Allen's success has been no accident. It is a result of the effective leadership, diligent effort and forward thinking determination of businesses and residents who have worked with great passion to build the city on a foundation of sound principles.

The chamber encourages retention and growth of the commercial tax base, provides promotional and networking opportunities for the business community and ensures the continued representation of the business community on legislative issues.

Leadership is crucial to the success of the chamber and our city. Volunteer leaders represent the chamber membership. Their time, expertise, financial and personal contributions are instrumental to the success of the chamber. Without them we have no direction. Committees and task forces will be in place during 2010 to assist in providing the following:

• Business Advocacy monitors business issues on a local, state and national level and provides a forum for local businesses to address these concerns.
• Education and Benefits Task Force explores ways to provide value added services to our membership through review of affiliate and discount programs and educational opportunities.

Leadership Allen 2010 will mark the graduation of our 21st graduating class. To date the chamber has graduated over 200 from this program and many have gone on to hold positions of leadership and trust within the community, the county and the State of Texas.

The Strategic Planning Task Force continually reviews the chamber's programs and services to discuss and plan future programs with common interests benefiting our members and community. In addition this task force provides vision for the future of the chamber from staffing, facility and program enhancement opportunities.

Membership Development & Retention

The chamber must attract and maintain our membership, for without them, it does not exist. Referrals and networking are at the heart of membership and business retention and this task force will continue to work to enhance these opportunities which include member-only referrals, WISE (Women in Support of Enterprise), Nothing But Networking Luncheons, Business Wrap-ups and our newest-the MOB (Men of Business).

Special projects continue to offset the cost of running our chamber. These events provide opportunities to recognize volunteers and to provide promotional opportunities for our members.

• Celebrate Allen Annual Banquet & Auction
• New Teacher Breakfast
• Annual Chamber Golf Classic

Information services and communication are an important part of the chamber's responsibilities.

The chamber is the first stop (or call) for information about Allen, AISD, community organizations and related activities by prospective residents, visitors and businesses. Distribution of relocation and new residents packets assist in this effort and provide valuable promotional opportunities for our members. The chamber also maintains a visitor and business information area in our lobby and is the official promotion arm of the City of Allen.