What does value mean to you?

As a business organization, this question pops up a lot. And as a local “Chamber of Commerce,” it means different things to different people.

In order for us to continue to serve our mission, we have to constantly evaluate the programs we provide to our members.

We do this by surveying the members on their needs to gauge their thoughts on programs and offerings to help improve their business success.   

We realize there is no such thing as a “one size fit all” when it comes to providing “value-added” service.

Small businesses want to grow their business. They want opportunities to network and meet new people so they can build relationships that can hopefully lead to future business.

Larger businesses want advocacy. The Chamber of Commerce is sort of viewed as insurance. We are here when they need us, in the event of non-business friendly legislation for example.

Our Public Policy committee serves as the legislative watchdogs to keep abreast of anything from local, state to federal issues that may have an impact on the business climate in the River Parishes.

Needless to say, we need to be creative when planning the work for the year by making sure we are touching upon the different needs of the different markets of business.

The Board has finalized the 2019 Goals below.

For starters, the Mission and Vision statements have been revised.

Stay tuned for an official launch of this new verbiage in the coming months. Our Core Values will remain the same: to build coalitions, serve as the voice of all businesses and provide business support and value to the members.

• Increase membership by 10%

• Increase revenues by 10%

• Maintain 85% Retention

• Expand Workforce Development Efforts in the Region

None of the above will be able to be done without the work of committed volunteers.

We are excited to have the following individuals serving as Committee Chairs this year:

• Bub Millet – East Jefferson General Hospital, Public Policy

• Mike Palamone – Urban Systems Associates, Workforce Development

• Ray Grubbs – Express Employment Professionals, Ambassadors

• Jonathan Menard – St. Charles Herald Guide, Communications

• Katie Klibert – RTC, Business Development

• Gloria Trahan – First National Bank USA, Finance

• Rachel Mizell – C&D Plumbing & Mechanical LLC, Crawfish Boil

• Rusty Rebowe – Apache Industrial, Golf Tournament

As we celebrate 15 years of serving as the voice of the region, preparations are in the works to plan a special celebration event Tentative date will be June 2019.

Stay tuned for more details forthcoming.

While our mission to “Grow, Strengthen and Unify businesses in St. James, St. John and St. Charles parishes” remains strong and steadfast in support, the parameters of regional vision remain constant to ensure we stay at the forefront of opportunity.

Looking forward to sharing updates with you as we move forward into the new year.

Chassity McComack is executive director of the River Region Chamber of Commerce. Email her at Chassity@riverregionchamber.org or log onto riverregionchamber.org.