Supporting Local Business in the time of Coronavirus
The past six months have been daunting for all of us. During these unprecedented times we’ve also seen record numbers of people turning to the outdoors as a reprieve from the stress, worry, isolation, and boredom caused by the COVID-19 health crisis. As group events, sports, bars, restaurants, vacations, school and so many other activities are cancelled, people need the engagement outdoor recreation provides – now more than ever.
Struggling with the uncertainties about the fall, many outdoor recreation providers are trying new models of engagement. In addition to minimizing Coronavirus related concerns, smaller local adventure businesses offer an opportunity for kids and families to have an engaging outdoor experience. The benefits these adventurers provide, both mentally and physically, are endless.
Despite the great benefits of outdoor recreation, adventure businesses continue to struggle during these challenging times. Nationally we have experienced record numbers of people on trails and in the outdoors, but Covid-19 has still had a detrimental effect on small businesses. Outdoor recreation businesses have been especially hit hard during the coronavirus pandemic resulting in what a new national survey says has been a large number of furloughs and layoffs.
The current situation is dire, and local businesses need our help to stay alive, if we want our communities to look anything like they did a few short months ago. “Because of the fragility of the small business community, we’ve found that most have 27 days of emergency cash on hand,” according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Small Business Tom Sullivan. That’s enough to get them through the first pay period. But even with federal and local relief efforts, we’re long past the point where our neighbors need us.
No matter where you live, small businesses form the fabric of our communities. It’s time to get outside & support local! Come climb with us.
