Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce – Nurturing Local Businesses and Amplifying Community Impact
ELIZABETHTON – The Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce, since relocating to 615 E. Elk Ave. in Downtown Elizabethton, has invested in developing valuable programs for both its members and the entire community.
Executive director Joy McCray ensures a seamless coordination between the chamber, the board of directors and board president Kathy Campbell of Northeast Community Credit Union. McCray ensures her work aligns also with the local governments of Carter County, the city of Elizabethton, and the city of Watauga, along with neighboring Chambers in the region.
The annual legislative breakfast, sponsored by the Chamber, provides an engaging platform to know about current issues being addressed by local and state government leaders. This event successfully draws attendees from U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, local members of the Tennessee General Assembly, city, and county mayors, among other local leaders.
Strengthening Inter-chamber Relationships
The spring event, known as Tweetsie Tee Off, symbolizes the robust ties between Elizabethton Chamber and the Chamber of Commerce of Johnson City, Jonesborough, and Washington County. Scheduled for April 25 at Pine Oaks Golf Course in Johnson City, the event aims to enhance inter-chamber collaboration.
A few weeks post this event, the annual Joint Membership Breakfast will be conducted at the Milligan University cafeteria which is open to all members of both chambers.
Women Empowerment and Networking- A Priority
The 6th Annual BOSS Lady Conference, scheduled two days after the breakfast event, is focused on fostering networking among women. BOSS (Building Our Strengths for Success) Lady is designed to bring together women of all ages and career stages to share ideas, gain confidence, and network.
Supporting Local Produce and Early-stage Businesses
During summer, the Chamber aids the Elizabethton Farmers Market through SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) and EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) services, a sign of their unwavering support for local produce.
Furthermore, the chamber organizes business retreats for new businesses that are in their first 24 months of operation. It allows them to leverage the chamber’s vast network and deep understanding of the local business climate.
Educational Programs and Future Leadership
The Chamber’s Non-Profit Connect aids non-profit organizations via its strategic planning sessions and budgeting workshops. Similarly, the Chamber Youth Ambassador program allows participating high school juniors and seniors to gain industry experiences through programs and demonstrations in industry, healthcare, tourism, and the community.
Executive Director McCray mentioned the upcoming Connect Leadership program on Sept. 13, with keynote speaker Jerry Caldwell, president of Bristol Motor Speedway. This event is expected to further the chamber’s goal of guiding the community’s future leaders.
From collaborating with neighboring chambers to supporting local markets and empowering women, Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce’s multi-pronged efforts make it not just an association of businesses, but an organization deeply embedded in the community’s development.
