This time of year, it’s important to reflect on gratitude. In the holiday spirit, we recently held our inaugural Friendsgiving for Chamber Ambassadors. We shared traditional Thanksgiving food like turkey, mashed potatoes, dressing, and of course, pie. We took this time to thank them for volunteering to be champions for the work we do, celebrate the incredible year we had together, and look back on the year and express why we are thankful. As we take this time to reflect on what we’re thankful for, we also ask others about their gratitude. Our ambassadors shared a bit about why they are thankful for the Chamber.  

Why are you thankful for the Greater Memphis Chamber? 

“I am thankful for the Greater Memphis Chamber because of the opportunities that the Chamber provides and the willingness to make businesses better which makes Memphis and the community better.” – Rozell Gray, Ambassador for 3 years 

“I am thankful for the work the Chamber does for its members locally and regionally as an advocate and as a sound resource partner for Member Businesses of all sizes.” – DeJaun Hendricks, Ambassador for 25 years 

“When I see my fellow ambassadors and GMC employees at events, we share our wins, our failures, and the minute of our daily lives. It’s difficult to stop and appreciate the people around you while forging a path of business success. But the Chamber does an excellent job of putting members first and making them the stars of each and every event so you can’t overlook anyone. Our company joined primarily to become a part of the online business directory, and we have received a lot more than that in return.” – Aerin Ellis, Ambassador for 4 months. 

Why We are thankful

Just as our ambassadors are thankful for the Chamber, we too have much to be thankful for at the Chamber. We are thankful for all 1,600+ members—over 350 of which are new this year. We are thankful for our business leaders who seek to make our city and region GREATER. We are thankful for surpassing 200 Chairman’s Circle members and their invaluable partnership. We are thankful for our councils—Young Professionals Council, Women’s Business Council, and Small Business Council—that provide their members with opportunities for learning and growth. We are thankful for funding we received for America’s River Crossing. We are thankful for the new businesses that have chosen Memphis as their home. We are, of course, thankful for the 162 ambassadors that assist us at various events and represent us well. We are especially thankful for this city and its continued prosperity. The list could go on!  

Thank you, Chamber members, for your support! Enjoy the holidays and express gratitude during this season.