Chamber director defines what her group does

Chambers of Commerce are local businesses that need a voice. With 200 members locally, the Jacksboro Chamber is a strong, diverse business community. That wants to be not just a dot on the map but a spot on the map.

Monk said the Chamber wants businesses to stay credible and gain trust with business

Executive Director Valerie Monk spoke to Lions Club Members Nov. 11.In the short time Monk has been here, she has worked on online businesses and enhancing their effectiveness , referrals and getting them into the Chamber pushing members online into sponsorships and doing more networking.

One of the more popular networking events is Coffee wit theChamber on the second Thursday. The Chamber also works in Webinars and seminars through MSU that help with some things such as Quickbook trainings to help businesses get their finances in order.

Getting Chamber members involved in monthly and regular events is important to get them out there in the public eye. February has the Chamber Banquet with May being Small Business Week and encouraging residents to shop small. June is the Famous for Serving event where members who are famous for their service become waiters for the night and donate tips to a local nonprofit.

August is the JISD Teacher Appreciation Bunch. Showing the County’s largest employer that they are appreciated with awards given out. November has the chili cookout and OutdoorFest with more than20 cookers of chili plus sides along with vendors also brings people to town.

Chamber Chat, which has members be interviewed about their business may bring their business into wonders of social media for the first time, Monk explained the 5-10 minute interview is fun, light hearted and a great new marketing tool.

The Farmer’s Market has grown from 3 to 30 vendors in just a year. It’s held the fourth Saturday of nearly every month and helping bring community together.

December has the general public eat locally by offer ing prizes for those that do and show such online.

Monk said she is happy to be in this role to get people happy about living in Jacksboro and businesses to work in Jacksboro.