About Us:

Committees

Administration

Membership is by appointment from the Chairman of the Board and the Executive Director due to the confidential nature of responsibilities, which relate directly to personnel.  In addition to reviewing personnel policy, the committee works with the Executive Director on staffing strategy, which promotes the highest and best quality in an environment scarce on resources, while recognizing the need for professional and well-trained staff members.

Business Development

The mission of this committee is to identify programs and investigate additional means that generate business and opportunities for Chamber members and our immediate community.

Technical Assistance Committee

This committee is responsible for keeping the Chamber aware of construction opportunities in the city and oversees the “Mentor/Protégé” Programs.”

This committee oversees the Annual “Project Awareness” Procurement Conference and the “Bronze Hardhat” Awards Dinner.

Education Committee

Has responsibility for infusing our educational programs with a strong curriculum base, documentation and evaluation tools.  Responsible for developing annual classes based on need as indicated by survey feedback.  Instructors should be professional sin their field, who focus their time and energy on specific subject matters and include handouts.  Classes affiliated with certification and/or colleges or universities may include a cost and may be held on Saturdays and Sundays.

Finance Committee

Chaired by the Treasurer, committee members include the Assistant Treasurer and other Officers of the Board.  This committee has the responsibility for overseeing major financial commitments and capital expenditures of the Chamber and when necessary, makes recommendations to the Board.  Works with the accountant and the Executive Director to prepare the annual budget and annual reports.

Marketing

The Marketing Committee works on marketing tools for the Chamber with the challenge of identifying enough resources to produce good print materials at minimum costs, while identifying and making suggestions on ways to market and enhance the overall image of the Chamber.

Membership

To formulate and follow through on a plan of action that consistently recruits and retains membership.  To identify member services that attracts new members, including hosting monthly membership meetings and recruitment goals.

Nominating

A standing committee needed to fill vacancies year-round.  Responsibility is to identify and nominate potential board members for the annual board meeting, and potential board members who come to our attention between elections, and to bring those potential candidates before the board.

Legislative Issues and The Political Action Committee (PAC)

The PAC places the Chamber in a position of strength by financially supporting our politicians and elected officials, supportive of Chamber initiatives and issues.  Acts as the official lobbyist on behalf of the Chamber and seeks corporate contributions to support the PAC.

Reviews legislative issues pertinent to minority and small businesses while staying current on affirmative action initiatives statewide.  Recommends actions or positions on legislation, regulations, and other public policy matters affecting the membership and minority community at large.  Authors white papers on behalf of the Chamber.

This committee oversees the Annual Legislative Reception held in Springfield and other political fundraisers.

Resource Development

This committee is responsible for planning strategies to increase the funding base, through increased corporate support of the Chamber.  And is also responsible for identifying potential underwriters that may sponsor other events or marketing efforts.

This committee oversees the Annual “Evening With Friends” Awards Gala.

Technology Committee

This committee is charged with taking the Chamber into the 21st century information age and beyond, while taking the lead in keeping its members and others, updated about the latest e-commerce technology.  Makes recommendations to the Executive Director on up-grading its computer equipment and technology and computer classes.  Supports the Chamber as needed in writing its technology initiatives and technology presentations.

This committee oversees the Annual Technology Conference.

Trade and Export Committee

This committee is charged with keeping the Chamber and it’s members aware of International Trade and Export Opportunities.

This committee oversees the Annual International Trade and Export Conference.

Additional Chamber Resources

Radio Show

The “Business Building Business” program has been on WGCI radio for twelve years.  This is a resource that should not be underestimated, especially as a marketing venue for the Chamber and its membership.  This half hour program airs on 1390 AM every Saturday Morning at 6:30 a.m.

Community Access TV (CAN TV)

Currently the Chamber hosts its weekly business format cable television program during the evening hours.  The program alternately runs thirteen (13) weeks on air, and thirteen weeks off.  This is an excellent resource for the Chamber and its members and the taped programs can also be used as a training tool for the educational classes.