Since the beginning of 2015, Van and I have written of personal goal setting, effectively leveraging the talent available to you within our organization, our advocacy activities, the cornerstones of the Chamber's strategic plan and the myriad of events we are monitoring as part of our partnership with City Hall.  Additionally, Van reiterated our mission of "promoting a strong economy and quality of life" in the community we serve. Although quite a formidable list of activities, I never cease to be impressed by the commitment of our member volunteers and the "above & beyond" effort expended to ensure the success of our organization.

Earlier this week, we packed the Chamber conference room with volunteer committee leaders, board members, ambassadors, and staff. Each of them spoke passionately about their charge, as well as the accomplishments and challenges they were encountering within their respective groups. As each person told their story, you could feel the energy level and sense of accomplishment rising in the room.  

Below are just a few excerpts to give you a taste:

Business Social Hour - 2015 is fully booked, and scheduling into mid 2016

Economic Development - More topics & speakers than can be scheduled in the next year, attendance is up, member participation increasing, venue and food are great!

Good Neighbor Festival - Volunteers and opportunities increasing, attendance is up, new events this year, maybe even adding daycare for the 5K race.

Golf Outing - Set for July 15th - Sponsor participation already higher than last year, new ideas: Par 3: "foot golf", morning yoga, bean bags tournament? 

Ambassadors - Updated committee structure, new venue for monthly meetings, more opportunities for ambassadors to network and tell their own story, 35+ active ambassadors reaching out to member businesses and engaging in Chamber activities. 

Annual Celebration - Exceptional comments about sponsors and food providers, attendance was solid even though Bucky was live at the Kohl Center that night, new venue layout was a success, "I want more time to view silent auction items"...many new ideas for 2016!

Ask the Expert - Sessions added for 2015, schedule is published and online, attendance is up, attendee satisfaction is 97.9%.

Get Moving Middleton -Attendance record (197) in February, networking/connecting ratios up, Monthly Sponsorship opportunities scheduling into mid-2016.

If that wasn't enough, each of the strategic group leaders (Connecting Talent to Business, Virtual Chamber Access, Work/Life Blend, and Macro to Micro) provided an update on their strategic goals and the initiatives they are piloting based on  member feedback.

Ninety minutes later, after everybody left the room, I could only think of how proud I am of the volunteers and sponsors who are so passionate to support our mission. Their engagement and enthusiasm is what truly distinguish this member-led organization. Thank you again for all that you do and your continued commitment-it will never go unnoticed!

If you would like to learn more about committees and how you might participate, follow this link or contact Lisa DuChateau.