LACDC News:
Discover Los Alamos, the meeting and visitor bureau program of the Los Alamos Commerce and Development Corporation (LACDC), is excited to announce the launch of the Los Alamos Ambassador Program. Offered in conjunction with Los Alamos County, the Lodger’s Tax Advisory Board (LTAB) and Tourism Implementation Task Force, this new program trains and supports those in the community who interact with visitors and newcomers to Los Alamos and White Rock.
More than 90,000 people travel to Los Alamos annually, whether they are visiting scientists, temporary students, tourists or new residents. Where do they go? How do they find businesses? What resources do we have in town? While Los Alamos has two visitor centers in Los Alamos and White Rock that help guide these individuals, it is the hostesses, waitresses, retail staff, museum volunteers and other local attractions, as well as neighbors, who unwittingly hold the power to make or break a visitor’s experience as welcoming, positive and one to recommend to friends, family and acquaintances.
Los Alamos Ambassador Program Manager Liz Martineau, former executive director of the Los Alamos History Museum, leads the program and it is designed to help create a group of informed helpers who represent the community. It is a free hybrid program that includes a 2.5 hour A2D (Arrival to Departure) customized online training course through Visitor Engagement Academy, followed by an hour in-person class where participants will learn tips and resources to become a more effective Ambassador. While there are personal and economic benefits to individuals and businesses, the real reward is creating a community that is welcoming to all people. Enrollment is available on a rolling basis, with the upcoming in-person classes identified on the web platform.
“I grew up in a military family, and I remember my mother welcoming families to a new duty station through a ‘welcome wagon’ program,” Martineau said. “I feel that this program is similar. It is a way to connect new people with our amazing town. How we treat others in day-to-day conversations has a significant effect, not only on the general atmosphere of the town, but also our local economy. Creating a welcoming vibrant community depends on all of us!”
To learn more about the Los Alamos Ambassador Program and special benefits for business and organizational participants, contact Liz Martineau at liz@losalamos.org, 505.661.4803 or visit https://losalamosdevelopment.com/ambassador-program/.
