CHILLICOTHE – The Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce will acquire the Southern Ohio Employer Resource Network® from Ross County Community Action Commission, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

The employee support program, launched by RCCAC in 2022, serves employers in Ross, Jackson, and Vinton counties. Lisa Valentine will continue as the program's success coach. 

“This acquisition strengthens our pledge to be a reliable partner for local employers. By integrating SOERN into our workforce development ecosystem, we can more effectively connect businesses with the resources they need to innovate, train, and grow,” said Michael Throne, president and CEO of the Chamber.

The program helps employees access social services and employment-related training. Employers join the ERN by securing a share of the network’s time. The success coach provides on-site hours at the facility to help employees eliminate barriers – housing, financials, utilities, transportation, or others – to enhance work performance.

As economic conditions become more challenging, employees’ basic needs for job retention and financial stability are expected to increase. “Worker retention is no longer just an HR talking point -it’s a company survival strategy,” said Amy Waters, Irwin Seating Senior Human Resources Manager and ERN® Member Employer. “Employee performance and longevity gains come from workforce investment and are key to business and community sustainability.” 

Employer Resource Networks® (ERNs®) provide onsite successful coach solutions centered around employee retention and advancement, making the most of collaborative funds and partnerships. ERN® Data Solutions Salesforce and SharePoint platforms provide shared templates, employee outreach and advancement training, peer learning, and metrics that drive the impact of the network. Employee need trends reveal referrals around critical issues such as mental health, childcare, and housing.

“When employee strain gets too heavy, workers leave, and when they leave, organizations lose more than just a warm body,” said James Vander Hulst, President and Chief Disruptive Officer for ERN USA. “Companies lose training, trust, and talent – a large investment. Businesses can’t afford to not support their workforce. ERN USA continues to expand its membership and offerings for the greatest impact.”

Throne also said the Chamber was grateful to Community Action for the partnership that brought the ERN program to the area. The Chamber will first aim to serve the existing employers in the SOERN, then expand the program to include more employers. 

To learn more about SEORN, call the Chamber at 740-702-2722.