DUBOIS – Downtown DuBois Inc. is inviting community members to participate in a “virtual” First Friday event to support local businesses.
The event is being held, from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Friday, May 1 and includes more than 40 businesses, said Downtown DuBois Inc. Director Julie Stewart via e-mail.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, she said downtown businesses have adjusted to taking orders online and via phone. Others are making their food and dessert offerings for pick-up or delivery.
And she said gift certificates are being made available for purchase to help support businesses now, as they wait for further guidance to resume operations and services.
“This is a great time for our community to use as many services as possible,” said Downtown DuBois Inc. President Linda Crandall, while prompting others to join the social media promotion.
“[People] can tag their favorite businesses on social media … post positive reviews and show general support.” Crandall said Virtual First Friday will also feature Facebook Lives throughout the day.
During the pandemic and subsequent business shutdown, Downtown DuBois Inc. has provided information on emergency assistance programs and other available resources.
“But more needed to be done,” Stewart said. “Many businesses and organizations have created innovative promotions to assist their fellow business owners and community.
“The Virtual First Friday is just another away to get folks … rallied around our small businesses” with several special occasions approaching, such as Mother’s Day.
Stewart shared a quote with her DuBois community that’s relevant to the event’s purpose: “Remember, who we buy from now will decide who’s standing later.”
Stewart encouraged people to closely follow the Downtown DuBois, PA Facebook page for the most up-to-date information because this is a “virtual event.”
For more information or questions, please contact Stewart at 814-375-4769 or 814-591-2570 or via e-mail at manager@downtowndubois.com.