The formation of committees below is intended to advance economic development, help create jobs, and improve the community as a better place in which to live and work....these are standing committees. Special committees and sub-committees will be appointed as needed.

If you are interested in serving on a committee please contact the Sparks Chamber of Commerce at (775) 358-1976 All members are encouraged to participate in our community. Committee participation is a great way to give back to the community, develop strong networking opportunities, and build lasting relationships.

BIZ FLASH
Chairwoman: Kathy Carrico/784-6879, Nevada Small Business Development
 The monthly “insights” will address issues relevant to business owners, corporate executives, support staff and/or government employees.  The mix of topics are diverse because the goals are to address the needs of the entire membership through business education. No cost.

BIZ TALK BLENDER
Chairwoman: Kathy Carrico/784-6879, Nevada Small Business Development
 Join successful local business owners for an energizing and engaging networking event.  Minimal cost.

BUSINESS FORUM COMMITTEE
Co-Chairs: Jim McClenahan/784-4582, University of Nevada Extended Studies; Mike Draper/323-1611, R& R Partners
Annual Business Forum featuring National known speakers, breakout sessions & trade-fair This seminar addresses issues and provides informational tools important to local business today.

BUSINESS EDUCATION SKILLS TRAINING COMMITTEE (B.E.S.T.) Chairwoman:  Shera Alberti-Annunzio/784-4046, University of Nevada, Reno-Extended Studies

Promotes career opportunities, helps to develop and maintain skill training programs employers need.  Works with enhancing basic skills and work habits in the existing workforce and supporting education programs for youth and adults.

DESAYUNO “breakfast business meeting”

Chairwoman: Nancy Rodriguez/332-9536, Micrometal
 Monthly free seminars geared toward helping Hispanic entrepreneurs start new ventures or strengthen existing ones. These seminars are of great value and a great educational tool to help in the success of every business.
Acompáñenos a nuestro ‘Desayuno’ junta de negocio mensual de la Cámara de Sparks/ Cadena de Negocios Hispanos. Estos seminarios están diseñados especialmente para ayudar a empresarios Hispanos quienes deseen empezar un negocio nuevo o fortalecer su negocio existente.  Estos seminarios ofrecen un gran valor tanto educacional como informativo para que usted tenga éxito en sus negocios

GOLF TOURNAMENT COMMITTEES

Co-Chairs: Frank Lawrence/356-7755, Amy’s Flowers; Jesus Gutierrez/322-6866, Fresh Mex
Yearly golf tournament usually held in August or September.

Fiesta Golf: Yearly golf tournament usually held in August or September

LATINO EDUCATION FOUNDATION OF NORTHERN NEVADA

Chamber Representative: Frank Peralta/334-3302, City of Reno
Provide scholarships to high school Latino students who are planning on going to an accredited college, university
 or trade school.

NEW BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS FOR SPANISH-SPEAKING ENTREPRENEURS AND SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS

The Sparks Chamber, in partnership with the Nevada Small Business Development Center and Wells Fargo Bank provides monthly small business orientation classes, in Spanish, the last Friday of every month from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at U.S. Bank located at 301 Vassar St., Reno. 
One on one business counseling ordered every Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and Fridays from noon – 2:00 p.m.  Appointments required for this service.  Provided on a confidential basis, free of cost. 

ON P.A.C.E. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Chairman: Jeffrey Benjamin/337-1600, Breakthrough Training
 This powerful 9 month course is designed to meet the demanding needs of today's business professional. Our Leadership committee worked tirelessly for months analyzing Leadership programs from across the country. This exhaustive analysis was designed with one focus in mind, build the most robust Leadership program Northern Nevada has ever seen. The focus was based around core training modules that inspire students to expand on previous knowledge but also develop strong leadership skillsets that are mandatory in today's business climate.

LATIN AMERICAN FESTIVAL

This is an annual Latin American Festival and Andres is the liaison for lending support by the Sparks Chamber.

LUNCHEON/MIXER COMMITTEE

Chairwoman: Lynn Tackman/358-1976, Sparks Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber has numerous mixers every month and/or a  luncheon.

MARKETING COMMITTEE
Chairman: Mike Draper/323-1611, R & R Advertising
Reviews and coordinates marketing and public relations for the Sparks Chamber.

RECOGNITION DINNER
Chairman: Bob Donovan/785-5534,  AAA
Annual recognition dinner held in January to recognize and award the previous year’s outstanding Chamber members via different categories.

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS COMMITTEE
Chairwoman: Megan Kiley/323-0837, Kiley Ranch Communities
 Six $500 Scholarships are awarded annually to deserving students that attend the three Sparks’ high schools

SPECIAL TRIPS
Chairwoman: Megan Kiley//megkiley@aol.com.
Special trips are organized for Sparks Chamber members and their families.  Past trips include China and future trip tentatively planned: Greek Isles

STAR SPANGLED SPARKS:
Chairman: Johnny Jarolik/356-5003, Wal-Mart Distribution Center
Annual Fourth of July event held at the Sparks Marina.  A fun family event.

MODEL DAIRY MILK CARTON BOAT REGATTA SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE STAR SPANGLED SPARKS COMMITTEE:

WELCOMING COMMITTEE
Chairman: Edward Woo/356-2350, U.S. Bank
Attends ceremonies, luncheons, mixers, etc., to meet and greet new members and current members.  The group are our ambassadors to create good will. This group also makes new members feel welcome at Chamber functions.