LAPLACE — Led by its Workforce Development Committee, the River Region Chamber of Commerce is working to soon release its mission and implementation plan to connect the residents of St. John the Baptist, St. Charles and St. James to job opportunities already available in the region.

Organizers said a major milestone was reached Monday as Chamber leaders joined parish government representatives, school leaders and area community and technical college representatives for a “meeting of the minds.”

Mike Palamone of Urban Systems, Inc., who serves as Workforce Development Committee Chair, said the meeting was a huge success and “will undoubtedly lead to many great things as we move forward together.”

The group collaborated to formulate a concise set of core principles to lead and guide the Chamber’s regional effort in workforce development.

The effort hopes to close the gap between the awareness of careers and already existing opportunities.

Actions identified next include developing communication materials, bridging the gap between employers and the community, developing a defined set of best practices for workforce development and creating awareness.

Louisiana Calling, who organizers said is a nonprofit with resources and strategic planning revolutionizing workforce initiatives, has been brought in to assist.

“Louisiana Calling’s recommendations as well as the defined set of core principles will create a cascade of changes for our region and its residents,” Palamone said.