MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE/AMBASSADORS

 

Chair: Shauna Robertson – Virginia Commonwealth Bank

Meets: Third Wednesday of the month, 10:00 AM, YMCA

 

Ambassadors are the lifeblood of this organization! This highly visible committee is often the first to engage new members and current members alike. Ambassadors build lasting relationships with the Chamber membership in order to build ensure value and participation for our members.  Contact someone for more information.

 

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

 

Chair: Ray Ferguson, Real Estate Investor

Meets: Fourth Monday of the month, 2:00 PM, Locations vary

 

This team maintains relationships with elected officials and government agencies while communicating with them about issues of importance to business and membership.  They advocate for and work with The City of Petersburg on making

Petersburg “the best place to do business”. They also organize and coordinate a spring legislative event for membership and coordinate a fall “meet the candidates” event for membership and elected official’s interaction. 

 

EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

 

Chair: TBD

Meets: TBD

 

One strategic priority of The Chamber is to support the school system while building a better-prepared workforce. This group, forming now, will explore the best options for supporting schools and contributing to workforce development discussions and the initiatives for the future. Anyone who wants to see schools and grow and see workforce development conditions improve, you fit here!  Contact someone for more information.

 

WOMEN IN BUSINESS COMMITTEE

 

Chair: Carman Faison, Mitchell Wiggins

Meets: As needed, Chamber Office

 

The Women’s in Business Committee brings together talented professionals, educators, caregivers and entrepreneurs to support each other and the community.  This group provides a unique opportunity for all of us to learn from and support one another, showcase our businesses and touch on topics that are important to our day-to-day lives. Coordinates luncheons in May and November,  Handbag BINGO August/September.  Contact someone for more information.

 

TRI-CITIES YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

 

Chair: Zoe York (Petersburg), Waukeshaw Development

Meets: TBD

 

This newly formed group, in collaboration with Colonial Heights and Hopewell/Prince George Chambers, is dedicated to seeking out opportunities for young professionals to have a voice, build relationships, develop professionally and make an impact in our communities. Contact someone for more information.

 

FESTIVAL OF GRAPES & HOPS COMMITTEE

 

Chair: Eric Crawford, Bank of Southside Virginia

Meets: Monthly from January-July, Bi-Weekly August-September

 

This hard-working bunch plans nearly year-round for our largest signature event, The Festival of Grapes and Hops in September. Always looking for new ideas and skillsets, the committee is responsible for the promotion, direction, and execution of this one and only festival for the region! Contact someone for more information.

 

Poplar Springs Half Marathon, 5K & Kids Fun Run

 

Chair: Kristen Eichert, Poplar Springs Hospital

Meets: Monthly from November-February, Bi-Weekly March-April

 

Come help the community get healthy! This group is tasked with planning and implementing our second largest signature event, which includes avid runners, adults who want to get healthier and outreach to our youth. From lining up sponsors to volunteer recruitment and marketing and promotion, your talents can be put to use in support of our cause. Contact someone for more information.

 

ANNUAL MEETING GALA COMMITTEE

 

Chair: Karl Brack, Columbia Gas

Meets: Monthly from November-February

 

138 years strong, The Annual Dinner Gala is our chance to celebrate Petersburg, our members and promote our achievements as a community during the year.  This committee works to ensure that our event is a true celebration and enjoyable for all. Life of the parties, do apply! Contact someone for more information.