Chamber President,
Charlotte Fitzgerald
2024 - Decatur Chamber Of commerce
Dear Valued Chamber Members and Prospective Members -
“We ARE Decatur.” This is a phrase I see and hear our school district use daily. Growing up in Decatur, graduating from the wonderful Decatur school district, raising my children in Decatur and now contributing to the community as a business partner has given me the fortunate ability to watch the growth and change that our town and community has experienced over the years. Now more than ever we must embrace “We ARE Decatur” and come together to tackle the upcoming challenges that face our community. We are rapidly growing! As business leaders we must plan, pivot when needed and respond to the needs of our community.
My goal as the 2024 president of the Chamber of Commerce is to show our community that we are engaged and ready to support and promote Decatur more than ever. Our community is not a collection of individuals; it is a vibrant ecosystem where businesses, residents, and organizations intertwine. Through active community engagement, we not only foster a sense of belonging but also create a foundation for sustainable growth.
The Decatur Chamber of Commerce believes in the following values of community engagement:
Networking and Collaboration- Community engagement provides a platform for businesses to connect, collaborate, and share ideas. Networking not only enhances individual enterprises but contributes to the overall vitality of our community. We will be hosting mixers and exclusive chamber events in 2024 in hopes of bringing chamber members and community members together more frequently.
Strengthening the Local Economy- A thriving community is built on the success of its businesses. By actively engaging with the community, the Chamber contributes to the growth of local businesses which in turn leads to a robust and resilient economy. In 2023 the Decatur Chamber of Commerce added more new memberships than ever before. This due to our wonderful community and the support shown to local businesses.
Enhancing the Quality of Life- Community engagement goes beyond business interactions. True engagement includes supporting local events, initiatives, and projects that enhance the overall quality of life for residents. A vibrant community is one where everyone feels connected and invested in its well-being. The Decatur Chamber of Commerce hosts 3 major events a year to provide you the opportunity to be involved and to show the Wise County Community the meaning of “We Are Decatur.”
Attracting Investment and Talent- An engaged community is attractive to investors and skilled professionals. As Chamber members actively participate and contribute to community development, we continue to create an environment that not only retains local talent but also attracts new opportunities and investments.
Fostering a Positive Image- A chamber of commerce engaged in community affairs projects a positive image. This not only strengthens our relationships with existing members but also attracts new businesses and residents who seek to be part of a community that values collaboration and mutual support.
Considering our community’s future of projected rapid growth, let us as Chamber members recognize the immense value that active engagement brings. By working together, we will ensure that our Decatur Chamber of Commerce remains a driving force in the prosperity and well-being of our community.
Thank you for your continued dedication to our shared success.
