Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce Councils & Committees

Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce Councils & Committees

The Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce has Ambassadors, Education Council, and 3 Committees to address the needs of the Chamber and our members.

Participation on these is open to all members and we encourage our members to be active in the areas that interest you.

Volunteering is a way of learning more about what is happening in town, giving back to the community, and getting to know other Chamber members. This is a great way to grow and market your business/organization as you continue to build relationships within our community!

Ambassadors

Chair: JB Ratledge

The Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce works closely with our Ambassador Team since we are staff of two. This team is comprised of local business leaders and organizations in our community that are active members of our Chamber of Commerce. They meet monthly and are charged to connect with our members at our events such as Ribbon Cuttings, Business Exchange Breakfasts, and Business After Hours. We ask that you be an active member of the Chamber for a few months before looking into joining the team so you can see what is expected and learn more about the Chamber. This is a great way to volunteer and grow your business/organization.

If you are interested in being on the Ambassador Team, we ask that you connect with our Membership Director Christie Cook first and she can help guide you and answer questions.   

Education Council

Chair: Wanda Denning

The Education Council serves as a clearinghouse of information regarding educational issues in our area and facilitates a vital relationship between Fuquay-Varina’s schools and community businesses. The Education Council works to ensure that achievements in local education receive the support and recognition they deserve. By capturing the energies and capabilities within our community, we will actively connect young people with the resources they need to lead healthier and more productive lives.

 

Membership Committee

Chair: Mary Elizabeth Twiddy

The Membership Committee is dedicated to engaging and retaining current members while attracting new ones, strengthening the Chamber’s value and visibility in the community. By fostering connections, promoting understanding of the Chamber’s role, and celebrating both long-standing and emerging businesses, the committee supports a vibrant, inclusive membership base and advances the Chamber as a trusted connector, advocate, and driver of local economic growth.

Partnership Committee

Chair: Beth Anderson

The Partnership Committee focuses on building and strengthening relationships that advance the community and local economy. This includes advocating for business interests through government affairs and economic development initiatives, organizing signature events such as the First Responder’s Luncheon and Senior Services Expo, collaborating with educational institutions via the Education Council, and supporting entrepreneurs through the Launch FV program.

Government Affairs Committee

Chair: Beth Anderson

  • Policy Research and Analysis: Conduct research and analysis on relevant policies, legislation, and regulations that impact the community. Offer information sessions to help local businesses understand how these policies may impact them or bring subject matter expertise to guide them.
  • Legislative Advocacy: Develop relationships with lawmakers and policymakers at various levels of government. Engage in advocacy efforts when relevant.
  • Issue Monitoring: Stay informed about emerging issues, trends, and developments that may affect the community. Monitor legislative agendas, committee hearings, and public consultations to identify potential risks and opportunities.
  • Coalition Building: Collaborate with other organizations, industry associations, and stakeholders to form coalitions and amplify collective voices on shared policy priorities. Build consensus and work together to advocate for common goals.
  • Public Affairs and Outreach: Develop communication strategies to effectively engage with the public, media, and other stakeholders. Organize events, workshops, and informational campaigns to raise awareness about important issues and foster dialogue.
  • Political Awareness: Establish a framework for political engagement with political candidates and parties, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and ethical standards. Host candidate forums to assist in community awareness.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Foster relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, business owners, and industry peers. Seek their input, address concerns, and collaborate on initiatives that promote mutual understanding and benefit. (Multi-generational plan)
  • Grassroots Mobilization: Develop grassroots advocacy programs to mobilize volunteers, business owners, and supporters to actively engage in advocacy efforts. Provide them with tools, resources, and training to effectively communicate with policymakers and advocate for the community, where appropriate. (example: a town commons)

Contact Us

The Fuquay-Varina Chamber brings so many opportunities and benefits to you!

We are here to Connect, Advocate, and Grow Your Business.

Drop in or call us anytime to learn more about why 480+ members choose the Fuquay-Varina Chamber and how we can help your business today.