Learn More About Gulfport's Non-Profit Organizations

One of the reasons I feel Gulfport is such a special town is because of the ‘volunteer component’ or ‘community commitment’ by residents. I’m not just talking about folks that volunteer to help out at an event but those who serve on boards that require regular meeting attendance and follow thru. In this next selection of blogs I hope to introduce you to the many and varied non-profit organizations in Gulfport and their leaders.

Here is just a small listing of those organizations off the top of my head. (I’m sure I missed a few and would be glad to add them if you remind me of more that exist). If I did miss you, please provide your information. If I have listed you and we are missing information that is not listed on your website (that’s where I plucked it from) please comment and add it.

• Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce
• Gulfport Merchants Association
• So49
• Gulfport Neighbors
• Industrial Arts Center
• City of Imagination
• Gulfport Senior Center Foundation
• Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Library
• Gulfport Lions Club
• Gulfport Teen Council
• Gulfport Police Explorers Post #995
• Gulfport CERT
• Boca Ciega Yacht Club
• Gulfport Yacht Club

These organizations host the myriad of events that Gulfport has to offer and provide a great service to the community. I hope this blog helps let other potential volunteers know there is opportunity out there to get involved and make a difference!

The first organization I will highlight is one I know well, the Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce.

Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce (GACoC)

www.gulfportareachamberofcommerce.org

Mission: The Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce is an association of local business people and works steadily to improve business and community life by seeking new ways to assist members and to plan for the future of the community at large.

Most importantly, the Chamber consists of people who realize that, through the Chamber, they can accomplish collectively what they cannot individually.

Managed by an elected board of directors, the Chamber is dedicated to helping you and your business succeed. 

The overall objective of the Chamber is to advance the general welfare and prosperity of both the economic, civic, commercial, cultural, industrial and educational interests in the area.

Board of Directors:

• President: Lori Rosso, Sea Breeze Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn
• Vice President: Charles Gallagher, Gallagher and Associates Law Firm
• Treasurer: Rob Fowler, 007 Computers
• Secretary: Barry Rubin, Time Systems
• Director: Linda Craig, Perfect 10 Nail Salon
• Director: Lynda Sheehan, Auntie Lynda’s Pet Care
• Director: Joe Soska, Olympus Printing
• Director: Ester Venouziou, Local Shops 1
• Director: West Dupes, Town Talk
• Director: Rick McChesney, The Bugman
• Executive Director: Bob Newcomb

Meetings:

Board Meeting: Third Thursday of every month at 8 a.m.

General Meeting: Third Thursday of every month at 5:30 p.m. and rotates

The Chamber has an office at 4926 Gulfport Blvd. which serves as an information center.

Events: Springfest, Pink Flamingo Tour of Homes, Aquamania, Women’s Fishing Tournament