We are all stronger and more effective when we work together. That's the inspiration behind a free Business & Community Expo hosted by the Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce and the Elizabethtown Area Chamber of Commerce.

The expo will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 29, at Melhorn Manor, 977 W. Main St., Mount Joy. The collaborative event aims to connect local businesses, organizations and residents, giving attendees a chance to learn about services, build relationships and strengthen the community.

Building on the success of a combined mixer the chambers held earlier this year, Elizabethtown Area Chamber of Commerce executive director Denise Grove and Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce executive director Michele Emenheiser wanted to continue working together for the benefit of Chamber members and the Elizabethtown and Mount Joy communities.

"This expo is a great chance to connect, showcase your business and meet new people," Grove stated. "What makes it even better is teaming up with the Mount Joy Chamber. Working together brings more energy, more opportunities and more excitement for everyone."

The public is invited to attend the expo and engage with more than 40 local businesses and organizations, including nonprofits, health care providers, real estate professionals, banks and restaurants. These businesses and organizations are eager to showcase their offerings and connect with the community, answer questions and offer giveaways and samples, said Emenheiser.

Among the participants is Elizabethtown College. "Elizabethtown College is honored to attend the 2025 Business Expo to foster and cultivate meaningful connections with our local community," shared Christopher D'Imperio, senior director of corporate partnerships. "The immense value these relationships bring to our campus community cannot be understated, and we are looking forward to growing and building onto the success of our community through collaborative efforts as a trusted educational partner for you or your organization."

Melhorn Manor is centrally located, making it easy for residents of both towns to attend the expo, organizers said.

"Melhorn Manor is excited and honored to be a part of this business expo for the Mount Joy and Elizabethtown Chamber of Commerce," said owner Allory Melhorn. "Coming from a long line of Mount Joy business owners in my family and being one myself, I am always happy to help promote small businesses whenever I can. I am grateful for the opportunity to host this event."

Emenheiser encourages residents of both towns to attend. "Whether meeting local businesses or learning about local nonprofits, we hope attendees leave the expo with a deeper appreciation for the people and services that make our towns great places to live, work, play and shop," she said.

For more information on the expo, search for the Mount Joy Area Chamber or the Elizabethtown Area Chamber on Facebook, or visit https://mountjoychamber.com or http://www.elizabethtowncoc.com.