Some of the Benefits of Belonging

This question is posed so often by potential members that a response is worth putting down in black and white.

But before we outline the tangible benefits, we must confess that many of the benefits are less than tangible. Will your $60 membership prove to be a good investment? Will it pay you back dollar for dollar – or better? What we do know is that a community that acts like a community - that is, one that bands together to reach common goals – will be more successful than a similar number of individuals all acting alone. In other words, the old adage rings true… “There is strength in numbers”. And whether it’s for tourist promotion, efforts to promote local economic health, or even support for community events, a critical mass of support is essential for success.

The Chamber Visitor’s Center is a popular stop for tourists and as a member of the Chamber you may place your promotional materials in the Visitor Center for no fee.  We also maintain event signage boards at all three entrances to Hotchkiss to promote happenings that bring people to town and to the Valley.

The Chamber fulfills literally hundreds of information requests every year. Requests arrive by mail, email and telephone and we make certain to answer all questions thoroughly and quickly. We feel good service reflects well on our town – and good impressions are invaluable.

The Chamber hosts periodic “Business After Hours” events which afford members the opportunity to interact socially and to strengthen the ties between members of our business community.

The Chamber makes available to members, mailing labels for their fellow Chamber members.
The Chamber emails notices to our members prior to all Chamber events and whenever there is something of interest to share with members

The Chamber supports community events that bring visitors to town. Some of the events we support are:

• The Hotchkiss Sheep Camp Stock Dog Trials,
• The Holiday Arts Crafts and Business Fair,
• The Antique & Collectible show at Heritage Hall.

The Chamber also supports periodic events such as the bi-annual lunch stop for the Colorado Grand Road Race as well as event coordination for The Ride the Rockies and Bicycle Tour Colorado overnight tour stops.

The Hotchkiss Chamber, in coordination with the Paonia and Crawford Chambers, maintains the popular website  NorthForkValley.net, which contains much interesting and useful information for those interested in learning more about Hotchkiss and the North Fork Valley.

The site maintains a comprehensive, and regularly updated, Calendar of Events for the North Fork Valley.

As an added benefit, chamber member businesses are listed in the on-line business directory and provided a free link to their business website. Member businesses that do not have a website, but desire a web presence, may request the Chamber to construct a business web page for a small fee.

The Chambers also co-host a bi-annual Business Symposium to help small businesses connect with helpful resources and information.