The Green Bay Packers today announced that this year's Welcome Back Packers Luncheon celebrated the final chapter for the joint event with the Greater Green Bay Chamber, with the format of the luncheon set to change beginning next year.
Since the 1960s, the luncheon has brought together business leaders, community members and Packers fans for a special gathering with Packers players, coaches and staff as an opportunity to honor the Packers as an economic asset. It also served to raise money for Greater Green Bay Chamber programs through a community event designed to provide an exciting kickoff to the Packers' season.
"The Welcome Back Packers Luncheon is an incredible event with nearly 1,200 guests in attendance this year," said Cathy Dworak, Packers director of community outreach & player/alumni relations. "We're grateful for our partnership with the Chamber and for their dedication to this event over the years. We look forward to continuing to support the organization and its key role in the community of strengthening member businesses, enhancing economic and workforce development, and improving the quality of life in the Greater Green Bay area."
Moving forward, the Packers will lead the annual Welcome Back luncheon event under an evolved format designed to engage a broader range of nonprofit and community organizations throughout northeast Wisconsin. Full details will be announced at a later date.
The Packers will continue the organization's support of the Chamber and its mission through a variety of ongoing events and programs, including the Greater Green Bay Chamber Foundation, economic growth and talent initiatives, annual business community events and the Chamber Young Professionals program.
"We are incredibly grateful for the 60 years of partnership with the Green Bay Packers and for them entrusting us with the Welcome Back Packers Luncheon. It has been an honor to recognize and celebrate the contributions of the Packers organization on our community," said Lara Fritts, president and CEO of the Greater Green Bay Chamber. "While this chapter of the luncheon is coming to a close, our relationship with the Packers is not. We're looking forward to building on this longstanding partnership in new ways that continue to support our members, strengthen our community and create opportunities for Greater Green Bay to thrive."
