MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER: Our Mission Beyond the Election

By the time this article is published, the 2024 presidential election will have concluded, and your feelings about the outcome may vary. We hope to feel energized and inspired, but we must also prepare for other possibilities. Regardless of the results, one thing is certain: we must stay resilient and advance our mission to build our companies, the merit shop, the free enterprise community, and the neighborhoods we call home, as well as our great nation. It’s essential that we continue to collaborate with those who share our values while also engaging with those who may not agree with us. ABC members have a unique ability to foster positivity and prosperity for all who welcome it, irrespective of the election outcomes. That’s the essence of what we do!

So what is next?
There is no rest for the weary and here are some of the things we can continue to do to keep ABC Keystone, our companies collectively and the merit shop community going:

• Contribute: One of the most impactful ways to support our cause is through contributions to funds like PAC and FEA. Your board members help determine how these funds are allocated, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how the money returns to our communities and supports the legislators we advocate for.
• Collaborate: Participate in the numerous networking events hosted by ABC Keystone throughout the year.
  As Helen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
• Training and Education: Take advantage of the apprenticeship programs and educational courses offered by Keystone. These resources are essential for developing a “best in class” workforce among merit shop contractors.
• Sponsor a Member: Encourage merit shop contractors who aren’t yet part of ABC Keystone to join our vibrant community. Many companies in the Keystone region would greatly benefit from membership. Reach out to Mike Bachman, ABC Keystone Director of Membership, (mike@abckeystone.org), and he can provide you with all the information you need to share the benefits of membership.
• Use the ABC Action App: Promote and utilize the ABC Action App, which provides vital updates on legislation affecting merit shop policies and offers tailored responses to our legislators. This app can be shared across your organization, so download it from the app store today! For questions about the app and its benefits, contact Jim Willshier, Director of Government Affairs, (jim@abckeystone.org).

Post-election, may provide different scenarios on how legislation and the government treats the merit shop community and especially ABC members, but no matter the results we need
to stay vigilant, push forward in a positive direction, take action and stay engaged