ROCHESTER, N.Y.—For more than 85 years it has been the mission of United Way of Greater Rochester to bring together the community’s resources to solve the area’s most pressing issues. Now, the United Way is partnering with Eyes on the Future to promote economic growth and stimulate individual action throughout the Rochester Region. Hosted by the Small Business Council of Rochester, an affiliate of the Rochester Business Alliance, and the Greater Rochester Enterprise, Eyes on the Future 2008, a regional economic summit bringing together both local business leaders and national economic development experts, will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on October 10 at St. John Fisher College.       �

 

“There is a natural link between companies doing well in their business and companies doing good for the community,” said Dawn Borgeest, Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, United Way of Greater Rochester. “Through joining our area’s greatest assets to individual action, we know that the Rochester Region can create collaborative growth for widespread success.”

“Through our work with United Way of Greater Rochester, Eyes on the Future will truly deliver specific calls to action showing everyone, from students to business leaders, how they can get directly involved in improving the community,” said Thomas C. Ioele, Event Chair, Executive Committee, Eyes on the Future. “Whether a company is hiring recent graduates, sourcing local suppliers, donating its resources, or volunteering its time, all of these actions are critical to building a strong path towards economic success and community pride in the Rochester Region.”

Other businesses and organizations have also joined their support for Eyes on the Future. Genesee Regional Bank, Employee Relations Associates, the County of Monroe, the City of Rochester, Rochester Business Journal, M&T Bank, Worldleaders, Inc., St. John Fisher College and Eric Mower and Associates are among this year’s initial sponsors.

At this year’s event, a panel comprised primarily of representatives from local companies and organizations will discuss their commitments to the Rochester Region, the collective work being done by a wide range of groups to foster economic and community growth, and their perspectives on why attendees should have a strong sense of optimism about the region’s future. Governor David Paterson has been invited to deliver the keynote address.

 

Admission to Eyes on the Future is free and will be open to the entire community from engaged citizens, to high school and college students, to business leaders and professionals. Local companies, area organizations and students are encouraged to participate in the efforts surrounding Eyes on the Future and the economic summit, including various sponsorship and volunteer opportunities. Call (585) 381-0810 to join the effort and share in building a successful path for economic development in the Greater Rochester Region.