The day after we completed our sixth annual Hays Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, someone asked me if the day was a success.
My immediate reaction was to answer, “Heck yeah!” But after more reflection, I wondered what success for this event looks like to our members.
To quote my farmer father, a “successful harvest” was the one that got the crops into the bin. Given Kansas’s unpredictable weather, I would apply his definition to golf. While a sunny day certainly added to the overall positive experience to our golf tournament, this event means so much more than a nice time on a beautiful course.
Certainly, all of us at the Chamber feel so blessed to be able to spend a fun day with our friends, members or not, on the lush green scene available at Smoky Hill Country Club. We are also incredibly grateful for the support of so many volunteers and sponsors, especially our Premier Sponsor, Eagle Communications.
Without the generosity of time, talents and treasures from so many, this day would not be the successful tournament in which it has grown.
Annually, we aim to achieve two specific goals with the golf tournament: earn additional funds while enhancing our relationships with the local community. I’m pleased to share we reached our financial goal while exceeding the number of golfers, volunteers and lunch attendees.
It is humbling to consider much of this support directly depicts the importance you place in your Chamber.
Most importantly, we cemented old acquaintances and even gained new friendships (and I’m not just meaning my new squirrel friend who took a liking to my sunflower seeds). Whether it occurred on the course or at the Patio Party, strangers were introduced, contacts were shared and bonds were developed.
Certainly, the Chamber plans to utilize these funds to offset valuable offerings that enhance all of our member businesses, such as Chamber Cheques, upcoming networking events and various communication tools like our weekly email or monthly newsletter.
We thank all of you for helping make your Chamber, and thus your community, a stronger, friendlier and more rewarding connection.
Tammy Wellbrock is executive director of the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce.