As we soak up the sun this summer, our minds are also on growth and development. It is the time of year when kids are at sports camps developing their skills, at church camps growing their faith, Boy and Girl Scout camps learning about service, evolving art camps, and attending camps for underprivileged and special needs children. With over 12,000 summer camps across the United States, it can be daunting for parents to vet and select the best camp for our kiddos. All these camps are geared to further a child’s learning experience, knowledge or development of their skills.
Similarly, as Chamber Professionals and Staff, we had an opportunity for growth and development at the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives (TCCE) Annual Conference in Galveston, held June 23-26. It was a joy to connect with colleagues and delve into the latest in our industry. I hope the cover photo demonstrates the pleasure of being with our peers.
Conferences are a goldmine of ideas. Personally, I always leave with a flurry of new strategies and action items inspired by keynote speakers and individual breakout sessions. It is invigorating to be among peers, brainstorming ways to enhance our Chambers and support our local economies. I find things I want to implement at my own Chamber, learn of ways to improve our existing programs, and am energized by being around other professionals in my industry. I must remind myself - Rome wasn’t built in a day; take things one step at a time.
One standout lesson from the conference was: “The Chamber of Commerce in a community is the most trusted source for information on businesses and services.” This reflects our commitment at the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce. We tirelessly work
to strengthen our local business community through our educational opportunities, legislative updates, and robust promotion via our website and Community Guide. Your trust is our daily motivation.
Another eye-opener was realizing that businesses looking to relocate often start by exploring a Chamber’s website first. Site selectors look at what a local Chamber is doing in the community, their initiatives, and engagement, before they look at a school district and workforce availability. For this reason, I am so very proud to announce that your Bastrop Chamber of Commerce won 1st Place for our Website, www.bastropchamber.com in our Budget Category at the TCCE Annual Conference in Galveston! For businesses, the Online Marketing Efforts of a Chamber of Commerce website pays greatest dividends. Remember, we just won 1st Place for our website?!? This is why this statement is true:
1. Online Chamber Website Directory – Our website serves as a beacon for newcomers seeking local goods and services - remember that part about being “the most trusted source of information on businesses and services?” Our community is growing, new residents are moving here by truck loads, and they are looking for an orthodontist for their kids, someone to mow their yard and do maintenance, furniture to decorate a home, and anything else associated with their needs.
2. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) – Data shows that having your URL on a Chamber website will boost your company’s website SEO and your ability to be found on the internet. Thanks to the reputable standing with search engines like Google and BING recognize, Chamber members benefit. Your company website is going to rank higher due to being listed
on our Bastrop Chamber website.
3. Networking – Moreover, our networking events offer invaluable opportunities to expand your brand. People will begin to “Friend” you on Facebook and follow your company on social media platforms. You will begin to see more views online through your website and grow your business organically. It is a slow process, but it takes time to build trust.
I know I want to continue to grow our Chamber and network of professional businesses. In today’s dynamic world, continuous learning is key to staying relevant. I am grateful to serve a Chamber with a Board of Directors that prioritizes professional development in our budget annually. Our commitment to you, our members, drives us to bring back the latest insights and innovations to benefit your businesses!
For more information our initiatives and upcoming programming, check out our “Award Winner” website, www.bastropchamber.com. We love visitors to our office as well. Stop by our office at 927 Main in the heart of Downtown Bastrop Monday-Thursday 8am-4pm or Fri-
day 8am to noon. “Like” us on Facebook and our other social media platforms.
Here’s to a Bigger Better Bastrop for all,
Becki Womble, CCE, IOM President/CEO Bastrop Chamber of Commerce
Dear Members, Community Partners, and Stakeholders,
As we reach the mid-year mark, we reflect on the significant achievements and initiative undertaken by your Bastrop Chamber of Commerce.
Four-Star Accreditation with the US Chamber of Commerce
We are immensely proud of our Four-Star Accreditation received last November, a testament to our commitment to excellence. We are one of 199 Chambers of 7000 in the Untied States with accreditation. This process has been transformational for the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce. The leadership of the Chamber in Becki Womble, the Board and the rest of the staff only want the BEST and be the BEST of class. For this reason, we have been working this year on the areas of improvement that were identified by the US Chamber of Commerce. We plan on re-applying in March of 2025. This accreditation will further solidify our reputation as a leading Chamber of Commerce with our anticipation of Five-Star Accreditation.
Chamber Foundation of Bastrop County
The establishment of the Chamber Foundation of Bastrop County stands as another milestone. This foundation allows us to expand our community outreach and foster economic growth through initiatives like Lemonade Day – Bastrop Regional and the B.E.S.T. Leadership Program. By moving these
programs under the foundation, we open doors to additional grant funding opportunities that will further benefit our community’s economic, civic, cultural, and social welfare.
The goals of this foundation include providing education and development of Bastrop County’s economic, civic, cultural, and social welfare. By promoting economic development and supporting local initiatives, this will create an even more vibrant and prosperous business environment in our region. In May, we implemented a voluntary $50 donation to the Foundation on your Chamber-versary month. These donations are tax-deductible and will provide initial funding for the Foundation.
Lemonade Day – Bastrop Regional
Speaking of Lemonade Day, our inaugural event was held on Saturday, May 4. This program teaches financial literacy but also cultivates entrepreneurship among youth. We engaged 86 children go through the program and 23 charted Lemonade Stands across the city and county. Students reported their business results and awards were given for Best Lemonade Stand, Entrepreneur of the Year, Best Tasting Lemonade, Most Creative Lemonade, Most Charitable, and Highest Profit. We cannot thank our amazing volunteers, the Bastrop ISD and City of Bastrop enough or all their help and support. Plan are already in motion to expand this initiative to neighboring school districts in 2025, namely Elgin and Smithville ISDs.
