Are you new to chamber work or looking to strengthen your foundation as a chamber professional? Don’t miss the TCCE Chamber Basics Workshop—a dynamic, one-day event designed to equip chamber staff with essential knowledge, tools, and connections to succeed.
This engaging workshop features insights from seasoned chamber leaders on critical topics such as building volunteer networks, managing member expectations, advocating effectively for your business community, and fostering strong internal culture and communication strategies.
In addition to high-impact sessions, this event offers an invaluable opportunity to connect with fellow chamber professionals from across Texas—many of whom are navigating the same challenges and opportunities you are.
Whether you're just getting started or simply looking to sharpen your skills, this workshop is your springboard to success.
AGENDA
● 9:00 AM – Welcome & Introductions
Al Arreola, CEO, United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce
○ Welcome to Corpus Christi
○ Overview of the day
○ Objectives of Chamber Basics
● 9:15 AM – 10:15 AM | Chamber’s Role in the Community - Presenter: Al Arreola
● Topics:
○ Governance structure (501(c)(6), Board of Directors, bylaws)
○ Types and sizes of Chambers
○ The Chamber as convener and community leader
○ Building coalitions and promoting business voice
○ Economic Development, Tourism, Advocacy, and Networking
● 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM | Activating a Volunteer Force - Presenter: TBD
○ Building engaged boards, ambassadors, and committees
○ Volunteer leadership development
○ Task forces and community involvement models
● 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM | Defining Member Benefits - Presenter: Darby Nielsen, CEO, Rockwall Chamber
○ Core vs. value-added benefits
○ Tiered membership structures
○ Communicating member value and retention strategies
● 12:00 PM – 1:15 PM | Networking Lunch & Breakout by Role
○ Grouped by job roles (e.g. CEO, Membership, Events, Comms)
● 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM | Chamber Communications & Marketing - Presenter: TBD
○ Digital transformation: CRM tools, websites, email automation
○ Branding, storytelling, and member communication strategy
○ Social media, newsletters, and public visibility
● 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM | Ways and Reasons to Advocate - Presenter: Ginny
○ Creating an advocacy agenda
○ Committee formation and grassroots outreach
○ Engaging with elected officials and community stakeholders
● 2:45 PM – 3:15 PM | Hot Topics Roundtable
● Moderated discussion on emerging challenges:
○ Advocacy, Workforce, DEI
○ Chamber “Silos” and strategic priorities
○ Open Q&A and shared best practices
● 3:15 PM – 3:30 PM | Closing Remarks
● Facilitator: TCCE Staff
● Wrap-up, final takeaways
Hotel Room Block Information:
Emerald Beach/Holiday Inn Express
1102 S Shoreline Boulevard, Corpus Christi, TX
To reserve a room at our special group rate of $119.00, please use this this link: Select your room
Last Day to Book: Friday August 15, 2025
Tower II
Tower II is a 17 story office building located in the central business district. You can find the conference center on the third floor in suite 300.
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