Editor's Note: The following is the message newly installed Southeast Volusia Chamber of Commerce President Sue Williams wrote in the 1st quarterly newsletter to the membership:
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Dear Members, I would like to thank my fellow Chamber members for presenting me with this opportunity to serve as Chamber President for 2010. I feel humbled, honored, grateful, and extremely excited to serve on your behalf in 2010. It is my purpose to serve the greater good by bringing people and resources together to create value that no single person can build alone.
We have called ourselves the Chamber of Commerce for over a three quarters of a century, but in 2010, it is my recommendation that we consider this moniker as we continue to face an uncertain economy………………… THE CHAMBER OF COURAGE!
It will take courage to create an economic development plan for the cities in Southeast Volusia – we are doing it. It will take courage to test new programs and benefits for our members. This is our job. Let’s do it.
It will take courage to adjust our structures to keep and encourage new members. Let’s do it. It will take courage to raise funds like never before, let’s do it. Confidence is the number #1 tool to a down economy.
Let’s face it, in this adverse economy every business will have to do more with less. Our members want and need help doing this.
This is our chance to focus on educational seminars on efficiency, image and production. Our business community needs us more than ever in these times of change.
Change is the key that unlocks the door to growth and excitement in any organization. Keeping change alive starts with rewarding innovation, risk taking and creativity. This is our opportunity to plan our changes, implement our plan quickly, before this window of opportunity fades.
Here is the good news: During our retreat in October, we started the process of planning our program of work for 2010. Since the retreat, courageous and dedicated volunteers have been working on a blue print plan for Membership, Fund raising, Economic Development, Education, and Special Events.
It’s time to circle the wagons, start meeting with members and non-members alike, facilitate their input to get their ideas on the table and develop a plan for implementation. We can’t be sure when and where great ideas will appear but by creating a campaign like this we can be sure that we will be recognized as the center for our business community.
We have to be the organization that is fighting for the answers until we find them. As the President of the SEV chamber of Commerce, I am calling on each and every one of you to serve the greater good by bringing people and resources together to create value that no single person can build alone.
I am calling on you to positively respond to my request to offer your assistance, and serve to the best of your ability, and take initiative as a willing partner as a stakeholder in the Southeast Volusia Chamber of Commerce. In 2010 set your fears aside and be a Chamber of Courage.
Happy New Year!
Sue Williams
President Southeast Volusia Chamber of Commerce