Bastrop Chamber of Commerce – Part III: Chamber U

Chamber Blog – Part 3

Chamber U: Learning, Listening, and Leaning to a new community,

Today I attended Chamber U with the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce. There were over thirteen members in attendance, creating a welcoming and engaged atmosphere for my first in-person U session.

The presentation was led by Becki Womble, President/CEO, who delivered the Chamber U overview with clarity, professionalism, and warmth. She provided a comprehensive explanation of Chamber benefits, upcoming opportunities, and ways members can integrate more deeply into the local business community.

A small but meaningful moment stood out to me, she recognized me as the person who had recently sent her a Facebook friend request. That acknowledgment felt thoughtful and personal. It reinforced what I’m beginning to see clearly: the Chamber is relational.

Becki emphasized the importance of attending Live After Five networking events, describing them as one of the best ways to connect directly with fellow members and expand visibility within the Bastrop business community. That is an event I plan to attend soon.

Community & Advocacy

Meagan Webb joined shortly after the meeting and spoke passionately about involvement and volunteer opportunities. Her enthusiasm was evident, particularly when she discussed the Children's Advocacy Center of Bastrop, Lee & Fayette Counties. Her emotional connection to the program made an impression on me. It is something I would genuinely like to learn more about.
She also encouraged members to participate in events and advocacy efforts. Her message was clear: involvement creates connection.

Jacki Gabryshak, Director of Membership, shared additional upcoming events not yet listed on the public calendar, including a “Meet Your Ambassador” gathering. Since my assigned Ambassador is Jenny, I look forward to attending and connecting with her personally.

During introductions, each attendee shared their business, how long they’ve been a member, and how long they’ve been in the area. I introduced myself as a Realtor serving Bastrop and Cedar Creek. My family and I relocated here at the end of October, and although we are still unpacking, I am fully committed to building relationships and working locally as an agent with Realty Texas.
The introductions felt natural. The room was engaged. The environment was comfortable.

I connected with:
A fellow Realtor from eXp who has also returned to the area.
A husband-and-wife team who own a local electrical business serving Bastrop County.
Jenna Hill with BESTEX Roofing & Remodeling, expanding into Bastrop County.
As a Realtor, these connections are valuable. Reliable electricians, roofing professionals, and remodelers are essential resources for clients.

We exchanged business cards and contact information.

One program that truly sparked my interest was the Chamber’s “Making Lemonade” initiative, a model designed to introduce children to entrepreneurship and business ownership.
That resonated with me.
The concept of teaching children how to start small, perhaps with a lemonade stand or even a food truck concept, and understand ownership at an early age is powerful.

The idea of guiding young people toward owning their own business, and eventually property, aligns with long-term economic empowerment.
I would like to explore that program further.

As with any first meeting, there was a lot of information to absorb. Early morning, 8:30 sharp, coffee available. (Though I will admit — a donut or cookie might have been a welcome addition.)
Overall, it was a strong first in-person Chamber U experience.

I left with:
A clearer understanding of membership benefits
New business connections
Interest in advocacy and youth programs
Motivation to attend future events
The information flowed easily. The leadership was welcoming. The members were engaged.

I look forward to continuing to build relationships within the Bastrop Chamber community and becoming more involved in the months ahead.

Thank you to everyone who participated and to Ms. Womble for delivering such an informative and gracious presentation.

This is just the beginning.

“Success isn’t built by doing everything. It’s built by mastering your craft, committing to your purpose, and staying consistent until it means something to you. If you love it, that’s enough.”

- Veronica Wells
Realtor | Bastrop & Cedar Creek