The Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce

“Access. Advocacy. Awareness.”

The Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce represents the interests of and promote greater unity among the African-American business community. Right the GHBC, which is the second oldest Black Chamber of Commerce holds true to their mission to both secure and retain a broad and diverse base of members that reflect the culture of the Greater Houston community, and provide financial and volunteer resources to implement the Chamber’s initiatives.

access to business opportunities through networking and direct contact with supplier diversity representatives from the private sector; by advocating regarding policies locally and at the state and national evels that impact black businesses; and by providing awareness through campaigns such as our “Buy Black” directory and the Pinnacle Awards. These efforts are just a few of a robust listing of what they do. Now, they need YOU to make them even stronger.

In September 1935, several prominent community leaders organized the Houston Negro Chamber of Commerce (HNCC) to empower and promote African-American businesses in the city. They focused on encouraging business within African-American.

The office was in the black-owned Pilgrim Temple building from 1935 until moving to 2808 Wheeler in 1963.

The HNCC sought to promote the civic, economic, industrial agricultural and social welfare of Houston residents; encourage a larger patronage of black enterprises and practical education in the trades and arts to stimulate better business; and develop a more amicable relationship between racial groups. The organization also encouraged residents to pay their poll taxes in order to become eligible to vote, promoted fair housing and employment practices, contributed to international commerce, and held contests, better business forums, and banquets to motivate the African-American community. During World War II, their office served as a rations headquarters. A Junior Chamber was organized in 1942. The chamber also provided platforms for national leaders and partnered with government programs.

In 1964, under the leadership of Mack H. Hannah, Jr., the chamber changed its name to the Houston Citizens Chamber Of Commerce (HCCC). As the Chamber membership evolved, in 2013 the chamber rebranded its look and name to the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce (GHBC). Women have been actively involved in the HNCC since its formation and held offices as early as 1957. In 2014, GHBC appointed Vernita B. Harris as its first female Chairman of the Board of Directors. The mission of the GHBC is to provide their members

Join today as a member, partner, or sponsor. “We are stronger together.” The Chamber is a place for every business that wants to improve their bottom line, elevate their profile, and make a positive contribution to the Houston business community.

Making a membership investment in the GHBC enhances a variety of chamber initiatives. From networking functions, to business referral, the GHBC’s many business development programs provide opportunities to connect with potential purchasers and build business relationships throughout the year.

GHBC membership is a proven investment to grow your business and strengthen the African-American small business community which will in turn strengthen the Houston economy.

As the “Voice of Black Business” for Houston, GHBC works to create a climate of growth and success for our members by providing “Access, Advocacy & Awareness” to African-American business owners.

Being a GHBC Member, helps to create a stronger, more dynamic and prosperous business community. As a member, your business enjoys a competitive edge with leadership opportunities, connections to business leaders and business-building initiatives. For more information on the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce please visit https://ghbcc.com/

The Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce is located at 4828 Loop Central Drive, Suite 1000, Houston, TX 77081 Be sure to follow them on Social Media for updates @ GreaterHoustonBlackChamber

Carol Guess Chair, Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

> What do you specialize in, what are you most known for? For over 20 years, I have served as a principal attorney for the Guess Firm, where I represent clients in wills, probate, and trust matters. I have also represented clients in entertainment and business matters. For 2019-2020, I am humbled to serve as the Chair of the Board for the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce. It is my privilege to work with our Board of Directors, Advisory Board, Foundation Board, members, and supporters to continue the forward movement of the Chamber and the state of Black business owners in the Houston area. > Everyone has a story about why they started, what’s your’s? I come from a family of lawyers, and while I was heavily influenced by my environment to join the family practice, I soon found great enjoyment in assisting others. I’m proud of the Guess legacy that my family has created, but over the years, I have been able to create my own personal legacy. My occupation has given me the opportunity to enhance people’s lives and to ensure that justice prevails. > Being in business can be hard and difficult sometimes, what keeps you motivated? My commitment to integrity is at the forefront of all that I do. That commitment makes me accountable to serving others with excellence, which plan to do for the remainder of my career. > What can we look forward to from you in the upcoming year? 2020 will be a great year for the Greater Houston Black Chamber, as we celebrate 87 years of service and collaboration with Black business owners. We are seeing more and more thriving businesses in our community, and we will continue to provide resources and opportunities for more to join the ranks of Black business ownership. > What has been the hardest thing about being in business? The hardest thing about business is being patient while working towards your vision. I am a hard worker, so I don’t mind putting in the work. But, when you know how awesome something can become, it’s easy to become anxious. > What are the failures that you most cherish? I once considered it a failure that I did not “make it” early in life. Now, though, I’m glad that it took a while for me to see success. What I wanted for myself in my 20s and 30s is so much more appreciated and better preserved in my 40s. I am more sober about life without the sting of cynicism. I also

know how to better pace myself. I’ve truly learned to embrace and appreciate who I am. > What did you want to be when you grew up? By no means am I perfect. But, I like who I’ve become and who I am becoming. This is who and where I should be, an African American business woman who is committed to other Black business owners through my work with the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce. > What do you do in your free time? Because I am a fulltime attorney, my free time is filled with my duties as Chair of the Board of Directors for the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce. I can’t think of a better way to spend my time than to help others live out their professional dreams. > How would you describe yourself in one word? Multi-tasker > What sets you apart from others who are doing the same thing? What sets me apart from others is that I believe there is enough business, money and resources out there for everyone. My position at the GHBC allows me to literally share the wealth of information that is often hidden from or unavailable to my community. I feel personally invested in the success of other Black business owners because it is indicative of the success of the entire Black community. When one succeeds, few benefit. When we all succeed, we all benefit. > What is a philosophy or quote that you live by? Go through it, and then get over it! > If you could offer one piece of advice to someone wanting to follow your path, what would it be? Pray first! (LOL) This path has not been easy! Make sure you are willing to be a servant and that its fits God’s plan for you!!

For more information you can email Carol Guess at Chair@ghbcc.com