Columbus Chamber Blog: Information about economic development, economic and business trends, Columbus workforce, programs, events and the Chamber of Commerce in and around Columbus, OH

Member Spotlight: Ovarian Cancer Alliance of Ohio

The Ovarian Cancer Alliance of Ohio (OCAO) is a 501(c)(3) non profit. Our mission is to promote the early detection of ovarian cancer with advocacy, education, awareness and public outreach to improve outcomes and help save lives. We also work to provide support to the women diagnosed with this disease, as well as their family members and caregivers.

Why We're Chamber Members:
The OCAO joined the Chamber in order to further our organization's recognition in the community and to work with local businesses to raise awareness and educate the public about ovarian cancer and its symptoms. We are hoping to do this by working with Chamber members to educate them in one on one or community settings. In addition, we're looking for opportunities to work with business members to get their company involved in volunteer opportunities within our organization.

Fun Facts about my OCAO:
The OCAO was founded by nine women in March 2009. Since earning our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status we have:
~provided grant money to OSU Gynecological Oncology, OhioHealth and the Mt. Carmel Foundation to help women with ovarian cancer in need
~established an internship program to give back to the community by helping young people 
~provided scholarships to ovarian cancer survivors to attend Camp Mak-A-Dream in Montana and to attend the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance's Power of Teal conference in Washington D.C.
~spoken at public and private events to raise awareness
~held our first annual gala 
~attended numerous health fairs providing thousands of participants with vital information on ovarian cancer
~held an awareness night at Huntington Park with the Columbus Clippers
~donated over 350 Bags of Hope for newly diagnosed patients to area treatment centers
~held our annual 5K to honor survivors and raise awareness in the community about ovarian cancer

Featured Product or Service:
The OCAO was founded not to provide products but to provide education, information and support. Our goal is to educate both the public and healthcare providers about ovarian cancer. Unfortunately, approximately 21,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year. In that same year, roughly 14,500 women die from ovarian cancer. When diagnosed early approximately 90 percent of those diagnosed will achieve a 5-year survival rate. Seventy percent of all cases that are diagnosed occur when ovarian cancer has entered its later and more deadly stages. This drops a woman's five-year survival rate to less than 30 percent.

The key to survival is early detection and the key to early detection is creating a population of women who know their bodies, know the symptoms of ovarian cancer and are unafraid to advocate for themselves within the healthcare industry. The OCAO is working to create such a population. By education not only women, but men as well, we hope to ensure that there will be a day where every woman is diagnosed at Stage I.

For more information, visit www.ocao.org.

The Columbus Chamber member spotlights put the focus on our member organizations. View our archive of past spotlights.

Logistics Member Spotlight: ODW Logistics, Inc.

ODW Logistics is a one-stop, third-party logistics provider. We help companies make smarter decisions throughout the supply chain cycle so they can streamline costs and operate more efficiently.

Why ODW Logistics, Inc. is a member of the Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC):
Columbus has been ODW Logistics' corporate home for 40 years. ODW joined the CRLC because we realized early on the importance of being a part of an organization that promotes the market and supports the local community. We value the opportunities the CRLC has provided us such as being able to network and discuss pertinent issues in logistics with a diverse group of people ranging from leading members in the industry to government officials. John Ness, president of ODW Logistics, is chairman of the CRLC and a member of the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors.

Interesting Facts about ODW:
ODW Logistics is excited to be celebrating 40 years in Columbus this year. We set ourselves apart from other third-party logistics companies because we are a second-generation, privately-owned company.

ODW offers cost-effective flexibility in distribution, import logistics, cross docking and fulfillment operations. ODW also offers shared logistics solutions that give clients the space and warehousing services they need without the sizable investment and long-term commitment.

In addition, ODW is also a partner in the widely-publicized Logistics Training Grant through Columbus State Community College. We have been chosen as one of two locations for the hands-on training portion of the job program. Under the supervision of Michael Linton, vice president of Strategic Development at ODW, this program teaches participants fork lift training, introductions to warehouse equipment and other skill sets.

While we're honored to be regularly listed as a Top 100 3PL, and proud to be the recipient of many regional and national awards, what matters most to us is exceeding our customers' expectations.

Featured Product or Service:
ODW provides an extensive transportation offering through our dedicated, asset-based Dist-Trans fleet or our transportation management group that has relationships with qualified contract carriers.

Headquartered in Columbus, ODW Logistics has shared warehouses in Chicago; Milwaukee; Chino and San Bernardino, California, and dedicated locations in Urbana, Ohio; Chicago; Battlecreek and Lansing, Michigan; and Dallas. The company's transportation office is located in Hamilton, Ohio. With more than 1,000 employees and over 3 million square feet of warehouse space, ODW serves the unique needs of diverse industries including retail, electronics, medical devices, food, health and beauty and apparel clients.

For more informtaion, visit www.odwlogistics.com.

The Columbus Chamber member spotlights put the focus on our member organizations. View our archive of past spotlights.

Member Spotlight: RobotWorx

RobotWorx is an industrial robot integrator in Marion, Ohio. Established in 1992, the company has quickly become a leader in its field.

RobotWorx sells both new and used robots, robotic parts and turnkey robot systems. It integrates robotic systems for a diversity of jobs ranging from arc welding and material handling to machine tending and cutting. RobotWorx provides custom solutions for a variety of different industries and contexts, including foundries, solar panel manufacturing, job shops and food production.

In order to provide customers with the very best, RobotWorx partners with major robot manufacturers. It is a FANUC Robotics Authorized Integrator, Motoman Solution Provider and KUKA Official System Partner.

Why We’re Chamber Members:
The Columbus Chamber provides incredible benefits and opportunities to connect with other companies in the Columbus Region. We appreciate being a part of this diverse business community.

Fun Facts about RobotWorx:
RobotWorx has strong ties to The Ohio State University. Five of our engineers graduated from OSU, including our president, Mr. Keith Wanner. Go Bucks!

Our robots have been featured on History Channel shows Modern Marvels and Sliced, NBC’s Knight Rider, as well as G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra.

RobotWorx is an enthusiastic supporter of robot education. The company recently donated two robots (“Rivet” and “Bolt”) to COSI Columbus. Over the years, RobotWorx has made significant contributions to 4-H, the National Robotics Challenge and other robotics clubs. RobotWorx also provides facility tours to local schools and community members. 

Featured Product/Service:
RobotWorx’s specialty is integrating custom robotic workcells. These complete systems include robot(s), controls, tooling, parts positioners, an operator station and a full safety environment. All of the individual components of the workcell must be carefully “integrated” (i.e. ordered, programmed, connected) so the system communicates and functions as one unit. Robotic workcells can be designed to perform any variety of tasks and operations from relatively simple to extremely precise and complex. RobotWorx’s customized systems are built to fit the customer’s product, work environment and job criteria.

For more information, visit: www.robots.com

The Columbus Chamber member spotlights put the focus on our member organizations. View our archive of past spotlights.

Member Spotlight: Ohio Christian University

With a heritage dating back to 1948, Ohio Christian University is committed to offering a complete education that develops students intellectually, professionally and spiritually. OCU offers degree programs designed to equip students to become leaders in their careers, communities, families and in the world.

Students enrolled in our traditional undergraduate program attend classes at our campus in Circleville, Ohio. Our AIM adult degree program offers several one night a week campus locations in the surrounding region as well as online degree programs.

We offer Associate of Arts degrees in Agribusiness, Business Management, Christian Ministry, and Interdisciplinary Studies. Our Bachelor of Arts degrees are: Business Management, Leadership & Ministry, Logistics Management, Healthcare Management, Interdisciplinary Studies, Practical Leadership, Psychology, and Substance Abuse Counseling.

“Ohio Christian University offers one of the finest college campuses and most qualified faculties in America. If you need to serve the needs of the church and society… Ohio Christian University is the place for you!” -Dr. John Maxwell. OCU Alumnus Dr. John C. Maxwell is an internationally-recognized leadership expert, speaker and author who has sold over 13 million books. His organizations have trained more than 2 million leaders worldwide.

Why We’re Chamber Members:
OCU is here to connect with the Columbus community and raise awareness of the unique and convenient services that we proudly offer. We are always looking for ways make partnerships with companies or churches to offer employees or members tuition discounts. We believe in the importance of education and want to meet the need to offer education to working adults.

Fun Facts about OCU:
Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Onsite classes meet only once a week
Online classes can be accessed any time 24/7
Register once with no waiting in line
Books and materials are delivered right to your door
Instructors combine academic credentials with professional experience
Eligible for Federal and State financial aid, GI Bill benefits and corporate reimbursement plans

Featured Product/Service:
If you're looking for adult education to enhance your personal and professional life, Ohio Christian University's accelerated degree programs have the relevance, convenience and affordability you need. Find out more about the adult degree programs we offer by contacting us at 877.496.8342 or request information online.

Relevant. In today's shifting economy, completing your education is more important than ever. Unemployment is 50% lower among those with a Bachelor's degree, and studies show that completing your degree can increase your earning potential by more than 40%!

Convenient. We understand the importance of family, work, and other commitments. We also know you have what it takes to finish your degree. Our flexible scheduling and online options make it possible to earn your degree without sacrificing your other priorities.

Affordable. As a non-profit organization, we're able to offer competitive tuition rates. All of our adult programs qualify for federal and state financial aid programs, military education benefits, and employer reimbursement programs.

For more information, visit: http://www.ohiochristian.edu/

The Columbus Chamber member spotlights put the focus on our member organizations. View our archive of past spotlights.

Blue Chip Economic Forecast Video Now Online

The Columbus Chamber’s Annual Blue Chip Economic Forecast drew a packed house at the Columbus Metropolitan Club last week. According to the forecast, employment in the Columbus region will continue moderate growth during 2011 as the economy recovers from the 2007-09 recession. A net increase of 0.3 percent, or 2,500 net new jobs, is expected.

If you weren’t able to make it to the event or just want to listen and learn again, take a look at this video from the forum.

The Columbus Blue Chip Economic Forecast is published by the Columbus Chamber. The forecast is a consensus derived from the independent forecasts of four area economists – Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber; Joseph Mandeville; George Mokrzan, Ph.D., vice president, senior economist, Huntington Bancshares, Inc.; and James Newton, Ph.D., chief economic advisor, Commerce National Bank.

A full copy of the forecast is available for download at www.columbus.org.

Young Professionals Spotlight: Downtown Residents' Association of Columbus (DRAC)

Each month, the Columbus Chamber spotlights a local young professional or professional organization to showcase what they offer, how to get involved and when to check out their next event. For the month of January, the Downtown Residents' Association of Columbus (DRAC) is featured.

When and why was DRAC started?

The creation of the Downtown Residents' Association of Columbus (DRAC) grew out of a group project of the Leadership Columbus 2003 class. DRAC is a non-profit membership organization for residents, businesses, and community-minded people concerned about the growth and development of Downtown Columbus.

Why become a member?

DRAC members enjoy access to monthly meetings, which provide an opportunity to socialize, network and discuss downtown issues. Meeting locations change monthly, giving members a chance to explore and discover downtown venues. These venues include restaurants/bars, businesses, new residences, and historic sites. Each event is held on the third Wednesday of the month.
 
Civic awareness is a major benefit to being a member, as pride and sense of community is a vital part of DRAC and top of mind for members. Communication tools such as the website, community blogs, e-mail updates, and our Facebook page promise to keep members and visitors current about the latest issues and developments within the city. Members have the opportunity to actively engage in hot Issues by attending meetings and expressing their opinions.
 
DRAC is the perfect forum to promote downtown Columbus! Members inspire and encourage others to live and work in the heart of it all. They support downtown businesses in an effort to bring people into the city and strengthen the economy. DRAC members have multiple opportunities to volunteer throughout the year at events, festivals, fundraisers and tours.

What are some successes or cool facts about DRAC?

DRAC has become a driving force in the Downtown community, and has been asked to represent the Downtown residents on numerous committees and boards. We have the ear of Downtown developers and public officials who are interested in continuing to promote and build up our community. Before the construction of the new Scioto Mile, DRAC raised funds and planted flowers in Bicentennial Park for three consecutive years.

How do I become a member?

Membership is open to everyone interested in learning about and promoting the benefits of living downtown. DRAC has three levels of membership and we invite you to choose the membership type that best fits you.

Community Member - $25
In addition to our monthly meetings, updates, and online community, paid members get access to special member-only events and downtown discounts. We also offer a discounted rate when registering more than one resident within the same household ($40 for 2, $55 for 3, $75 for 4). Membership fees are renewed annually.

Business Member - $50
In addition to our monthly meetings, updates, and online community, our business members are listed on our Downtown Resources page and may elect to advertise with DRAC. Membership fees are renewed annually.

Condo Board Member - $100
We now offer a deeply discounted rate for condo boards. For $100, a condo board may have up to 10 board members granted paid membership status. Upon purchasing, please provide the email addresses of each board member. Membership fees are renewed annually.

Those wishing to become a member can do so through our website or by bringing their selected membership payment to the next monthly meeting.

Where can I go to learn more?

DRAC welcomes first-time visitors to attend one of our monthly meetings. It is the perfect way to experience our organization, meet new people, and of course, explore downtown’s most happening businesses and locales.

To learn more about the Downtown Residents' Association of Columbus, visit www.dracolumbus.com or our Facebook page.

Please consider joining us at our upcoming monthly meeting on Wednesday, January 19th at 6:30 p.m., hosted at the Columbus Museum of Art (480 E. Broad Street). We look forward to meeting you at our next event... and don't forget to bring a friend!

To learn about nearly 60 other local YP and professional organizations, view the Columbus Chamber's directory of YP and professional organizations.

Member Spotlight: Benihana

At the heart of the Benihana experience is the teppanyaki table, around which guests gather and enjoy a meal expertly prepared and cooked to perfection on a steel grill, right before their eyes by a chef who is as much an entertainer as a culinary master. Rediscover the personalized experience of having your choice of succulent seafood, tender chicken, juicy steaks and garden-fresh vegetables grilled to delicious perfection in an extraordinary theater that will feed the senses and entertain the appetite.

Why we're Chamber Members:
Benihana believes in being active members of our community because this is where our team members live, play and work. Being a member of the Chamber means that our entire community is represented, and it’s one of the best ways to help develop new jobs in our community and grow our business.

Fun/interesting fact about Benihana:
Although Benihana has become an international brand, we celebrate our Japanese heritage as the most important part of the Benihana “experience,” honoring one of the oldest cultures on earth in the way we portray ourselves and serve our guests.

Featured Product/Service:
January Chef’s Special: Share two hibachi shrimp and chicken entrees, served with Benihana onion soup, Benihana salad, hibachi shrimp appetizer, mushrooms, hibachi vegetables, homemade dipping sauces, steamed rice, Japanese hot green tea and Haagen-Dazs ice cream, sherbet or sorbet all for only $36.

For more information and locations near you, visit www.benihana.com.

The Columbus Chamber member spotlights put the focus on our member organizations. View our archive of past spotlights.

Member Spotlight: Garber Connect

Garber Connect offers a strategic and consultative approach to meeting its clients' communication challenges. As a highly certified integrator of structured cabling systems and specializing in data and voice applications, our goal is to ensure that the optimum solution is developed and operational when you need it.

Why We’re Chamber Members:
We are Chamber members because we want to partner and associate with businesses making a difference in our community.

Fun Facts about my Company:
Just one call to Garber Connect and we'll coordinate all of your building system needs with your vendors or our alliance partners. Garber connect is your single source solution specializing in structured cabling, audio, visual and data communications.

Featured Product/Service:
Although we provide several technology solutions we have enjoyed implementing our VoIP solutions.  They enhance the way our customers do the day to day. Unlike other VoIP systems, which require IT departments to manage and maintain proprietary hardware devices, our solutions enable customers to leverage their investments in their IT infrastructure technologies, including Microsoft, Intel and VMware™,delivering advanced functionality at the lowest total cost of ownership. Moreover, the our functionality is continually enhanced with software updates versus hardware-based systems which eventually become obsolete.

For more information, visit www.garberconnect.com, email bbagley@garberconnect.com or call us at 614.212.7900.

The Columbus Chamber member spotlights put the focus on our member organizations. View our archive of past spotlights.