Montana Holistic Chamber of Commerce minutes

To: Members of Montana Holistic Chamber of Commerce

From: Barbara Thomas, Secretary, on behalf of the Directors

Subject: Issues and Discussion, MtHCC, June 30, 2010 Board meeting

[Update (text below) is also attached as a Word file.]

We ask members to give us their ideas, opinions and feelings about the options identified at the meeting and about any other options they might think of. Possibly all three options could and may happen.

Update: Montana Holistic Chamber of Commerce


Directors and officers of the proposed Montana Holistic Chamber of Commerce met in Helena at 9:00 a.m. on June 30, 2010. Present were Directors Barda Allen (Chair), Will Michael and Carol Wilcock, Treasurer Linda Wilson, Secretary Barb Thomas, and Mike Thomas. Carol Wilcock led the discussion.


Issue: This is the first meeting since the October 2009 first annual meeting. Paid members have expressed disappointment that no communication has come from the organization in the ensuing months.


Discussion: Initial enthusiasm to generate a state Holistic Chamber of Commerce has waned. Those in leadership positions realize the extent of commitment to pursue the proposed programs in education, events and outreach. With nine members, the proposed MtHCC appears to lack the manpower to pursue its mission.


Established mainstream Chambers of Commerce (example: Helena Area Chamber of Commerce) offer networking and enrichment opportunities we as an organization are not able to emulate at this time. Many Chambers recognize a Holistic component within their organizations. Perhaps we should look into integrating within the mainstream organizations rather than seeking to be separate.


Action Options: Looking to resolve the issue of providing benefit for MTHCC members, options were discussed to help us move forward.


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Become an association that strengthens and broadens our existing Chambers of Commerce (local and state).

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Maintain a listing /network that would meet and greet annually, possibly sponsor events or pursue a Guild. Email would be the medium of notification.


Recommendation: Three options


1.

Dismantle the organization and return funds. (Expenses to date include legal review fee, post office box and checking account supplies)

2.

Reconfigure the organization into a network with an annual social event

3.

Integrate into local Chamber of Commerce with the opportunity to educate the business community and get to know ourselves better


Action Items: All current members are asked to reply to this email by the end of July, 2010, indicating first choice of the three options recommended at this meeting.


The Board will meet again in Helena at 2001 11th Avenue on Friday, September 17, 2010, at 9:00 a.m. To assess the response and determine the outcome. All members are invited to attend.


Submitted by Barbara Thomas

July 1, 2010