The Discover SGF program continues to expand with the addition of the 10th video in the series. The most recent video, produced in cooperation with the Division of Diversity & Inclusion at Missouri State University, tackles the important topic of diversity and inclusion and the important role it plays in a healthy economy and quality of life for Springfield.

Discover SGF is a free video-based educational program designed to teach residents and frontline employees at tourism-related businesses about things to see and do in the city and how to interact with visitors so they’re likely to return in the future and give the city good reviews as a travel destination. There is no cost for participants to enroll in the program.

Discover SGF includes videos at www.DiscoverSGF.com along with tests that ensure the participant viewed the videos and absorbed the information.  The CVB also is offering incentives for participants enrolling in the program.

• After completion of 6 courses, receive a Discover Springfield Hospitality Pass offering free admission into participating attractions.
• After completion of 10 courses, earn your Springfield Hospitality Professional Certification.
• Upon receipt of your certification, Springfield swag can be purchased at the Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center at a discount.

So far, nearly 450 people have enrolled in the program and the CVB hopes to increase enrollment significantly this year.

The Ramada Plaza Hotel & Convention Center has the highest number of Discover SGF participants in the city.

Missy Handyside, general manager at the hotel said she encourages employees to participate because the program can help drive repeat business to the city.

“Discover SGF is an awesome tool for our frontline associates,” Handyside said. “It provides us with valuable information about Springfield’s attractions, culture and history that we can share with our guests in hopes that it will make their overall experience more enjoyable. We hope to provide the guest with so many things to do that they will want to return to Springfield when planning their next trip. The Discover SGF program is one of, if not the best, resources we have to promote what our city has to offer visitors.”

The CVB is a non-profit marketing organization dedicated to boosting the local economy through programs that grow travel and tourism in Springfield and the surrounding area.

For more information about enrolling in the program, call the CVB at 417-881-5300 or email Abby Terhark at discoversgf@springfieldmo.org.