Build Business Relationships

Leverage your Chamber membership to build business relationships. In addition to networking opportunities offered through programs and events, you can expand your network by participating on a Chamber committee. Through committee involvement you can:

• Pursue a passion
• Focus on a need
• Tackle meaningful issues
• Build business relationships
• Hone leadership skills

Members are encouraged to become involved in the Chamber through participation in and leadership of various councils and initiatives. Volunteerism is necessary to accomplish the Chamber's program of work. Members benefit by interacting and networking with other business leaders who share common interests. Some people start by joining the Chamber's "Ambassadors" because it is the quickest way to meet current Chamber members, new members and to better understand how the Harlingen Area Chamber works.

To join any of the following groups, please contact the staff person listed below.

Ambassadors Committee - The official “hosts” of the Chamber, who serve in a public relations capacity and as the liaison between the Chamber Board and the membership. Members attend ribbon cuttings, ground breaking ceremonies, dedications, and Business After Hours functions on a regular basis. They also assist with the Golf Tournament, New Teacher Welcome Luncheon, and Annual Awards Banquet. Contact Shannon Sullivan at (956) 423-5565 ext. 214

Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet Planning Committee –
Contact Melissa Boykin at (956) 423-5565 ext. 218

Education & Career Planning Committee – This committee is charged with coordinating the annual Education and Career EXPO event, held in September at Texas State Technical College to present educational and career options and opportunities to Valley high school students. The committee begins meeting in March thru September. Responsibilities include procuring sponsors and exhibitors, arranging publicity and marketing, notifying area high schools, contacting decorators, arranging lunch for 1000+ attendees, etc. Committee members also work the day of the EXPO, assisting with registration, booth set-up, tours, unloading school buses, directing student traffic in the exhibit hall, etc. Contact Kathy Wolf at (956) 423-5565 x 212

Center For Retirement Steering Committee – The Center for Creative Retirement is an organization established in 2000 by the Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce to develop stimulating programs which offer lifelong learning for people age 55 and over. To achieve this mission, a steering committee researches, develops, organizes and presents a nine month series of lectures or tours beginning in September. There is an annual membership fee of $25 per person. Contact Maggie Ortiz at (956) 423-5565 ext. 201

Golf Tournament Planning Committee – Members of this committee coordinate the annual golf outing at a local golf course. This event provides members with the opportunity to socialize with their guests and business associates. Committee members obtain tee/green sponsors, door prizes, auction items and determine the “games” and activities that help add to the enjoyment of the event. Contact Melissa Boykin at (956) 423-5565 ext. 218

Summer Showcase Planning Committee –
Contact Melissa Boykin at (956) 423-5565 ext. 218

Special Events Volunteer–
Contact Melissa Boykin at (956) 423-5565 ext. 218