You have heard me talk about this for more than four years. Yes, that's four years! Some things take time and planning to do correctly. Well, it took some time but we believe we have done a lot of things right so the next step can be done correctly as well.
We have built a strong foundation - transitioning to the proper organization type/tax status, improved systems and processes, developed a more robust online presence and member listing, recruited strong leadership, added member benefits, a changed to a new format based on what our members want.
With your support of the very successful, annual fashion show, Unpredictable, fund raising has been strong and we have been diligent to manage those funds responsibly. We have established additional levels of investment and membership in the Chamber; adding 27 small business and corporate partners in addition to our normal 100 or so individual members. Now, the time is upon us to take another big step; some would say a bold step.
The leadership of your Chamber believe that we can do more but our potential cannot be fully attained by operating forever as a volunteer organization. Opportunities abound for the Chamber to engage our community and the larger community. We must increase our visibility and participation if we are to grow and if we are to have influence.
We believe the next logical step is to employ someone dedicated to growth and development. With your support and involvement, we believe we can do this in fairly short order. One thing we do know is that we do need you. When and how we take this next step hinges largely on number of members. Can we attain the numbers needed to make this new hire? I believe we can.
Joey Leslie, our executive assistant, is calling on lapsed members now and asking for you to join us again. Our current members will be asked to rejoin in October. Whether now or October, I hope your answer will be yes! YES to joining us as we move the Chamber forward by attaining this goal in the short term rather than delay.
This is an exciting time to be a part of the Chamber! Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to seeing you at one of our mixers soon!
Yours,
John Wade, Chair and President
NGLBTCC