Over the past few months, many citizens have raised concerns over local store closures. We thank them for sharing these concerns. Store closures are a very visible reminder that where we choose to spend our dollars really matters.

This is exactly why Loyal to Local, an initiative of the Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance, launched on July 1, 2018. The program has the support of 114 businesses and the effort continues to grow. The mission of Loyal to Local is to create a culture and educate individuals on the importance of what being Loyal to Local businesses does for our community.

Why is this important? Small- and medium-sized businesses represent 9,600 jobs in Dickinson County alone. Local businesses choose to reinvest in our community. A survey of 70 Loyal to Local participating businesses revealed total annual contributions of more than $660,000 in cash, goods and services to local causes and non-profits. That is more than $9,400 per business, on average, each year.

Businesses need your support to continue to operate successfully, pay local taxes and hire employees while also being able to donate back to our community.

We, too, are concerned over business closures and empty buildings in our community. That is why the Loyal to Local businesses chose to work together to raise awareness amongst consumers with the goal of keeping our community strong and a place that people want to live, work, shop and enjoy.

Our promotional campaigns emphasize the importance of what being Loyal to Local businesses does for a community. Whether it is a local mom and pop store or a local big box store location, we need to support buying locally or there will be more doors closing. Online shopping has certainly changed the retail landscape globally. In fact, some of our local businesses rely on online sales, making it a valuable tool to access new markets. We know we cannot stop all online shopping. We simply ask that each citizen seek a local option whenever possible.

It is increasingly important to ask ourselves — can I find this item locally? Is it competitively priced? Is it convenient to be able to touch and feel the product, ask questions and take it home that day? If the answer is YES, please give a local business the opportunity to sell to you. You will receive dedicated service, product knowledge and an experience that will make you feel great about supporting your friends, neighbors and community.

Loyal to Local will hold a second year kick-off presentation at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 15, at Bay College West. All are welcome to attend, especially business owners who would like to get involved. A summary of the first year of the program will be shared, along with plans for our second year. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP to loyaltolocal@DAEDA.org or call 906-360-4653.

Together, we can build a stronger community.