MCCC Committees

Governmental Affairs – As the recognized voice for the business community to government at all levels, the chamber monitors local, state and federal government issues, and works with elected officials at all levels to further the community’s interests. Throughout the year, special chamber events give members the opportunity to meet elected officials and discuss their legislative concerns. The Chamber is very proud of the relationships it has created with all elected officials and monitors all pending legislation, both state and federal, to keep members abreast of pending business issues.

Marion 1^st in the 21^st – Germinated from seed money provided through a local economic development grant in 2004, this long-term initiative helps promote Marion County in the 21^st century through a focus on small business funding, retail, housing and quality of life issues. The committee partners with local towns and municipalities along with the Marion County Commission to promote the project’s objectives.

Events – This active committee boasts some of the organization’s most dedicated volunteers, who plan and implement member events and community-wide celebrations. Events include the Spring Home & Garden Expo, the Annual Golf Outing and regular networking sessions.

Education – The Marion County Chamber has one of the state’s finest partnerships with educational providers in the area. Through cooperation with Marion County Schools, Fairmont State University and Pierpont Community and Technical College, this committee offers programs that educate and motivate young people from the area:

• Youth Leadership Program
• Senior Forum
• High School Business Symposium
• Mad City Money

Students who complete the Youth Leadership Program or the Senior Forum become eligible to apply for one of eight college scholarships awarded by the chamber and its partners each year.

Finance – This committee assists the chamber president with budgetary concerns and helps with the management of the chamber building.

Small Business – More than 85 percent of MCCC members are classified as small businesses, so the chamber focuses intently on the needs of these members. This committee provides value-added services that include forums, educational seminars and networking events.

2009 Program of Work/Business Plan

Each year the MCCC facilitates a business summit to establish the annual Program of Work/Business Plan. During a two-day roundtable discussion, community leaders focus on important changes and opportunities for all local businesses, and develop an annual action plan for the board of directors.

The 2009 Program of Work focuses on:

• Establishing a revolving loan fund via MCCC with participation from all local financial institutions
• Supporting the initiatives of Pierpont Community and Technical College as it becomes a separate entity
• Working with and continuing to assist Fairmont General Hospital in their efforts to change the federal “sole provider” legislation
• Continuing to work with the Marion County Board of Education to update and improve the facilities plan and supporting the county’s efforts to acquire equitable state funding
• Supporting the continuation of the Connector System and Coal Run Hollow Parkway, as well as supporting the Marion Regional Development Corporation’s efforts to develop a new county-wide multi-modal transportation plan

To become part of all the exciting efforts of the Marion Chamber of Commerce, join the chamber today!