On July 8, the Homewood Area Chamber of Commerce (HACC) officially welcomed Lisa Gann Campbell as its new president. While she is new to the position, she is not new to HACC, having served as vice president since April 2019.
Campbell was appointed president by the Board of Directors due to the resignation of Rodney Young Jr., who had served as president since January 2019. Speaking on behalf of the board, she said the directors were sad to see Young’s departure and “although we understand his choice, we will miss his leadership greatly.”
“I had the privilege to serve as VP with Rodney for nearly 15 months and I know that he has helped HACC grow and redefine itself to succeed in the years to come,” Campbell said. “I am thrilled that I have been entrusted to continue the journey he established for the future of HACC, increasing our membership and forging new relationships in our communities.”
HACC includes Homewood, Flossmoor and Glenwood.
She added that, historically, HAAC has struggled with membership numbers for various reasons.
“But we are seeing a renewed interest in the chamber with a growth in our membership numbers and renewals,” she said.
She attributed the growth to cooperative efforts with other organizations, such as the Homewood Business Association, Flossmoor Business Association and the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce (CSCC).
“One of our joint events with the CSCC included a survey of how businesses were dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. It helped us gauge what we could do to help. That information encouraged us to be a strong supporter of the recent ‘Restaurant Week’ conducted in Homewood. The co-op effort, such as sharing e-mails and events and employee assistance, will benefit the business communities so they will realize the benefits of chamber membership and why chambers of commerce exist.”
Campbell also praised her newly appointed vice president, Haseena Shaheed-Jackson, for the enthusiasm and energy she brings to the position.
“Her goal is partnership and collaborating with local area businesses, assisting in their growth and development,” Campbell said. “We have already partnered together to coordinate and schedule webinars and communications. We are offering every chamber member the opportunity to host an educational 45-60-minute webinar in their area of expertise. HACC will set up the logistics, send out the announcement and advertisement.”
Shaheed-Jackson also encourages chamber members to support local businesses.
“The majority of our local businesses are re-opening and they need our support. It is upon each of us to be instrumental in our recovery, collectively pulling together so we can all thrive again,” she said.
For further information on the HACC membership and special events and webinars, contact the office at 708-206-3384 or visit the website at www.homewoodareachamber.com.