Last week I began writing a series of articles focused on increasing awareness of the various roles and responsibilities of the Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce.

In my first article I gave an overview of the basic structure and purpose of our organization. This week I will continue with the series by going into detail about our mission, goals and some of our duties.

The mission for the Chamber of Commerce is to provide leadership and coordination for the advancement of economic vitality and quality of life for the total community. In pursuing this mission, we will always strive to demonstrate sensitivity and responsiveness to the needs and concerns of the people of Demopolis and Marengo County.

Our goals are determined each year by our Board of Directors.

This board typically meets in December to layout our ‘Program of Work’ for the upcoming year.

The Program of Work consists of the projects, events and activities that the Chamber will be involved in for the coming year.

This list includes items such as Sax in the City, Saturday Walking Tours, Chamber Breakfasts, Freedom on the River, Leadership Marengo, Chamber After-hours, National Tourism Week events, Retail Seminars, River City Rumble, Christmas on the River, fundraisers, etc…

Each year the Program of Work is a little different from the year before. It is shaped to fit the needs and desires of the community based on current and upcoming situations, trends and events. Each item on the Program of Work is placed there because of its relevance to furthering the mission of the Chamber.

In addition to the Program of Work there are a number of daily duties that are common to any Chamber of Commerce. We disseminate valuable information about our community including maps, member directories, postcards, event brochures, community profiles, visitor guides, newcomer information, real estate information, shopping information and so much more.

We answer numerous phone calls everyday asking for recommendations in different areas of business.

We also provide such community services as keeping a general Community Calendar, we maintain the fishing tournament schedule for the City Landing, and we act as a general information clearinghouse. We are the one constant source of information whose job is to promote the community and market our businesses.

I hope that this brief explanation of our mission provides a better understanding of our motives and goals. Next week I plan to discuss events, schedules, activities and partnerships of the Chamber. As always, please contact me if I can answer any questions regarding the Chamber’s mission and goals.

-Kelley Smith is President of the Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce.

She can be reached by calling (334) 289-0270.