Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:24:06 -0700EditMySiteMon, 22 Sep 2025 13:54:53 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/leadership-greer-class-46-announcedThe Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the members of Leadership Greer Class 46. This dynamic group of local professionals is selected for their commitment to community leadership, professional excellence, and civic engagement. This program is dedicated to cultivating professionals who are passionate about investing in a greater future for Greer.  

Class 46 will participate in class bonding excursions, skill building exercises, and educational sessions which enhance their leadership skills. The class will select one community project, encouraging them to develop a deeper sense of local civic responsibility. 

We are proud to introduce the following members of Leadership Greer Class 46: 
Joseph Allen, Dr. Joseph Allen Chiropractic Clinic  
David Armstrong, Pelham Medical Center    
Scott Barr, Mitsubishi Polyester Film 
Halle Blackwell, Greer Relief  
Jonathan Burns, BCA Private Wealth  
Carolyn Cadieu, Prisma Health  
Charlotte Carroll, Family Dental Health  
Charlene Christian , North Greenville University  
Virginia Cononie, University of South Carolina Upstate  
Heidi Edwards, Thrivent  
Jeff  Farrington, Greer Community Ministries   
Adam Forringer, City of Greer    
Trey  Gable  Countybank 
Jim Garrison, Century 3 Engineering 
Kendall Hill, Southern Dance Connection 
Kyle Hockaday, Southern First Bank  
Jenna Jenkins, Prisma Health   
Mike Johnson, Century 3 Inc.   
Joy Kamees, United Bank  
Chris Kline, City of Greer   
Anna-Elyse Lewis, City of Greer
Angela Limbaugh, South Carolina Insurance Brokers  
Michelle McCallum, Greenville Tech Foundation  
Jenn Nunez, Family Dental Health 
Nathan Shaughnessy, Mitsubishi Chemical 
Joyal Solinsky, Jadex, Inc 
Stephanie Turner, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System 
Gavin Vary, Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce 
Meghan Weibel, City of Greer 
Cassandra Wilkins, Autoneum 
Christina Zolli, VisitGreenvilleSC ]]>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 20:29:25 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/leadership-greer-class-46-seeks-community-project-proposalsLeadership Greer Class 46 is now accepting community project proposals! Non-profits in the area or those who know of community needs are encouraged to submit a project. 
Each year, the Leadership Greer program makes a philanthropic commitment that allows class members to work in a collaborative effort while demonstrating their skills, strengthening local partnerships, and creating positive sustainable change. 

Organizations interested in submitting a project proposal should consider the following: 

• Impact: Project should benefit the greater Greer community. 
  
• Leadership Involvement: Project should allow for engagement of Leadership Greer participants. 
  
• Monetary need for the project should not exceed $25,000. Fundraising may be a component of the project to reach its goal, but projects should not be solely focused on it. 
  
• Timeline: Project is accomplishable within the program timeline and can be completed by May 2026. 
  

Applications are due by Friday, July 25, 2025. 
To apply, complete the submission form: Leadership Greer Class 46 Project Application 
For questions about project eligibility or the application process, contact President/CEO Katie Collins through info@greerchamber.com or (864) 877-3131. 

About Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce: 
The Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting economic development and improving the quality of life in the greater Greer area. Through advocacy, events, and programs, the Chamber supports local businesses and fosters a vibrant community. 
]]>Thu, 15 May 2025 20:22:09 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/welcome-gavin-vary-as-director-of-membershipThe Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Gavin Vary as its Director of Membership. With a dynamic background in hospitality, events, and relationship-driven engagement, Gavin brings a unique perspective and an unwavering passion for connecting people and elevating member experiences. 

Originally from Melbourne, Florida, Gavin has led event and membership teams at premier institutions including The Breakers Palm Beach Resort and Teton Pines Country Club in Jackson, Wyoming. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for creating bespoke experiences and fostering genuine connections across diverse industries and communities. 

“We’re excited to welcome Gavin to the Greer Chamber team,” said Katie Collins, President and CEO of the Greater Greer Chamber. “His people-first mindset, strategic approach, and deep appreciation for community will be invaluable as we continue to grow and enhance our member offerings.” 

Gavin and his wife now call the Upstate home and are eager to plant roots while serving the Greer business community. In his new role, he will lead strategic outreach and engagement initiatives aimed at supporting and connecting with Chamber members of all sizes and sectors. 

“I believe every member brings something valuable to our community,” said Gavin. “I’m honored to step into this role and look forward to strengthening our community by offering investment worthy experiences.” 

For more information or membership inquiries, contact Gavin Vary at gavin@greerchamber.com or call (864) 877 -3131 ext. 1103. 

About Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce: 
The Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting economic development and improving the quality of life in the greater Greer area. Through advocacy, events, and programs, the Chamber supports local businesses and fosters a vibrant community. 
]]>Thu, 01 May 2025 17:51:22 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/lg-45-champions-healthy-kids-launchA fresh initiative is taking root in Greer thanks to Leadership Greer Class 45, who partnered with the Greer Farmers Market to launch the Healthy Kids Program as part of their class project. This farm-to-table program promotes healthy eating and active lifestyles among children by improving access to fresh, local produce. Designed with education in mind, the program will feature tastings, interactive kids’ activities, story time readings, and more. Each week, the first 50 children who visit the market will receive a $5 voucher. Healthy Kids empowers children to make choices that support personal and community wellness, making nutritious food both exciting and accessible. 
A special ceremony will take place as Mayor of Greer, Rick Danner, is to speak. A celebratory check will be presented by Leadership Greer Class 45 to Greer Farmers Market Director Maggie Blair. Children are welcome to join in with seed planting and various other interactive activities. 
​
Event Details: 

• What: Healthy Kids Program Launch​
• When: Sunday, May 4
• Where: Greer City Park
• Time: Market Hours 11 AM – 2 PM. Special ceremony at 1:00 PM. 

​
Special thanks go out to all those who sponsor and donate to Healthy Kids in this effort of community success. 
Mitsubishi Chemical | Greenville Federal Credit Union | Prisma | City of Greer | CBL Savings Bank | Jadex/Alltrista | Sage Automotive | Pelham Medical Center | North Greenville University | Greer Centennial Lions Club | Pinnacle Financial Partners | Global Management Partners | 
Mr. Salsa Mexican Restaurant 

About Leadership Greer: 
Since its inception, Leadership Greer has been the cornerstone for developing future leaders in the Greer community. Through collaboration, education, and service, participants gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in Greer and contribute to the community’s ongoing growth. ]]>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:37:29 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/state-of-the-economy-with-richmond-fed-ceoThe Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the upcoming State of Economy Presented by Pinnacle Financial Partners, an event offering valuable insights into current economic trends shaping the local business community. Speaker Tom Barkin, President & CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, is a leader in economic policy and financial stability. Barkin offers an in-depth analysis of the current economic landscape including inflation trends, labor market conditions, and an outlook for growth in the coming year while providing an opportunity for interactive Q&A.

Event Details:

• Monday April 14th
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
• Historic Greer Depot, 300 Randall Street, Greer, SC 29651
• ​Speaker Tom Barkin, President/CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Registration Details
Secure a single spot or full table, either at member or non-member price, online at www.greerchamber.com using our Chamber Calendar. All are welcome.​

• Member Price $40 | Non-Member Price $50
• Member Table $500 | Non-Member Table $650 

]]>Wed, 05 Mar 2025 18:21:27 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/helene-relief-still-available-for-south-carolinaThe U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is extending the physical damage loan deadline for disaster declarations affected by the 2024 federal funding lapse. The new deadline to apply is April 27, 2025.

The disaster declaration covers Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union, and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation in South Carolina which are eligible for both physical damage and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for EIDLs: Berkeley, Calhoun, Chesterfield, Clarendon, Colleton, Darlington, Dorchester, Lancaster, Lee and Sumter in South Carolina; Burke, Chatham, Columbia, Effingham, Elbert, Franklin, Habersham, Hart, Lincoln, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, and Stephens in Georgia; and Cleveland, Gaston, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Mecklenburg, Polk, Rutherford and Transylvania in North Carolina.

Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include strengthening structures to protect against high wind damage, upgrading to wind rated garage doors, and installing a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage.

"One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage," said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. "I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans."

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.25% for PNPs, and 2.813% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

With the changes to FEMA’s Sequence of Delivery, survivors are now encouraged to simultaneously apply for FEMA grants and the SBA low-interest disaster loan assistance to fully recover. FEMA grants are intended to cover necessary expenses and serious needs not paid by insurance or other sources. The SBA disaster loan program is designed for your long-term recovery, to make you whole and get you back to your pre-disaster condition.

To apply online, visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is April 27, 2025. ]]>Wed, 19 Feb 2025 20:13:01 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/ggef-to-award-1000-scholarshipsThe Greater Greer Education Foundation (GGEF) is pleased to announce the opening of its 2025 scholarship application period, offering financial assistance to graduating high school seniors in the greater Greer area pursuing higher education at a South Carolina technical college in the amount of $1,000 per scholarship.

​“We’re excited to support students as they chase their goals, further their education, and ultimately bring valuable expertise back into our community,” said Katie Collins, President/CEO of the Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce.
Scholarship Details

• Eligibility
  • Must attend a high school in the greater Greer, SC area (Blue Ridge, Riverside, Greer, Byrnes, Bonds Career Center, Greer Middle College Charter High) or be homeschooled within the greater Greer area.
  • Be a high school senior or graduating within the next 12 months.
  • Must have been accepted at an SC technical college.
  • Higher education must begin in the next 12 months from the receipt of scholarship.
• Application Process: Interested students must complete the online application form.
• Deadline: Applications must be submitted by EOD Monday, March 17th, 2025.

"The Greater Greer Education Foundation is proud to invest in our students' futures through these scholarships," said Monica Barnett, GGEF Chair. "By supporting education, we strengthen our community and create opportunities for local talent to thrive."

How to Apply: Students can apply at www.greerchamber.com/greatergreereducationfoundation.html or through via direct link 2025 Scholarship Application.

​For any questions or additional information, please contact info@greerchamber.com.

Founded in 2009, the Greater Greer Education Foundation has continuously invested in the local community, helping students gain the education and skills needed to build successful careers and enhance the quality of life in the greater Greer area

About the Greater Greer Education Foundation
The Greater Greer Education Foundation supports local students and educators through scholarships and grants. By investing in education, the Foundation strengthens the community and empowers future generations. ​
]]>Tue, 11 Feb 2025 16:34:05 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/20th-annual-oyster-roastThe Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 20th Annual Oyster Roast presented by Presented by Cypress Internal Medicine–Greer, will be held on Friday, February 21st. Guests will enjoy fresh oysters, BBQ, a shrimp boil, live music, and great company at this community tradition. In addition, guests can participate in a silent auction to benefit Leadership Greer Class 45’s class project, Healthy Kids.

Event Details:
• Date: Friday, February 21st
• Time: 6 PM – 9 PM • Location: 1840 South Hwy 14, Ste C, Greer, SC 29650
• Ticket Information: Tickets are $60 and may be purchased online at Greerchamber.com or by calling 864.877.3131 before EOD February 17th.

For more information about the event, ticket purchases, or sponsorship opportunities, please visit the Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce website at www.greerchamber.com or contact the Chamber office at (864) 877 - 3131. 

About Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce:
​The Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting economic development and improving the quality of life in the greater Greer area. Through advocacy, events, and programs, the Chamber supports local businesses and fosters a vibrant community.
]]>Mon, 27 Jan 2025 16:04:45 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/2025-board-of-directorsGreater Greer Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 Board of Directors Greer, SC – January 27, 2025 – The Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce its 2025 Board of Directors. This accomplished group of leaders will steer the Chamber’s initiatives to support the business community and foster growth throughout the greater Greer area.

“As we welcome the 2025 Board of Directors, I am excited about the passion, expertise, and dedication this team brings to the table. Together, we will continue to champion the business community, driving innovation and fostering meaningful connections that strengthen our local economy. I look forward to seeing the incredible impact we will achieve in the year ahead," said Katie Collins, President/CEO of the Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce.

2025 Board of Directors
Chair Blair Miller Pinnacle Financial Partners
Chair Elect Kevin Duncan Countybank
Immd. Past Chair Mark Hopper Hopper Financial
Director Monica Barnett Coldwell Banker Caine
Vice Chair, Finance Jim Boyd Park National Bank
General Counsel Evan Bramhall Duggan & Hughes Law, LLC
Director Wayne Davis Medical Group of the Carolinas
Director Inez Hannon Prisma Health Greer Memorial Hospital
Director Alan Jones Michelin North America, Inc.
Director Mark King King Consulting
Director Daniel Lovelace Barista Alley
Director Brandon Punch Century 3, Inc.
Director Caroline Robertson Greer Relief & Resources Agency, Inc.
Director Rob Safrit Family Dental Health
Director Donna Smith Berkshire Hathaway C. Dan Joyner Realtors
Director April Staggs United Bank
Director Chris Taylor USC Upstate
Director Willie Thompson Greenville Technical College
Director Tom Tyra Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport
Director Myra Whiten Pelham Medical Center

For more information about the Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce and its programs, please visit www.greerchamber.com/board-of-directors.html.

About Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce:
The Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting economic development and improving the quality of life in the greater Greer area. Through advocacy, events, and programs, the Chamber supports local businesses and fosters a vibrant community. ]]>Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:51:13 GMThttps://www.greerchamber.com/blog/lg-45-healthy-kids-class-projectLeadership Greer Class 45 Announces "Healthy Kids" Project to Support Youth Nutrition and Local Farmers

Greer, SC – 12/12/24 – Leadership Greer Class 45 is excited to announce the launch of its class project, “Healthy Kids,” a community initiative aimed at promoting healthy eating habits among children in the greater Greer area. This project, in partnership with the Greer Farmers Market, will provide children with greater access to fresh, locally grown produce and create a fun, educational environment that encourages them to try and enjoy fruits and vegetables.

"The Greer Farmers Market is honored to be chosen for Leadership Greer Class 45's project that will initiate our new Healthy Kids Program and are excited to see the positive impact that this program will have on our youth and our farms in the Upstate,” said Maggie Blair, Executive Director of the Greer Farmers Market.

The project fosters healthy habits among children but also supports the local farming community in a meaningful way.

“We believe that by promoting healthy eating habits among the next generation, we are investing in a healthier, more vibrant future for the entire Greer community,” said Dustin Merritt, President of Leadership Greer Class 45. “The Healthy Kids program benefits not only the children it serves but also supports local farmers who dedicate themselves to providing fresh, nutritious produce for our community."

Healthy Kids Project Overview: The "Healthy Kids" program makes healthy eating fun and accessible for local youth. Children receive vouchers to redeem for fresh, seasonal produce at any of the 27 participating Greer Farmers Market locations throughout the market year. At the market booth, kids can sample produce to explore new flavors before deciding what to buy.

​A designated "Healthy Kids" tent and signage at each market serve as hubs for voucher distribution and interactive lessons on food and gardening. Hands-on activities encourage kids to continue learning about healthy eating and growing food at home.

Building a Healthier Community: "Healthy Kids" not only promotes nutrition but also supports local farmers. Each redeemed voucher boosts sales, strengthening the local agricultural economy. The program complements other market food access initiatives, like SNAP and Healthy Bucks, expanding awareness and access to nutritious food for families in the community.

The project is set to launch at the start of the Greer Farmers Market's upcoming season, and Leadership Greer Class 45 invites families across the area to participate, enjoy, and benefit from this unique opportunity.

For more information on Leadership Greer Class 45’s “Healthy Kids” project, please contact chanel@greerchamber.com or call (864)877 -3131.

​About Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce:
The Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting economic development and improving the quality of life in the Greater Greer area. Through advocacy, events, and programs, the Chamber supports local businesses and fosters a vibrant community.]]>