Committees & Task Forces
A great deal of work of the Chamber is carried out by volunteers on various committees and task forces. Getting involved in these committees and task forces are one of the best ways to make the most of your membership. Volunteering not only supports the Chamber’s work but also builds valuable business connections, fosters personal growth, and strengthens our community’s workforce for today and tomorrow. Explore the list below to find a program that interests you, and reach out to us at 828-692-1413 or chamber@hendersoncountychamber.org to get started.
Ambassadors
Our ambassadors serve as the welcoming face of the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce by embodying our values and mission at various events and gatherings. Their primary goal is to enhance the Chamber's outreach efforts and provide invaluable support to both new and existing members.
Apple Festival Races
This committee promotes workplace wellness through healing living and team spirit. Our signature event is the annual Apple Festival 8K and 5K, which draws hundreds of participants the Saturday before Labor Day Weekend and coincides with our community’s Apple Festival. Beyond races, the group also shares resources on wellness programs, healthcare changes, and new ideas to help businesses foster healthier, more productive work teams.
Camp Field Day
The Camp Field Day Task Force connects local businesses with Henderson County’s youth camp industry, an important driver of our economy. Each year, the group organizes this annual fun and unique networking event to highlight the value camps bring to the region. They also work on recognition programs, community awareness, and ongoing conversations with camp leaders to support the industry’s success.
Education & Workforce Development
This committee works to ensure Henderson County has a strong, skilled workforce both now and in the future. They support students, teachers, and schools with events like the Junior Leadership program, NC Scholars Luncheon, and new teacher celebrations. They also connect employers, colleges, and job seekers through programs that strengthen career pathways and address barriers to employment.
Empower Her
Focused on advancing women in business, this committee provides networking, mentoring, and leadership opportunities. It presents the annual Athena Award in memory of Vanessa Y. Mintz and hosts quarterly Empower Hours. Members also plan leadership breakfasts and programs that spotlight women’s achievements and challenges in the workplace.
Golf Committee
The Golf Task Force plans and executes the Chamber Foundation’s annual golf tournament, raising funds to support workforce development initiatives. They ensure the event is high quality, engaging, and successful for sponsors, teams, and spectators alike. With full fields of players and strong sponsor support, the tournament continues to be a major fundraiser and community favorite.
Nominating Committee
This group identifies and recruits future leaders to serve on the Chamber’s Board of Directors. They meet annually to recommend candidates for three-year terms and fill vacancies as needed. By selecting committed, diverse leaders, the committee helps guide the Chamber’s future.
Past Leaders Council
The Past Leaders Council keeps former Chamber leaders engaged and connected. Members gather with current leadership to share insight, preserve the Chamber’s history, and advise on future direction. This group ensures valuable experience and perspective continue to strengthen the Chamber’s work.
Public Policy
Serving as “The Voice of Business,” this committee represents the Chamber on legislative issues at every level. They host forums, advocacy trips, and networking events with elected officials to ensure local business needs are heard. Members also track and share policy developments that impact our community, with a focus on transportation and economic growth.
Retirement Industry Group
RIG supports Henderson County’s thriving retirement industry, a key part of the local economy. The group advocates industry issues, works to address workforce shortages, and promotes the positive impact of retirement businesses in the community. Members also collaborate on public policy priorities that strengthen the industry’s future.
Small Business
This committee champions the needs of small and medium-sized businesses by providing resources, training, and recognition. They organize seminars, networking events, and celebrations like Small Business Week. From pitch contests to local shopping campaigns, they create programs that help entrepreneurs and business owners thrive.
Total Resource Campaign
The Total Resource Campaign (TRC) is our Chamber’s annual capacity-building initiative, harnessing the strength of engaged members to secure sponsorships, grow non-dues revenue, and ensure our mission’s sustainability. This campaign is a cornerstone of our funding, critical to keeping our programs, events and services thriving year after year.
Young Professionals of Henderson County
YPHC offers connection and growth opportunities for professionals under 40. They host monthly pop-up socials, professional development workshops, and their annual Young Professionals Gala. The group helps members build networks, sharpen skills, and find ways to get involved in the community while keeping Henderson County an attractive place for young talent.