WHAT IS THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE?

The Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary non-profit, non-partisan, non-sectarian association of business and professional people working together in an organized way to promote business, to assist community development, to advance human progress through an economic, political and social system based on individual freedom, incentive, initiative, opportunity and responsibility. The Chamber was established in 1933, and is located in downtown historic Tarboro, North Carolina.

WHAT IS THE CHAMBER'S PURPOSE?

The purpose of the Tarboro Edgecombe Chamber of Commerce is to improve the quality of life in Edgecombe County by promoting the best interests of the business community by working to improve the economic and business environment and community image of the Tarboro and Edgecombe County area.

WHY HAVE A CHAMBER?

To afford the business and industrial community the non-governmental opportunity to band together to accomplish programs for the public good which are not possible or practical on an individual basis.

HOW DO WE ACCOMPLISH OUR GOALS?

Through a planned program of action as determined by the members, called a Program of Work.

HOW DO WE FINANCE OUR PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS?

The greatest portion of our money comes from the investment of the members.(The term "investment" is used rather than "dues" because members are making an investment in their community). Several times during the year we sponsor fund-raising events to support the Chamber's activities. These might include dances, raffles, parties, etc. Certain scheduled activities such as the Farm-city breakfast, Christmas Parade, and Business Expo generate revenues above expenses.

WHAT ABOUT THE MEMBERSHIP?

There are over 200 members. These members come from all areas of the community--doctors, lawyers, merchants, industries, small business owners, service organizations, schools, colleges, and governmental units. Anyone who is interested in our programs, wants to participate, and is willing to make their fair share investment, may be a member.

HOW IS THE CHAMBER ORGANIZED AND RUN?

The Chamber leadership is made up of a Board of Directors who are all volunteers, and a paid staff of two. There are 8 officers who are Board members and who are elected by the Board. The officers are: President, President-elect, Immediate Past President, Secretary/Treasurer, VP Special Projects, VP Education, VP Government, VP Membership.

HOW IS THE BOARD SELECTED?

The Board is elected by vote annually. A nominating committee comprised of members of the Chamber annually hold an open meeting to receive suggestions from the membership for nominations, and to submit a slate to the membership for election. The members have the right to petition to add members to the slate. Board terms are 3 years. Each year, 3 members retire and 3 new members join the Board. The President may appoint up to 2 special Board appointments for 1 year terms.

HOW ARE PLANS FOR THE YEAR DETERMINED?

The Board of Directors conduct an annual planning meeting where the Program of Work is generated for the following year. Suggestions are solicited from members and citizens at large in order to determine the community needs. Priorities are set and plans are made which can be accomplished within the limits of the budget.