September 2, 2015
Flint & Genesee is working to become one of those regions whose residents are great ambassadors for their hometown. To be sure, there are many here who are well-versed, and speak enthusiastically, about all the wonderful things that make up Flint & Genesee.
Now, the Flint & Genesee Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is preparing to add to their ranks with the Certified Tourism AmbassadorsTM (CTA) program.
On Oct. 1, 30 CTA trainees will participate in a field test for the training curriculum. Students who complete the half-day session will be awarded a CTA pin and certificate. Some of the participants may also elect to receive several hours of additional training to become facilitators for the CTA program when it launches for the community in November.
“This will be a great, eye-opening experience for the participants,” said CVB Director DeAndra McCain. “Even if you’ve lived here for a long time, there’s a lot of rich history and information you may not be unaware of. The curriculum is also designed to teach you how communicate and share that knowledge with visitors.
“Whether they’re working at a local venue or casually chatting with someone on an airplane somewhere, our tourism ambassadors will be able to share the engaging and evolving story about Flint & Genesee.”
Flint will be the fifth major city in Michigan to offer the CTA Program, joining Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Lansing and Kalamazoo. The nationwide community ambassador program is developed and administered by Mickey Schaefer & Associates, an Arizona-based professional consulting practice specializing in guiding the strategic direction of the meetings industry, tourism and associations.
Starting in November, anyone can become a CTA for Flint & Genesee through classes offered by the CVB. Ambassadors must recertify each year, as the curriculum will constantly be updated to include any new attractions and events in Flint & Genesee. The initial cost for certification is $30; the annual renewal fee is $15.
The CVB supports Flint & Genesee for all tourism needs including, but not limited to, lodging, motor coach tours, conventions, sport activities, reunions, weddings, car shows and clubs and individual tourism.
For more information, contact the Flint & Genesee CVB at (810) 600-1408 or . You may also visit the website at flintandgenesee.org/visit/about-the-cvb/flint-genesee-tourism-ambassador-program/