For 20 years, tourists, travelers, and explorers of all backgrounds have had a guiding network of trained professionals to help them discover what the best communities around the nation have to offer. This network of over 60,000 people are part of the Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA) program, which was founded in May 2006. The program is the only international, industry-recognized certification that unites communities to provide local and out-of-town tourists with the information they need to fully enjoy these towns and cities.
Locally, Explore Flint & Genesee manages a CTA program that has been providing people with invaluable information and tips about the area for over 10 years. Recently, the local CVB has instituted a “Blue Star” designation for organizations that have at least 50% of their employees who are CTAs.
CTAs come from all walks of life, from retirees looking to continue the impact they have on their community, professionals who work with visitors to the area daily, and people who want to expand their understanding and appreciation of the area. To find out what the CTA program means to these Flint & Genesee professionals, you need only ask them:
Crystal Dillard, project coordinator, McLaren Health Plan:
“It’s nice to be able to be the boots on the ground people to help shape a more positive story. That I think is the best part.”
Birdie Brooks, retiree:
“I love giving back to the community.”
Terry Pickard, commercial consultant, SERVPRO:
“I like sharing my knowledge with others who might not be from the area or other CTAs who may not have the experience I have.”
Jacky Metcalfe, visitor & operations manager, Flint Children’s Museum:
“Being able to share the love of this community with others and also encourage other people in the community to take the CTA training so that they can also be able to share information about the local attractions and restaurants, and everything that's going on. I love that the CTA program is a collaboration between different organizations; it's really vital to the area.”
Anthony Walter, parks operations manager, Genesee County Parks:
“I think it’s an honor to be a CTA in Genesee County. My favorite part has been the relationships I have built in the community, sharing information that people generally don't know about in Genesee and the Flint area.”
The CTA program nationally, and in Flint & Genesee, unites the community and its love for the attractions, foods, and flavors of the area. After 20 years nationally, and more than 10 years of the program locally, things are only getting better. To learn more about the program and how you can get involved, visit: https://www.exploreflintandgenesee.org/about-us/cta/.
