From The Tribune staff reports
MOODY — The Moody Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates 20 years of service to its members and community.
“This year kicks off a very significant milestone for the Moody Area Chamber of Commerce. We are delighted to announce 20 years of service to our members and community,” Executive Director Andrea Machen said. “We hope all of you will join us to toast our journey and embrace the future during our celebration luncheon on February 9th.”
The Moody Area Chamber of Commerce was originally founded as a business association to promote, support, and expand businesses and make a difference in the business climate in Moody and surrounding areas.
In 2003, a small, amazingly dedicated group of business owners and professionals bound together by their like-minded belief in the importance of a strong business community decided to form the Chamber of commerce and merge the Moody Business Association as one.
The Chamber was being operated on a shoestring budget, but they were determined to keep the Chamber afloat. With the task of finding a new home, Redmond Dental opened its doors and embraced the Chamber for several years before moving into the newly built Moody City Hall in the summer of 2006.
When Machen was hired in July of 2006, she knew there would be several big challenges on the horizon. However, the perseverance and philanthropic mindset she saw in this group of business leaders gave her the inspiration and courage to take on the position, plunge forward and never look back.
“The most important thing in my mind was to bring the people of Moody together – businesses, government, and community,” Machen said. “Reaching out, not only within our borders but beyond, became my strategy to achieve this goal. Simply put, communities need businesses, businesses need people, and people need a sense of place. Everything the Chamber does brings people together, creates a sense of place, builds relationships, and promotes businesses and community. That is exactly why we do all of the things we do. Ultimately, I hope it instills the same pride in others that I have while living, working, and playing in the City of Moody.”
The chamber tagline was created with just that in mind, Building Business Legacies, What We Do, We Do Together; but it wouldn’t have been possible without the perseverance of the strong leaders that took the first steps.
Many thanks to all the members who continue in the legacy of the founders, believing and supporting the initiatives for a thriving business community. During the February celebration luncheon, charter members that have supported the Chamber consistently for the past 20 years will be recognized along with many of the original founding directors.
The Moody Area Chamber of Commerce is wishing a very prosperous and healthy New Year to all.