Starting the end of this month and running for six weeks, the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce is offering the community a chance to participate in its “Building Bridges” program.
The program, which has been operating for seven years, is based on the concept of communication and discussion.
Its idea is simple — build bridges — so that people realize they can have dialogue and understanding with people that are “different” than them —whether it be age, gender or race.
We certainly commend the chamber for its efforts in this area.
Some 800 people already have gone through the seminar, and the relationships they have built have certainly helped Florence be a better place.
As stated in the chamber literature, the goal is to:
“Increase awareness of diversity issues in our workplace and community, develop understanding and enhance workplace skills among participants. This program will enhance communication and management skills.”
Topics covered are: Religion: Sexual Orientation in the Workplace; Diversity and Discrimination in the Workplace; Juvenile Crime and Gangs: Its Impact on Youth and the Community; and other relevant readings and material.
But the real impact is bringing people together and the discussions and give and take that occur.
We also should give a thanks to businesses that help underwrite the cost of the program.
Helping are WFXB-TV, Fox 43, Anderson Brothers Bank, Florence-Darlington Technical College, Pee Dee Food Service, Palmetto Nissan and Adams Outdoor.
So we encourage businesses to send participants, as well as individuals who feel like they could gain from the program.
If you are going
When: The first session is Monday, Jan. 26, at Poynor Adult Center, 301 S. Dargan St. It is held each Monday for six weeks from 4 to 6 p.m.
Cost: $15 per person, or $10 per person for groups of five or more. (Scholarships are available upon request.)
Course Credit: Florence-Darlington Technical College will be issuing 2 CEUs for participants who come to at least four of the six sessions.
More information or to register: Call the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce at (843) 665-0515.
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