ABOUT THE CHAMBER
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chamber of Commerce? Your chamber of commerce is a voluntary organization of citizens who are investing their time and money in a community development program- working together to improve the economic, civic, and cultural foritude of the region, community, or area. Any citizen who is interested in helping to develop the community is eligible to be a member of the chamber of commerce. The direct benefit is a stronger local economy: more businesses and more jobs with higher salaries and better fringe benefits. The indirect benefits are more public programs, better schools, and less crime. The work of the Chamber is financed by the investments of its members. The dues structure is designed to permit even the smallest business to be a member. The chamber of commerce is guided by a board of directors, chamber members who are business leaders in the area served. When the budget allows, a full-time paid staff and chamber executive will handle the daily operations. What Does a Chamber of Commerce Do? The chamber of commerce is a service institution as well as an action institution. It provides a medium through which people can take effective action for the progress of the community. It helps create job opportunities by stimulating industrial, commercial, and agricultural growth. It seeks the improvements of community facilities, such as streets, highways, parks, and schools. It brings conventions, sales meetings, and tourist activities to the area. It provides the opportunity for members to network with other business leaders and attend business education seminars. In all of these functions, the chamber of commerce is serving as a partner to every business and professional in the community. How Does a Chamber of Commerce Function? The chamber of commerce functions through the working committees of the organization. Money, planning, and inspiration do not fulfill the chamber's mission unless the members work vigorously on the committee of their choice. Careful study is made of the community needs and an action blueprint, the Program of Work, is designed. The goal of the Program of Work is to create more dollars for more people and to improve the economic welfare of the community. Every member has a voice in determining the policies and projects that the chamber undertakes. And every member is needed on active committees to achieve the chamber's goals. Why Should I Be a Member of My Chamber of Commerce? Because the chamber of commerce carries the reputation of being a leader of business integrity in my community, and my affiliation lends my business credibility. Because the chamber of commerce is a close-knit organization in which members support each other's businesses. Because my chamber of commerce has a voice in the legislation that is passed at our state capitol. That legislation directly affects how I am able to conduct business in Texas. I want to have an influence over the legislation that my chamber of commerce endorses. Because the chamber of commerce requires financial support in order to perform its job increasing the economic prosperity of the area which it serves. Because the chamber of commerce unifies the public spirit of my community and directs it into useful and constructive channels that are not limited to business. Because I feel a sense of personal obligation to improve the quality of life in the community which I live. What Are My Responsibilities as a Member? Join a Committee As a member, you have an opportunity to become involved in the numerous committees that help make up this organization, some of which are responsible for helping to organize and host local events. Pay Dues Promptly The Chamber is a not-for-profit organization and relies on the goodwill of its members to pay their dues in a timely fashion. If you should ever have a question about an invoice you receive, please do not hesitate to contact the Chamber.
These events are designed specifically for Chamber members. Remember, members who are active are more likely to receive more out of their membership!
Support your fellow Chamber members by networking, giving referrals, and doing business with them. These are businesses that support the community like you!
Volunteers and committee chairs make up a huge part of the Chamber! If you can volunteer, even just for an hour, please do so.
The Chamber promotes positive business practices and a spirit of community. We hope that as you interact with citizens, visitors, and fellow members that you will infuse others with this same positive attitude.
The Chamber produces a weekly Chamber Corner that appears in the Business Section of the Waxahachie Daily Light on Thursdays, quarterly newsletters, and weekly e-mail blasts in an effort to keep its members informed. Reading these articles will keep you up-to-date and help you maximize your membership investment.
Whether it’s constructive criticism, a pat on the back, or a new idea we want to hear it. Please do not hesitate to contact us and let us know what you think. Stop by our offices, give us a call, or send us an e-mail. Whatever you have to say, we’re all ears. What Happens If My Membership Investment Becomes Delinquent? Per the Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce by-laws, non payment of dues past 90 days will result in membership termination. Members who are not in good standing are not entitled to vote on any question at any meeting of the Chamber or to hold an office. A $50 re-instatement fee will be charged for any business re-joining the Chamber within a year of membership termination.
Information collected from Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives " Why Should I Join My Local Chamber of Commerce?" Copyright 2004
Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce 102 YMCA Drive | Waxahachie, TX 75165 Phone: 972- 937-2390 | Fax: 972-938-9827 | Send Email
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