Clarksburg Chamber of Commerce Re-Invents Itself
The Clarsksburg Chamber of Commerce has announced the renaissance of the organization with the induction of five new board members and one returning board member.
At the member meeting in early January, the board members inducted by past board member, Joe Buffington included: President: Ibi Teleki Sofillas, MyRealtyTeam Real Estate, LLC, Vice President: Lynne Kingsley, BlackRock Center for the Arts, Treasurer: Visa Shanmugan, Rodan and Fields, Secretary: Greg Gosnell, AMR Commercial, LLC, At-Large Board Member: Jim Casey, Wells Fargo, and At-Large Board Member: Juliet Mandler, Everyday Events.
Though still in its early days, a renewed energy emerged among the chamber and its members. Meetings prior to October 2015 hosted approximately 10-12 members, whereas the meeting on January 6, saw nearly 50 members of the Clarksburg business community engaged and ready to connect, according to a press release from the organization.
The release stated that since the induction, the new board of directors has made several major accomplishments, including creating a new logo, committee re-structuring, improving the member application, and installing a brand-new interactive member engagement software. Plans for outreach to over 100 Clarksburg businesses are underway. In addition, the new board has launched a brand new website designed to help the business community connect with one another.
According to Clarksburg Chamber Board President Ibi Teleki Sofillas, “The Clarksburg area is one of the fastest growing regions in Maryland, local businesses will need support and opportunities to keep up with that growth. Our goal is not only to welcome new members as the region grows, but also support the longtime local companies to grow and thrive through programs ranging from business development to publicity to networking. The first step is to create a solid foundation for a business-led chamber, so growth is productive and then we can take an active role in making Clarksburg one of the best places to work, live and visit.”
Longtime Clarksburg business owner and resident, Ann Myers of The Myers Team at RE/MAX Realty Services, said, “Clarksburg Chamber of Commerce is a great place to connect with other business owners, hear about the latest developments in Clarksburg and market your services to others.”
Businesses receive a variety of benefits when they become members of the Clarksburg Chamber of Commerce, including:
• Visibility: Opportunities to expose members’ businesses to a wide audience of contacts, decision makers and individuals.
• Networking Events: Over 24 regularly scheduled events each year (more to come).
• Brand Alignment: Membership to a Chamber tends to increase a business’s image among consumers, as well as other businesses.
• Resources: The CCC website provides a current calendar of events, RSVP capabilities, and an online searchable directory. The directory also includes a hyperlink to member sites.
• Ribbon-Cuttings: New businesses can gain exposure and press through these ceremonies.
• Community Involvement: The CCC is involved with various aspects of the community, including the City Government, County Council, schools, and charitable organizations.
Caption:
Newly inducted CCC Board of Directors from left: Greg Gosnell, Lynne Kingsley, Jim Casey, Visa Shanmugan, Juliet Mandler, Ibi Teleki Sofillas, and past board member Joe Buffington.
Photo Credit: Fred Levy