide workforce and economic data and promote opportunities through its network of more than 900 member organizations.<br />&nbsp;<br />&ldquo;Partnerships like the Resilient Business Builders Network are essential to the long-term economic vitality of the Tri-Cities,&rdquo; said Austin Regimbal, vice president of the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce. &ldquo;By joining forces with WSU Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks, the Chamber is advancing our mission to support small business growth and ensuring that high-quality workforce training is accessible to organizations of all sizes across our region.&rdquo;<br />&nbsp;<br />Workshops are expected to begin this fall and will center on planned topics such as practical AI adoption strategies for business and teams, leadership development and other workforce-related skills. Cougar Tracks will also host networking events to facilitate connections between Tri-Cities professionals and the next generation of regional leaders.<br />&nbsp;<br /><strong>Community feedback will shape programming</strong><br />To help identify emerging workforce needs, the network will gather input through a regional survey and a team of volunteer "Business Catalysts."<br /><ul><li>Workforce needs survey: Tri-Cities business leaders, professionals and community members are invited to share their training needs and priorities. Survey responses will directly shape upcoming workshops. Participants who complete the workforce needs survey will be entered to win a $200 Cougar gear gift bag. Survey link: <a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwsu.co1.qualtrics.com%2Fjfe%2Fform%2FSV_8uhJZTFFCOrBssm%3Futm_source%3Dcopilot.com&amp;data=05%7C02%7CKaren.Irey%40tricityregionalchamber.com%7Cff1a91d330c548d9c93308dec28abb1a%7Cfbda2ccf59674c588f07e73240337608%7C0%7C0%7C639162098275229342%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=G%2BWt5t4EvpnDdLtufgxJ9%2F2D9%2Bajc9G3i7XC6Mh1Dwk%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://wsu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8uhJZTFFCOrBssm</a></li><li>Business Catalyst application: Business Catalysts are local professionals committed to supporting small business success. They help identify timely workshop topics and may serve as instructors, facilitators or panelists. Application link: <a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwsu.co1.qualtrics.com%2Fjfe%2Fform%2FSV_9GjTJ1i7YtNKFyS%3Futm_source%3Dcopilot.com&amp;data=05%7C02%7CKaren.Irey%40tricityregionalchamber.com%7Cff1a91d330c548d9c93308dec28abb1a%7Cfbda2ccf59674c588f07e73240337608%7C0%7C0%7C639162098275249890%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=xVT7JSRomTI1S9yXSFFOYK%2B58gLXMrtsgPbmjULZqjw%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://wsu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9GjTJ1i7YtNKFyS</a></li></ul>&ldquo;Business Catalysts are the force behind the Resilient Business Builders Network experience,&rdquo; Hrycauk&#8209;Nassif said. &ldquo;They spark ideas, accelerate connections and help ensure our programming reflects the real needs of the Tri-Cities business community.&rdquo;<br />&nbsp;<br />Community members interested in learning more about Cougar Tracks and the Resilient Business Builders Network can visit the Tri-City Regional Chamber's Small Business Fair from 3 to 6 p.m. on June 9 at the Tri-Cities Business and Visitor Center, 7130 W. Grandridge Blvd., Kennewick.<br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Yakima Federal Savings and Loan Announces Tri-Cities Leadership Promotions]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/yakima-federal-savings-and-loan-announces-tri-cities-leadership-promotions]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/yakima-federal-savings-and-loan-announces-tri-cities-leadership-promotions#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 23:05:22 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/yakima-federal-savings-and-loan-announces-tri-cities-leadership-promotions</guid><description><![CDATA[Yakima Federal Savings and Loan today announced the promotions of three key team members to leadership positions within its Tri-Cities branch network. Tony Mayorga, Levi Hughes, and Katie Tripp have elevated into new management roles, reflecting their dedication to the association and the local communities they serve."These well-deserved advancements reflect the hard work, extensive knowledge, and deep dedication of our staff," said Dan Gaulke President and CEO of Yakima Federal. "We are proud t [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">Yakima Federal Savings and Loan today announced the promotions of three key team members to leadership positions within its Tri-Cities branch network. Tony Mayorga, Levi Hughes, and Katie Tripp have elevated into new management roles, reflecting their dedication to the association and the local communities they serve.<br /><br />"These well-deserved advancements reflect the hard work, extensive knowledge, and deep dedication of our staff," said Dan Gaulke President and CEO of Yakima Federal. "We are proud to see our team members grow within the organization and take on vital leadership roles that support our customers throughout the region."<br /><br /><strong>Tony Mayorga</strong> has been promoted to Assistant Secretary and Branch Manager of the Pasco office. Mayorga joined Yakima Federal in October 2020 as a management trainee. He transitioned to the Pasco office in February 2024 and most recently served as Branch Supervisor since September 2025.<br /><br /><strong>Levi Hughes</strong> has been named Assistant Secretary and Branch Manager of the Gage office in Kennewick. Hughes began his career with Yakima Federal as a branch banker in July 2021, advancing to Management Trainee in July 2023. Like Mayorga, he was promoted to Branch Supervisor in September 2025 before stepping into his current managerial role.<br /><br /><strong>Katie Tripp</strong> has been promoted to Assistant Branch Manager of the Richland office. A longtime member of the Yakima Federal team, Tripp joined the association in September 2016. She brings years of specialized operations experience to her new position, having served as Savings Supervisor at the Richland location since June 2019.<br />&#8203;<br />Yakima Federal invites the community to join in congratulating Mayorga, Hughes, and Tripp on their new appointments and wishing them continued success as they lead their respective branches.<br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ben Franklin Transit to Debut Pink Buses in October]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/ben-franklin-transit-to-debut-pink-buses-in-october]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/ben-franklin-transit-to-debut-pink-buses-in-october#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 20:45:38 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/ben-franklin-transit-to-debut-pink-buses-in-october</guid><description><![CDATA[Plans are underway to debut a pink Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) Breast Cancer Awareness bus and Dial-A-Ride vehicle in October, with the goal of displaying the printed names of 1,000 local breast cancer survivors and thrivers on their exteriors. All community members who are survivors and would like their name included on the Driven by Hope buses are invited to visit bft.org/pink/ and complete the Name Use Consent and Release form. There is a space at the bottom to print your name, and that is how [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">Plans are underway to debut a pink Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) Breast Cancer Awareness bus and Dial-A-Ride vehicle in October, with the goal of displaying the printed names of 1,000 local breast cancer survivors and thrivers on their exteriors. All community members who are survivors and would like their name included on the <strong><em>Driven by Hope</em></strong> buses are invited to visit <a href="http://bft.org/pink/" target="_blank">bft.org/pink/</a> and complete the <strong>Name Use Consent and Release</strong> form. There is a space at the bottom to print your name, and that is how it will be displayed on the bus.<br /><br />Please return completed forms to <a href="mailto:marketing@bft.org">marketing@bft.org</a> by <strong>Friday, July 17</strong>. BFT staff will also host a table to collect forms at the Madison &amp; Friends Charity Art Fundraiser on Saturday, June 27, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Layered Cake Artistry in Downtown Kennewick.<br /><br />Community members will be invited to a ceremony at the beginning of October to unveil the specially wrapped buses.</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tri-Cities Official SeattleFWC26 Fan Zone Events]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/tri-cities-official-seattlefwc26-fan-zone-events]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/tri-cities-official-seattlefwc26-fan-zone-events#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 19:54:18 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/tri-cities-official-seattlefwc26-fan-zone-events</guid><description><![CDATA[&#8203;The City of Pasco will host four Official SeattleFWC26 Fan Zone events in June and July, celebrating the world&rsquo;s biggest sporting event with free watch parties at Gesa Stadium and the Pasco Sporting Complex.&nbsp;The City of Pasco has partnered with Visit Tri-Cities, Ben Franklin Transit, the Pasco School District, the Richland School District, and many local businesses to create free, family-friendly Fan Zone events full of great food, live entertainment, prizes and giveaways, socc [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">&#8203;The City of Pasco will host four Official SeattleFWC26 Fan Zone events in June and July, celebrating the world&rsquo;s biggest sporting event with free watch parties at Gesa Stadium and the Pasco Sporting Complex.<br />&nbsp;<br />The City of Pasco has partnered with Visit Tri-Cities, Ben Franklin Transit, the Pasco School District, the Richland School District, and many local businesses to create free, family-friendly Fan Zone events full of great food, live entertainment, prizes and giveaways, soccer activities, and plenty of fan excitement.<br />&nbsp;<br />Ben Franklin Transit will offer free soccer shuttles every 30 minutes on Fan Zone days. Fans can park at the Three Rivers Transit Center in Kennewick or at the Knight Street Transit Center in Richland to be shuttled directly to the Fan Zone &ndash; no need to search for parking or worry about traffic!<br />&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;<br /><strong>Fan Zone Schedule:</strong><br />&nbsp;<br /><strong>June 15:</strong> Fan Zone at Gesa Stadium opens at 10:00AM<br /><ul><li>Featured match: Belgium vs. Egypt</li><li>BFT Soccer Shuttle 8:00AM-5:00PM</li><li>Special Bonus: Soccer drills and skills with Richland High School and Pasco High School Soccer players</li></ul>&nbsp;<br /><strong>June 19:</strong> Fan Zone at Pasco Sporting Complex opens at 10:00AM<br /><ul><li>Featured match: USA vs. Australia</li><li>BFT Soccer Shuttle 8:00AM-5:00PM</li><li>Special Bonus: Esports players on the big screen (compete on June 15 to qualify!)</li></ul>&nbsp;<br /><strong>July 1: </strong>Fan Zone at Gesa Stadium opens at 11:00AM<br /><ul><li>Featured match: Round of 32</li><li>BFT Soccer Shuttle 9:00AM-6:00PM</li><li>Special Bonus: performances by Los Fujis de Washington</li></ul>&nbsp;<br /><strong>July 6: </strong>Fan Zone at Gesa Stadium opens at 3:00PM<br /><ul><li>Featured match: Round of 16</li><li>BFT Soccer Shuttle 1:00PM-10:00PM</li><li>Special Bonus: Ballet Folklorico performances</li></ul>&nbsp;<br />Each Fan Zone event will close one hour after the end of the featured match.<br />&nbsp;<br />The City of Pasco will host a media preview on June 8, 2026 to provide visuals and interviews in English and Spanish. RSVP to City of Pasco Communications before 5:00PM on June 6, 2026.<br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Columbia Safety Training Center Hosts Free Community CPR Event for National CPR & AED Awareness Week]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/columbia-safety-training-center-hosts-free-community-cpr-event-for-national-cpr-aed-awareness-week]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/columbia-safety-training-center-hosts-free-community-cpr-event-for-national-cpr-aed-awareness-week#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 17:51:25 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/columbia-safety-training-center-hosts-free-community-cpr-event-for-national-cpr-aed-awareness-week</guid><description><![CDATA[Columbia Safety Training Center invites the community to celebrate National CPR &amp; AED Awareness Week with a free, family-friendly event focused on lifesaving education, hands-only CPR training, and community safety awareness.The &ldquo;Spring Into Action&rdquo; event will take place on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Columbia Safety Training Center, located at 9530 Bedford St, Pasco, WA 99301.Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend and participate in free & [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">Columbia Safety Training Center invites the community to celebrate National CPR &amp; AED Awareness Week with a free, family-friendly event focused on lifesaving education, hands-only CPR training, and community safety awareness.<br /><br />The &ldquo;Spring Into Action&rdquo; event will take place on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Columbia Safety Training Center, located at 9530 Bedford St, Pasco, WA 99301.<br /><br />Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend and participate in free &ldquo;Hands-Only CPR&rdquo; classes designed to help everyday people gain the confidence to respond during a cardiac emergency. Registration is strongly encouraged.<br /><br />In addition to free CPR instruction, attendees can enjoy a variety of interactive activities and demonstrations, including:<br />&bull; A live demonstration from Tri-Tech Skills Center<br />&bull; A special appearance by Sparky the Fire Dog<br />&bull; &ldquo;Touch A Truck&rdquo; emergency vehicle experiences<br />&bull;&nbsp;Music, kids activities, and more family fun<br /><br />&ldquo;CPR knowledge can save lives, and we want to make training accessible, engaging, and fun for our community,&rdquo; said representatives from Columbia Safety Training Center. &ldquo;This event is about empowering people to take action in an emergency while bringing families together for a meaningful community event.&rdquo;<br /><br />National CPR &amp; AED Awareness Week highlights the importance of immediate bystander response during cardiac emergencies. According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR can double or even triple a person&rsquo;s chance of survival after cardiac arrest.<br /><br />&#8203;For additional information or to register for the event, contact Columbia Safety Training Center at 509-820-3883 or visit <a href="http://www.columbiasafety.net" target="_blank">www.columbiasafety.net</a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trios Health Names Chelsea White as DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses Recipient]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/trios-health-names-chelsea-white-as-daisy-awardr-for-extraordinary-nurses-recipient]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/trios-health-names-chelsea-white-as-daisy-awardr-for-extraordinary-nurses-recipient#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 17:49:12 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/trios-health-names-chelsea-white-as-daisy-awardr-for-extraordinary-nurses-recipient</guid><description><![CDATA[       Trios Health is proud to announce that Registered Nurse Chelsea White has been selected as a recipient of the DAISY Award&reg; for Extraordinary Nurses, a recognition reserved for nurses who exemplify exceptional compassion, clinical excellence, and dedication to patient care.Chelsea has served patients and families in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Trios Health since 2024 and is recognized for her outstanding teamwork, leadership, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care  [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/uploads/4/8/9/6/48961239/img-3025_orig.jpeg" alt="Nurse Chelsea White with certificate" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph">Trios Health is proud to announce that Registered Nurse Chelsea White has been selected as a recipient of the DAISY Award&reg; for Extraordinary Nurses, a recognition reserved for nurses who exemplify exceptional compassion, clinical excellence, and dedication to patient care.<br /><br />Chelsea has served patients and families in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Trios Health since 2024 and is recognized for her outstanding teamwork, leadership, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care during critical situations.<br /><br />Chelsea was nominated following a particularly challenging shift in which a Progressive Care Unit (PCU) patient rapidly declined and required immediate, intensive intervention. Despite already managing her own ICU patient assignment, Chelsea quickly stepped in to support the bedside nurse and broader care team.<br /><br />During a bedside procedure performed by a provider, Chelsea ensured all necessary supplies were immediately available and remained at the patient&rsquo;s side throughout the procedure to assist in any way needed. As the patient&rsquo;s condition advanced, ultimately requiring activation of the mass transfusion protocol, pressor support, and transfer to ICU-level care, Chelsea demonstrated calm leadership, adaptability, and unwavering teamwork while assuming responsibility for the patient&rsquo;s ongoing care in the ICU.<br /><br />Her colleague described Chelsea as &ldquo;one of the most supportive team players&rdquo; they have ever worked with and noted that this shift was just one example of the advocacy and professionalism she demonstrates every day.<br /><br />&ldquo;Chelsea exemplifies the very best of nursing,&rdquo; said Kena Chase, Market Chief Nursing Officer at Trios Health. &ldquo;Her ability to remain calm under pressure, support her teammates, and provide exceptional compassionate care during critical moments reflects the values we strive to uphold every day. We are incredibly proud to recognize Chelsea with this well-deserved DAISY Award.&rdquo;<br /><br />The DAISY Award&reg; is an international program established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes to honor the extraordinary nursing care he received. Today, the award continues to celebrate nurses who exemplify exceptional compassion and clinical excellence around the world.<br /><br />To nominate a nurse or to learn more about The DAISY Award&reg;, visit <a href="https://www.trioshealth.org/daisy">https://www.trioshealth.org/daisy</a><br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Anonymous Donor Spurs $1 million Match Challenge for Youth Mental Health]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/anonymous-donor-spurs-1-million-match-challenge-for-youth-mental-health]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/anonymous-donor-spurs-1-million-match-challenge-for-youth-mental-health#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 18:50:25 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/anonymous-donor-spurs-1-million-match-challenge-for-youth-mental-health</guid><description><![CDATA[Lutheran Community Services Northwest (LCSNW) Tri-Cities is thrilled to announce a transformational investment in the future of youth mental health services in the Tri-Cities. An anonymous donor has made a $500,000 gift and committed to a dollar-for-dollar matching challenge of up to $1 million to support the LCSNW Tri-Cities Office Expansion Campaign.The generous donor, who has a strong connection to the local community, is passionate about youth mental health and recognizes the growing need fo [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">Lutheran Community Services Northwest (LCSNW) Tri-Cities is thrilled to announce a transformational investment in the future of youth mental health services in the Tri-Cities. An anonymous donor has made a $500,000 gift and committed to a dollar-for-dollar matching challenge of up to $1 million to support the LCSNW Tri-Cities Office Expansion Campaign.<br /><br />The generous donor, who has a strong connection to the local community, is passionate about youth mental health and recognizes the growing need for accessible, high-quality behavioral health services in the Tri-Cities. Their investment reflects a shared belief that expanding the nonprofit&rsquo;s facility will directly increase capacity and improve care in a space designed for healing.<br /><br />&ldquo;This is a game-changing moment for our organization and our community,&rdquo; says Tri-Cities District Director Sharon Gentry. &ldquo;This donor understands our vision. It&rsquo;s not just adding brick and mortar &ndash; it&rsquo;s setting a new standard for behavioral healthcare in our region and challenging all of us to double the impact.&rdquo;<br /><br />Beginning now through March 31, 2027, every dollar donated to the Tri-Cities Office Expansion Campaign will be matched 1:1, up to $1 million. That means a $100 gift becomes $200, and a $5,000 gift becomes $10,000 &ndash; accelerating progress toward the campaign goal.<br /><br />Both the initial $500,000 gift and all matched funds will be used exclusively to support the expansion of LCSNW to a new facility on Canal Drive in Kennewick. LCSNW invites individuals, businesses, foundations, and grant makers to help unlock the full $1 million match. Donations may be made through one-time or recurring gifts, pledges, employer matching programs, donor-advised funds, and planned giving. (See attached Capital Campaign handout.)<br /><br />Community members can also support the campaign by attending upcoming fundraising events, such as the new LCSNW Pickleball Tournament of Hope on September 19 in Kennewick. <br /><br />&#8203;To learn more or to make a donation, visit lcsnw.org/project/tc-expansion.</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[3 Rivers Community Foundation Supports Area Nonprofit Partners in Building a Living Organizational Legacy]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/3-rivers-community-foundation-supports-area-nonprofit-partners-in-building-a-living-organizational-legacy]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/3-rivers-community-foundation-supports-area-nonprofit-partners-in-building-a-living-organizational-legacy#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 18:49:27 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/3-rivers-community-foundation-supports-area-nonprofit-partners-in-building-a-living-organizational-legacy</guid><description><![CDATA[3 Rivers Community Foundation (3RCF) continues to help area nonprofits gain momentum and financial stability by making it possible for them to start a named agency fund as part of 3RCF's overall $14 million endowment.What Is an Agency FundAn agency fund is a permanent, endowed fund invested for growth by 3RCF on behalf of a nonprofit organization. These agency funds are managed and invested as part of 3RCF's larger pool of endowed funds, creating expanded opportunity for the nonprofit to compoun [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">3 Rivers Community Foundation (3RCF) continues to help area nonprofits gain momentum and financial stability by making it possible for them to start a named agency fund as part of 3RCF's overall $14 million endowment.<br /><br />What Is an Agency Fund<br />An agency fund is a permanent, endowed fund invested for growth by 3RCF on behalf of a nonprofit organization. These agency funds are managed and invested as part of 3RCF's larger pool of endowed funds, creating expanded opportunity for the nonprofit to compound and grow their financial assets without the burden of managing their own fund.<br /><br />Why It Matters<br />Partnering with 3RCF to build an agency fund is an accessible, efficient way to build a financial legacy for local nonprofit organizations. 3RCF simplifies the process for nonprofit agencies to start an endowment with low minimums and admin fees.<br /><br />Currently, 3RCF manages a $14 million endowment, including agency funds for these 15 nonprofit partners: AACCES, Children's Developmental Center, Columbia Ability Alliance, Downtown Kennewick Development E, Elijah Family Homes, Generational Care, Gesa Carousel of Dreams, Leadership Tri-Cities, Mid-Columbia Ballet, Mid-Columbia Mastersingers, Mid-Columbia Symphony, Princess Theatre, The Children's Reading Foundation, Therapeutic Riding of Tri-Cities, Women Helping Women.<br /><br />Quote from Agency Fund Partner, Leonard Moore of AACCES<br /><br />"AACCES wanted to create a long-lasting legacy that will benefit the community and continue well into the future. We are grateful that 3 Rivers Community Foundation is the vehicle that makes this possible. The agency nonprofit endowment process has been very straight forward." <br /><br />&#8203;Quote from Agency Fund Partner, Jessica Parnell of Therapeutic Riding of Tri-Cities (TROT) &ldquo;TROT is grateful to ensure the Legacy of Therapeutic Riding of Tri Cities by partnering with 3 Rivers Community Foundation. This Endowment will honor our 12 year history and sustain TROT&rsquo;s future as we continue to improve lives and increase our impact in this community.&rdquo;<br /><br />Agency fund presentations from 3RCF can be scheduled upon request for your nonprofit board and staff. Contact Abbey Cameron with questions.</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Children's Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia Receives $10,000 Grant from Battelle to Support Summer Literacy Efforts]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/childrens-reading-foundation-of-the-mid-columbia-receives-10000-grant-from-battelle-to-support-summer-literacy-efforts]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/childrens-reading-foundation-of-the-mid-columbia-receives-10000-grant-from-battelle-to-support-summer-literacy-efforts#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 18:48:41 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/childrens-reading-foundation-of-the-mid-columbia-receives-10000-grant-from-battelle-to-support-summer-literacy-efforts</guid><description><![CDATA[The Children's Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia (CRFMC) is proud to announce it has received a $10,000 grant from Battelle, which operates Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, WA. This funding will directly support CRFMC's Read Up! Stop the Summer Slide program, an annual effort to get more than 10,000 books into the hands of children who need them most across Benton and Franklin counties.Research shows that many students, particularly those without access to books at home, l [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">The Children's Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia (CRFMC) is proud to announce it has received a $10,000 grant from Battelle, which operates Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, WA. This funding will directly support CRFMC's Read Up! Stop the Summer Slide program, an annual effort to get more than 10,000 books into the hands of children who need them most across Benton and Franklin counties.<br /><br />Research shows that many students, particularly those without access to books at home, lose valuable reading skills over the summer months. CRFMC's Read Up! program combats the "summer slide" by distributing books and providing literacy engagement opportunities at community events and outreach locations throughout the region.<br /><br />"We are incredibly grateful to Battelle for their continued investment in early literacy and for helping ensure every child enters the next school year ready to learn and succeed," said Leanne Luehrs-Purcell, Executive Director of CRFMC. "This support helps us reach families where they are, in parks, food banks, and schools, with free books and bilingual literacy tools."<br /><br />CRFMC partners with Mid-Columbia Libraries to host literacy-rich events, and collaborates with community organizations such as St. Vincent de Paul, Tri-City Food Bank, The Boys and Girls Club, local free and reduced summer lunch programs, and many other community partners to reach families in need.<br />&#8203;<br />To learn more about upcoming locations and events&mdash;or to support our mission&mdash;please visit <a href="http://www.read20minutes.org/">www.read20minutes.org</a>.<br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trios Health Appoints Tayte Koussa as Director of Therapy Services]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/trios-health-appoints-tayte-koussa-as-director-of-therapy-services]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/trios-health-appoints-tayte-koussa-as-director-of-therapy-services#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 18:47:31 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/member-news/trios-health-appoints-tayte-koussa-as-director-of-therapy-services</guid><description><![CDATA[ Trios Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Tayte Koussa, OTD, OTR/L, as Director of Therapy Services. In this role, Koussa will oversee therapy operations across two outpatient therapy clinics and multiple service lines, including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Pulmonary Rehabilitation, and Lactation Services in both inpatient and outpatient settings.Born and raised in the Tri-Cities, Tayte brings a deep connection to the community an [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<span class='imgPusher' style='float:left;height:0px'></span><span style='display: table;width:233px;position:relative;float:left;max-width:100%;;clear:left;margin-top:0px;*margin-top:0px'><a><img src="https://www.tricityregionalchamber.com/uploads/4/8/9/6/48961239/published/koussatayte2.jpg?1778525305" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; border-width:1px;padding:3px; max-width:100%" alt="Picture" class="galleryImageBorder wsite-image" /></a><span style="display: table-caption; caption-side: bottom; font-size: 90%; margin-top: -10px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: center;" class="wsite-caption"></span></span> <div class="paragraph" style="display:block;">Trios Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Tayte Koussa, OTD, OTR/L, as Director of Therapy Services. In this role, Koussa will oversee therapy operations across two outpatient therapy clinics and multiple service lines, including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Pulmonary Rehabilitation, and Lactation Services in both inpatient and outpatient settings.<br /><br />Born and raised in the Tri-Cities, Tayte brings a deep connection to the community and a strong commitment to improving access to high-quality rehabilitation services for local patients and families. She returned to the Tri-Cities in 2021 to join Trios Health after contributing to the development of NICU therapy programs for hospitals in Omaha, Nebraska, and Loma Linda, California.<br /><br />Tayte earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Creighton University and brings a decade of hospital-based rehabilitation experience spanning inpatient, outpatient, and NICU settings. Since joining Trios Health, she has held several leadership roles of increasing responsibility, including Therapy Supervisor and Interim Director of Therapy Services, before being named Director in 2026.<br /><br />During her tenure, Tayte has led several key initiatives, including the opening of Trios Health&rsquo;s sixth-floor therapy clinic, implementation of inpatient productivity standards, expansion of therapy leadership support roles, improvements to lymphedema and wound care referral pathways, and support of major operational transitions across the department.<br /><br />&ldquo;Tayte&rsquo;s dedication to patient-centered care and her ability to foster collaboration across disciplines make her an exceptional leader for our therapy services team,&rdquo; said Jack Janezic, Assistant Administrator, Trios Health. &ldquo;Her vision and experience will continue to strengthen and expand the high-quality care we provide to our community.&rdquo;<br /><br />Tayte is recognized for her collaborative leadership style, strong focus on accountability and organizational culture, and dedication to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. She is passionate about staff development, program growth, interdisciplinary collaboration, and addressing the evolving healthcare needs of the Tri-Cities community.</div> <hr style="width:100%;clear:both;visibility:hidden;"></hr>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>