Montana Association of Chamber Executives (MACE)-Spring 2007 Newsletter

It has come that time where the Montana Association of Chamber
Executives takes a closer look inward and re-evaluates the
processes that we have gone through, the programs we have
encouraged and the solid progress that we have made as a leading
organization of some of the most dedicated Chamber executives
across the state.

And as is so with many other organizations that take the time to
assess the fundamentals of what makes them successful,
effective, progressive, or conversely otherwise, the Montana
Association of Chamber Executives (MACE) needs to have a clear
and valid picture of what we DO.

If you ask any one of the 32+ members (including executives and staff) of the organization
what we do, you might just come up with that many different answers. The one thing that
most members agree on is that we do offer a great network of colleagues and fellow Chamber
staff and executives for each and every member to connect with. One of the many strengths
of MACE is that it represents such a variety of different size Chambers, from the very rural,
very locally committed small community Chambers in Montana to the Chamber of the
leading cities of Billings, Helena, Missoula, Great Falls, and Bozeman. MACE is a one size
fits all business organization where the materials shared at meetings and the contacts
available through networking offer something for everyone. MACE’s executive team is
dedicated to keeping up with this aspect of our operations, and prides themselves on
including the priorities and objectives of all Chamber members in planning and goal setting
objectives for the organization.
MACE’s strength lies in their members; the dedication of those Chambers and their staff
involved is shown in the offering of resources and mentoring.

The commitment is
compounded by the hard work it takes to organize bi-annual programs and meetings that
educate, inform and enlighten on subjects pertaining to leadership, teambuilding, marketing
and advertising, legislative initiatives, business development, economic sustainability and
more. Tools for applying any and all of these components of a strong Chamber organization
are made available to all active members, and the bottom line rule is that if you want the
information, it is there for you to use.
MACE operates much the same way that each of its individual Chamber members do; you
will get from MACE what you want out of it. The more you give, the more you get.
So as we look at what we do, we encourage those who are actively involved in MACE to do
the same on your own levels; assess what it is that you get from MACE, encourage the
organization where it needs to do more for YOU. Encourage fellow Chamber colleagues
across the state and their staff to take another look at and consider being involved in this
organization that has the potential to change the face of business in Montana. Share with
them what you get from MACE, and show them the possibilities for what they may get as
well. Here’s to a year of growth within MACE, and within your own organizations. Practice
good business; leave no resource untapped.

Sincerely,

Marne Hayes, Big Sky Chamber of Commerce

2007 M.A.C.E. President

Full Newsletter: http://www.montanachamber.net/admin/sites/513/filelib/MACE%20Newsletter/MACE%20Spring%202007%20Newsletter.pdf